The best walks and hikes around Leith Central
4.6
(142)
2,397
hikers
70
hikes
Hiking around Leith Central offers a blend of urban and natural environments, serving as a gateway to Edinburgh's network of waterside paths, city parks, and prominent hills. The area is characterized by the Water of Leith Walkway, which provides a continuous path through the city, and access to trails within Holyrood Park. Terrain varies from flat, paved paths along the river to steeper, more rugged ascents on the city's volcanic hills.
Best hiking trails around Leith Central
- The most popular…
Last updated: April 23, 2026
4.8
(81)
869
hikers
11.2km
03:05
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
235
hikers
8.61km
02:20
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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72
hikers
2.95km
00:47
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(7)
81
hikers
11.4km
03:07
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
77
hikers
3.83km
01:04
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
It's actually a well! It was once believed that the water here had healing powers and could cure arthritis and poor eyesight. Another fun fact: the well is mentioned in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. Either way, it's a beautiful spot by the river and a little different, a place that not everyone knows about yet.
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Part of the axis from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace. It's worth walking the entire route.
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just a quiet place, memory off Susannah Alice Stephen
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When you are in Edinburgh you automatically come to the High Street. :)
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One of the most picturesque streets in Edinburgh's Old Town is Victoria Street. This street begins at the eastern end of the Grassmarket as West Bow, which was the original name for this historic thoroughfare. This route was originally the main route into Edinburgh for tourists arriving from the north, west or south-west of the city. The zigzagging of the hill made the route more accessible to horse-drawn vehicles that would not have been able to navigate the much narrower lanes or the Royal Mile. The buildings along the road indicate how the structures in the city spread upwards as the city colonised the full length of the hillside. One of these buildings (with a confectioner's shop at street level) is an original 16th century building, in the traditional 'built' style of pieces of gutter stone, with individual pieces of stone fitted together like a jigsaw puzzle. Most of the buildings along the road have been recently rebuilt or developed, but look for the dates 1616 and 1720 above some of the old doorways near the lower end of the street. https://www.edinburghexpert.com/blog/edinburghs-victoria-street-and-west-bow
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Victoria Street, a picturesque and winding cobbled lane, is one of Edinburgh’s most iconic thoroughfares. Named after Queen Victoria, it exudes a timeless charm that resonates with locals and visitors alike. With its colourful facades and unique shops, the street showcases Edinburgh’s architectural diversity and historical heritage. Victoria Street was designed by architect Thomas Hamilton, one of the leading lights in transforming the city with neoclassical buildings and influenced by ancient Greek architecture. However, it was stipulated that the buildings associated with the new street should be ‘old Flemish’ in style and take inspiration from the details of Heriot’s Hospital. https://ewh.org.uk/victoria-street/
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any good circular walks starting near Leith?
Yes, the area is well-suited for circular walks. While many routes follow the Water of Leith out-and-back, you can easily combine paths through parks and city streets to create a loop. For a straightforward loop that offers great city views, consider the View of Edinburgh Old Town – Scott Monument loop from Edinburgh. Many walkers also create their own loops by connecting parts of the Water of Leith Walkway with paths through areas like Stockbridge or Dean Village.
What are the best family-friendly walking trails around Leith?
Leith Links is an excellent choice for families. It's a large, open grassy park with plenty of space for kids to run around. The paths are flat and easy to navigate. For a short and engaging walk, the Artisan Coffee – McNaughtan's Bookshop loop from Edinburgh is a simple city stroll suitable for all ages.
Can I take my dog on the hiking trails?
Most outdoor paths and parks around Leith are dog-friendly, but it's best to keep them on a lead, especially in busy areas or near wildlife. The Water of Leith Walkway and Leith Links are popular spots for dog walkers. Always be prepared to clean up after your pet to keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.
How can I get to the main hiking areas using public transport?
Edinburgh's public transport network makes it easy to access trails from Leith. Numerous Lothian Buses routes run from Leith to the city centre, providing access to Holyrood Park for Arthur's Seat. The Edinburgh Trams also offer a convenient way to reach trailheads further into the city, connecting Leith with areas closer to the Water of Leith Walkway's central sections.
What is the terrain like for hiking around Leith Central?
The terrain is quite varied. You'll find flat, paved paths along the Water of Leith Walkway and through city parks like Leith Links, which are perfect for easy strolls. For a more challenging hike, the trails in Holyrood Park leading up to Arthur's Seat are steep, rocky, and can be muddy after rain, requiring sturdy footwear.
Are there any easy walks suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. There are about 50 easy-rated walks in the area. A great starting point is the Water of Leith Walkway, which is mostly flat and well-maintained. You can walk any section of it for as long or as short as you like. Leith Links also offers very easy, flat paths in a pleasant park setting.
What are some popular places for hiking near Leith Central?
Hikers in the area have several favorite spots. The Water of Leith Walkway is a highly regarded path that offers a peaceful escape through the city. Leith Links is a large, historic park perfect for leisurely walks. For a more rugged experience, the trails within Holyrood Park, especially the ascent of Arthur's Seat, are a major draw for those seeking incredible city views.
What do other hikers think of the routes around Leith Central?
The routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique mix of urban exploration and natural scenery, particularly the peaceful atmosphere along the Water of Leith Walkway and the stunning panoramic views from the top of Arthur's Seat.
Are there any coastal walks accessible from Leith?
Yes, from Leith you can easily access the coastline. A popular route is to walk east towards Portobello, with its long sandy beach and promenade. Alternatively, you can head west from the Port of Leith, following paths towards Newhaven Harbour and Granton, enjoying views across the Firth of Forth.
How long is the Water of Leith Walkway?
The entire Water of Leith Walkway runs for about 13 miles (21 km) through Edinburgh. However, you don't need to walk the whole thing. It's easy to access the path at many different points, allowing for shorter walks that can last from thirty minutes to several hours, depending on the section you choose.
Where can I find the best views on a walk near Leith?
For the most dramatic, panoramic views of the entire city, the summit of Arthur's Seat in Holyrood Park is unmatched. For a different but equally beautiful perspective, Calton Hill offers iconic views of the city skyline. Along the Water of Leith Walkway, you'll find charming, picturesque scenes, especially around the historic Dean Village.
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