Leith and Surrounds

To the northeast of Edinburgh city centre is the up-and-coming area, Leith. Leith is an eclectic mix of a heritage site with an historic port and cobbled streets, lively new developments and some of the best places to eat in the city. All this mixed with some run down areas that are left over from Leiths grim history from the 1920's to 1980's creates and interesting place to visit.

Since the 80's Leith has gone from strength to strength. Despite being the rather bleak setting for several of Irvine Welsh's novels it has become a place with a lot to offer the traveller. Aside from having some of the best restaurants (namely seafood) in the area it has a very grand dock development and the spectacle of the Britannia, moored next to the Terence Conran designed Ocean Terminal shopping and entertainment centre. The Britannia is one of the world’s most famous ships and audio tours are on offer providing an interesting insight into the lives of the royal family.

To the West of Leith sits the village of Newhaven. The harbour is worth a visit as a peek into Scottish life and the Newhaven Heritage Museum holds various collections including costumes.