Leith

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Leith's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a charming café along Leith Walk, where you can enjoy freshly baked pastries and a cup of artisanal coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll along the Water of Leith, soaking in the serene views and the sounds of nature. As you walk, keep an eye out for local wildlife and the picturesque architecture that lines the riverbanks.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the Royal Yacht Britannia, where you can explore the history of this former royal floating palace. After touring the yacht, enjoy lunch at the nearby Ocean Terminal, where you can indulge in fresh seafood while overlooking the harbor. Spend your afternoon browsing the shops and galleries in the area, soaking in the vibrant arts scene of Leith.

evening
:

As evening falls, make your way to one of Leith's renowned gastropubs for a delightful dinner, sampling local dishes made from fresh, seasonal ingredients. After dinner, take a relaxing walk along the waterfront, enjoying the views of the sun setting over the harbor. End your day with a nightcap at a local bar, perhaps trying a unique Scottish whisky.

day 2
Culinary Delights and Food Market
morning
:

Start your morning with a visit to a local bakery for some freshly baked scones paired with clotted cream and jam, a true Scottish treat. After savoring your breakfast, head to the Leith Farmers' Market, held every Saturday, to explore stalls filled with local produce and artisanal goods. Engage with friendly vendors and sample delicious treats as you wander through the market.

afternoon
:

After the market, join a cooking class that focuses on traditional Scottish cuisine, where you'll learn to prepare classic dishes like haggis or Cullen skink. Enjoy a hearty lunch during the class, made from the ingredients you've prepared, while sharing stories with fellow food lovers. Post-lunch, explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Leith, taking time to enjoy the street art and unique local shops.

evening
:

In the evening, treat yourself to a culinary experience at one of Leith's Michelin-starred restaurants, where seasonal ingredients are transformed into exquisite dishes. Savor each course while enjoying a carefully curated wine pairing that complements your meal. After dinner, stroll along the waterfront, perhaps stopping for dessert at a nearby ice cream shop.

day 3
Art and Culture Exploration
morning
:

Begin your day at the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, located just a short distance from Leith, to immerse yourself in contemporary artwork. Take your time exploring the outdoor sculptures and impressive collections housed within the gallery. Enjoy a light breakfast at the gallery café, where the atmosphere is as inspiring as the art.

afternoon
:

After your morning at the gallery, return to Leith and visit the Leith School of Art, where you can view exhibitions from local artists and even participate in a workshop. Spend the afternoon discovering the rich cultural history of Leith at the Leith Museum, which showcases the area's maritime heritage. Don't miss the opportunity to chat with local artists and curators about their work and inspiration.

evening
:

As evening approaches, attend a performance at the nearby Edinburgh Playhouse, which often features a variety of shows from musicals to concerts. Before the show, enjoy dinner at a nearby eatery, sampling a fusion of traditional Scottish and modern cuisine. After the performance, consider visiting a local pub for some live music and a warm atmosphere.

day 4
Outdoor Adventures Along the Shore
morning
:

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading to the beach at Portobello, just a short bus ride from Leith. Spend your morning walking along the sandy shore or enjoying some beach games like frisbee or beach volleyball. The fresh sea breeze and stunning views of the Firth of Forth will invigorate your spirit.

afternoon
:

After your beach activities, indulge in a seaside lunch at one of the many fish and chip shops, where you can savor freshly caught seafood. Spend the afternoon cycling along the promenade or renting a kayak to explore the coastal waters. If you're feeling adventurous, consider trying stand-up paddleboarding, an exhilarating way to enjoy the sea.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head back to Leith and treat yourself to a relaxed dinner at a seafood restaurant, where you can indulge in the freshest catch of the day. Enjoy the views of the harbor while dining, and consider pairing your meal with a local craft beer. End your day with a tranquil walk along the waterfront, reflecting on your outdoor adventures.

day 5
Historical Landmarks and Walking Tours
morning
:

Start your day with a guided walking tour of Leith, focusing on the area’s rich history and its importance as a port town. Visit significant landmarks, including the Leith Links, where golf is said to have originated. Enjoy hearing fascinating stories from your guide about the local culture and notable figures from Leith's past.

afternoon
:

For lunch, stop at a traditional pub where you can sample some local ales and hearty Scottish fare. Continue your exploration in the afternoon by visiting Trinity House, an 18th-century building that serves as a maritime museum, showcasing Leith's seafaring history. Spend some time in the museum's gardens, perfect for relaxation and reflection.

evening
:

As the evening sets in, enjoy a casual dinner at a cozy bistro, where you can try some traditional Scottish dishes infused with modern twists. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll to the nearby Shore area, known for its beautiful waterfront and historic buildings. Cap off the night with a visit to a local whisky bar, where you can sample a variety of Scotch whiskies.

day 6
Local Breweries and Distilleries Tour
morning
:

Kick off your day with breakfast at a local café, fueling up for a day filled with delicious beverages. After breakfast, head to a nearby brewery for a tour, where you’ll learn about the beer-making process and the craft behind local ales. Engage with the brewers and sample a variety of beers to get a taste of what Leith has to offer.

afternoon
:

For lunch, enjoy a meal at the brewery's restaurant or a nearby pub, pairing your food with some of the local beers you've just sampled. In the afternoon, continue your beverage journey by visiting a local distillery, where you can discover the art of whisky distillation. Participate in a tasting session, learning about the different flavor profiles and production methods.

evening
:

As evening approaches, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that specializes in farm-to-table cuisine, showcasing the best of local produce. After dinner, return to the brewery for a special event or tasting session that often features live music or local entertainment. Wind down your day with a nightcap at the distillery, reflecting on the flavors and experiences of the day.

day 7
Family-Friendly Activities and Fun
morning
:

Start your family-friendly day with a hearty breakfast at a café that caters to kids, offering a variety of options for all ages. After breakfast, head to the nearby Leith Links park, where children can play in the open spaces and enjoy the playground facilities. Engage in some family games like frisbee or a picnic while soaking in the fresh air.

afternoon
:

After a fun morning at the park, visit the local aquarium, where kids can marvel at various marine life and interactive exhibits. Spend your afternoon exploring the sights, perhaps taking a boat tour that provides a unique view of the waterfront and local landmarks. Stop for a casual lunch at a family-friendly restaurant, ensuring there's something for everyone on the menu.

evening
:

As the evening sets in, enjoy a relaxed dinner at a pizzeria or burger joint that welcomes families, allowing for a fun and casual atmosphere. After dinner, consider visiting an ice cream shop for a sweet treat to end the day on a high note. Wind down with a stroll along the waterfront, sharing favorite moments from the day.

day 8
Shopping and Local Markets
morning
:

Begin your day with a breakfast at a quaint café in Leith, where you can enjoy locally sourced ingredients. After breakfast, visit the local shops and boutiques that line the streets of Leith, perfect for finding unique souvenirs and gifts. Take your time exploring and chatting with shop owners about their crafts and products.

afternoon
:

For lunch, stop at a local deli, where you can grab a quick bite and enjoy the bustling atmosphere. Spend your afternoon at the nearby Ocean Terminal, where you can explore more shops and perhaps catch a movie at the cinema. Don’t forget to check out the local artisan markets that often pop up in the area, showcasing handmade goods and crafts.

evening
:

As the evening approaches, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that emphasizes local flavors, allowing you to indulge in a true taste of Scotland. After dinner, return to the shops for any last-minute purchases or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere of Leith at night. Consider visiting a local bar for a final drink and to reflect on a day filled with shopping adventures.

Discover Leith

Read more in our Leith 2025 Travel Guide.

Leith Travel Guide