Leith Hotels

Leith – A Trendy Waterfront District in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a city brimming with history, culture, and charm, but Leith is the place to be if you want to experience a more vibrant, artsy side of the Scottish capital. Once an industrial port, Leith has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, evolving into one of the city's most exciting, trendy neighbourhoods.

I absolutely love spending my days off in Leith — it's my perfect little getaway. I often start by strolling along the riverbank, enjoying the peaceful views and the fresh air. After that, I head to my favourite café for a cappuccino. It's that cosy, local spot with the best vibes where I can sip my coffee and watch the world go by. Saturdays are also a treat, as I can visit the local market. It's got this incredible, buzzing energy with fresh produce, artisan goods, and delicious smells.

Have you seen the iconic 1996 film Trainspotting? Did you know that most of It was filmed in and around the Leith area?

For Trainspotting fans, staying in Leith offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the setting of one of the most iconic films in British cinema. You can visit the key locations, soak in the gritty yet vibrant atmosphere, and experience the area's transformation since the film's release.

Location:

Pros:

Vibrant, Trendy Atmosphere
The former slum has developed into a cool district. Leith has transformed remarkably from a once-industrial port to one of Edinburgh's most fashionable districts. You'll find a creative mix of contemporary bars, independent boutiques, and art galleries, making it perfect for those who enjoy a lively, eclectic environment.


Proximity to the Waterfront
If you love staying near water, Leith offers beautiful views of the docks, the Firth of Forth, and the Royal Yacht Britannia. Many accommodations overlook the water, making it an incredibly picturesque place to stay.

Great Food Scene 
Leith is known for its fantastic food scene, especially its seafood offerings. Numerous high-quality restaurants, cafés, and pubs are located here, many offering locally sourced ingredients. Some notable spots include The Kitchin (Michelin-starred) and the lively cafes along The Shore.

Less Tourist-Centric
While still close to central Edinburgh, Leith feels more local and less overrun with tourists than the city centre. This allows you to experience a more authentic, less commercialised side of Edinburgh while still within easy reach of the main attractions.

Good Public Transport Links
Leith is very well connected to the rest of Edinburgh by bus and tram, making it easy to get around. 

Quirky and Unique Accommodation Options
From boutique hotels to self-catering apartments with stunning views, Leith offers a range of accommodation choices that allow you to stay in characterful, stylish properties. It's an excellent place for those looking for something different from the city centre's traditional hotels.

Affordable accommodation
Yes, some hotels (with sea views) and guest apartments can be relatively expensive here, but you can also find good-value apartment accommodation here.

Cons:

Distance from Central Edinburgh
Leith is about 20-30 minutes from central Edinburgh by foot or a short bus ride. Daily walking to the city centre is too far, so you will probably have to use public transportation.

Limited Nightlife
Although Leith has some great bars and restaurants, it doesn't offer the same nightlife as the city centre. Leith is quieter after hours if you're looking for big clubs, bustling late-night venues, or a party atmosphere.

Industrial Areas
Though Leith has transformed significantly, pockets of the neighbourhood still have an industrial feel. These areas might not be as picturesque or charming, especially if you're staying in a more budget-friendly option.
Some accommodations might be in these less scenic spots, and if you walk to the hotel alone in the evening, some locals may try to make friends with you. This is one of the reasons why this part of the city is not my favourite in the evenings, and therefore I do not recommend it for families with children.

Less Iconic Attractions
While Leith is full of character, it doesn't have the same iconic landmarks that Edinburgh's Old Town or New Town boasts. The Royal Yacht Britannia is a major attraction, but Leith might feel a little removed for those who want to be right next to landmarks like Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, or Arthur's Seat.

Busier Streets
Leith Walk can get quite busy, especially during rush hours, with locals and tourists passing through. 

Potentially Higher Accommodation Prices
Depending on the time of year, accommodation near the seaside or good areas/streets can be just as expensive as staying closer to the city centre.

Accommodation Recommendations