Water of Leith Path

The Water of Leith Pathway is a stunning pathway that connects the west end of Edinburgh to Stockbridge. This beautiful and peaceful pathway connects the Dean Village and Stockbridge. Along the path, there’s plenty of greenery and a river to provide a calm and zen-like feeling, especially when there aren’t many people. However, there are times when groups of tourists come in, which may make the pathway feel a bit touristy. Overall, it’s a pretty stunning pathway that changes the pace of your travel.

🌿 My Walk Along the Water of Leith Path, Edinburgh Walking along the Water of Leith Path was a peaceful and scenic escape in the heart of Edinburgh. This 4.5-mile pedestrian and cycling path follows the historic Water of Leith river, connecting the city centre to Leith, passing through charming neighborhoods, parks, and landmarks like Dean Village, Stockbridge, and the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art. The path offers a mix of historic architecture, quaint bridges, flowing water, and lush greenery, making it perfect for walking, jogging, or photography. It’s a serene retreat from the busy streets while still being close to Edinburgh’s attractions. Visitor Tips: Wear comfortable shoes and carry water, as the path can be uneven in parts. Visit during daylight for safety and the best photos. Don’t miss the picturesque Dean Village section, one of the most photographed spots along the route. How to Reach: The path is accessible from multiple points, including Princes Street, Stockbridge, and Leith Walk, and is well-connected by local buses. Overall, the Water of Leith Path is a must-visit for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a relaxing stroll through Edinburgh’s scenic and historic riverside.

Nice walk, we caught 5he bus up to Colinton tunnel and walked back down all the way to the port. Best parts are Colinton tunnel to visitor centre and around Dean village if you want to just pick up the highlights.

Amazing experience, very pleasant walk with beautiful views on Water of Leith and greenery around. Very popular among locals and tourists.

Water of Leith Walkway – A green sanctuary through the heart of Edinburgh Walking along the Water of Leith feels like stepping into a different world – one where the noise of the city fades and nature quietly takes over. Winding its way through shaded paths, old stone bridges and gentle riverbanks, this walkway is a true urban escape. The highlight? Dean Village – a picture-perfect corner of Edinburgh that feels more like a timeless village tucked into the hills than part of a bustling capital. Cobblestone lanes, historic buildings, and the sound of water flowing through the valley – it’s a peaceful retreat in the middle of it all. Whether you walk the full route or just a short stretch, this place slows you down in the best possible way.

Gorgeous morning stroll (or run!) to escape the bustle of the city and enjoy the local greenery next to cool water. It does seem to get busier towards midday and beyond, but still worth the visit.

Stunning walk along the river. We often walk towards Balerno from the Water of Leith visitor center and it is absolutely beautiful! It takes you through beautiful woodland and then up through Colinton tunnel which is decorated with amazing murals - well worth a visit! This section of the walk also links to the popular cycle 75 route and the Union canal into Edinburgh. A perfect place to walk dogs, especially if they like going in and out of the river, and usually very quiet and peaceful despite it's popularity. Also great for trail running! The path gets busier the closer you get to Leith, Edinburgh and particularly Dean Village but it's equally as beautiful and well worth seeing Dean Village from the waters edge.

We didn’t walk along the whole path but only visited the Dean Village area, which I think is an absolute must if visiting Edinburgh for at least 3 days! An oasis in the middle of the city. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, breathe in some fresh air and feel like in a fairy tale for a while, don’t miss out on Dean Village!