Water of Leith Walkway

nature reserve · park gardens

Water of Leith Walkway

An outdoor nature-reserve in City of Edinburgh

Today: light rain · 16°C

A wet day — perfect for indoor exploration

  • Setting

    Outdoor

  • Entry

    Free / cheap

  • Who for

    Toddler-friendly · Ages 0–18+

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The Water of Leith Walkway is a 12-mile (19 km) public path that follows the River Leith from Balerno to Leith in Edinburgh. It passes through scenic woodlands, parks, and historic villages like Dean Village and Stockbridge, offering a peaceful escape from the city. Families will enjoy spotting wildlife (herons, dippers, kingfishers), waterfalls, and art installations. The path is mostly flat and well-maintained, suitable for buggies and children's bikes, though some sections can become muddy after rain. Highlights: Dean Village, the Water of Leith Visitor Centre, the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art grounds, and the Leith Shore. Ages: Suitable for all ages; toddlers can explore short stretches, older kids can walk or cycle longer distances. Facilities: Cafés and toilets at several points (e.g., Dean Village, Stockbridge, Leith). Benches and picnic spots along the way. Practical tips: Wear sturdy shoes; some sections have steps or narrow paths. Best on a dry day. Free and open year-round.

Water of Leith Walkway

What parents should know

The Water of Leith Walkway is a 12-mile (19 km) public path that follows the River Leith from Balerno to Leith in Edinburgh.

Family tips

Break the walk into manageable sections

The full 12-mile route is too long for most families. Start with shorter sections like Dean Village to Stockbridge, then explore other parts on different visits.

Buggy

Buggies work well on most of the path

The path is mostly flat and well-maintained, making it buggy-friendly. However, some sections have steps or narrow paths, so scout ahead if pushing a pram.

Weather

Check conditions after rain

Sections can become muddy after rain. Wear sturdy shoes and consider visiting on dry days if you have young children or a buggy.

Location and map

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