Top reasons to visit Leith
- Stunning Waterfront: Leith boasts a picturesque waterfront, perfect for leisurely strolls and scenic views.
- Cultural Attractions: Explore a variety of museums and galleries that highlight Leith's rich heritage.
- Delicious Local Cuisine: Indulge in the vibrant gastronomic scene with a range of eateries and pubs.
- Welcoming Accommodation: Enjoy a selection of hotels and guesthouses that cater to diverse travellers, including pet-friendly options.
- Proximity to Edinburgh: Leith serves as an ideal base for exploring the historic capital and its charming streets.
Find great hotels near Leith
Discover a range of delightful accommodation options in Leith, Edinburgh, perfect for every traveller. Whether you prefer a hotel or guesthouse, you'll find welcoming spaces that cater to LGBTQIA guests and are pet-friendly. Experience the charm of Leith while enjoying top-notch services tailored for business and leisure stays alike. Book your ideal getaway in one of the finest Edinburgh hotels today.
- Apex Grassmarket Hotel: The Apex Grassmarket Hotel boasts a distinctive charm with its vibrant location overlooking the historic Grassmarket area. This 4-star hotel, rated highly by guests, is ideal for business travellers and eco-conscious visitors alike. With its eco-certification, the hotel prides itself on environmentally friendly practices. Guests appreciate the modern amenities, including a restaurant and bar that serves delicious local cuisine, and a fitness centre for those looking to maintain their workout routine. Its proximity to both the city centre and Leith makes it a convenient option for exploring Edinburgh's attractions.
- ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile: A welcoming 3-star hotel, the ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile stands out for its pet-friendly policies and eco-certification. With a guest rating that reflects its quality service, this hotel is perfect for those travelling with furry companions, offering amenities such as food and water bowls. The hotel's contemporary design and relaxed atmosphere complement its strategic location just a short distance from both the Royal Mile and Leith. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms and a lively bar area, making it a great base for exploring the city.
- Apex Waterloo Place Hotel: The Apex Waterloo Place Hotel blends elegance with modern convenience, earning a top guest rating among its 4-star peers. This eco-certified property caters to families and business travellers, featuring amenities tailored for children, like breakfast options at a fee. Located near the city centre and only a short journey from Leith, guests enjoy spacious rooms, a fitness centre, and an on-site restaurant providing a range of dining options. Its commitment to sustainability and family-friendly services make it a standout choice for those looking to explore Edinburgh.
Where to stay near Leith
Leith, a vibrant neighbourhood in Edinburgh, offers a delightful blend of history and culture, perfect for family-friendly vacations. Explore its picturesque waterfront, indulge in local gastronomy, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the friendly locals. This idyllic location on the edge of Scotland is your gateway to the breathtaking capital, with its charming streets and rich heritage waiting to be discovered just a stone's throw away.
- Edinburgh: As a vibrant metropolis, Edinburgh is rich in history and culture, with Leith sitting proudly as one of its districts. This bustling city welcomes travellers year-round, with peak visitor numbers from July to September. Edinburgh offers a plethora of experiences, from shopping and theatre to exploring its historic sites such as the iconic castle and ancient streets. Whether you're indulging in local cuisine or wandering through its charming alleys, Edinburgh promises a memorable city-themed experience that caters to families and culture enthusiasts alike.
- Old Town Edinburgh: Located approximately 3km from Leith, Old Town Edinburgh is a captivating neighbourhood steeped in history. Known for its medieval architecture, it attracts visitors throughout the year, especially during the bustling months of April and July. Here, you'll find a lively atmosphere filled with shops, theatres, and educational venues. The cobbled streets lead to historic landmarks and conference venues, offering a unique blend of culture and family-friendly activities. Old Town is perfect for those seeking a taste of the city's rich heritage and vibrant community.
- Edinburgh City Centre: Just 3km from Leith, Edinburgh City Centre is the heart of the city, where modern life meets historical charm. This neighbourhood sees a steady flow of tourists, particularly from July to September. Visitors flock here for its dynamic shopping areas, theatres, and cultural events. The city's historic places and symbolic landmarks are within easy reach, making it an ideal spot for families and culture seekers. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the bustling streets, soaking in the atmosphere of one of Scotland's most iconic locations.
Things to do near Leith
Shopping
In Leith, visit the Ocean Terminal for a variety of shops, including high street and unique boutiques. For a more local experience, explore Leith Market, where you can find handmade crafts and artisanal goods, perfect for gifts and souvenirs.
Recreation
Explore the tranquil surroundings of Leith’s Water of Leith Walkway for a peaceful stroll along the river. Unwind at the Leith Spa, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and therapies designed to refresh your mind and body, enhancing your overall well-being.
Adventure
At Knockhill Racing Circuit, located 27km from Leith, thrill-seekers can immerse themselves in the adrenaline of motor racing. Experience high-speed track days, driving experiences, and exhilarating events that capture the vibrant spirit of motorsport in a stunning Scottish landscape.
Nightlife
In Leith, the vibrant atmosphere comes alive at The Shore, where trendy bars and restaurants line the waterfront. For a lively pub scene, head to The Port O'Leith, known for its craft beers and friendly vibe. The Bongo Club offers eclectic music and a spirited dance floor, perfect for a fun night out.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Leith
To save money on your trip to Leith, consider visiting between January and March, when accommodation prices are lower. Booking a hotel about a month in advance can help secure better deals, particularly if you check platforms like Expedia for last-minute offers. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia’s search tools to filter by budget and hotel category. Additionally, combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can provide further savings, allowing you to enjoy your stay without overspending.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Leith are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Leith is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Leith is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Leith is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, choose your ideal location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels right at the top. Additionally, you can refine your options by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can economise by combining your hotel reservation in Leith with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Leith
Leith offers a delightful mix of family-friendly activities and cultural experiences, perfect for city-themed vacations. Visitors can explore the vibrant Leith waterfront, along with an array of museums and galleries that celebrate the area's rich heritage. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures or a taste of local culture, Leith provides a range of attractions to cater to all interests and make your visit memorable.
- Royal Mile: This historic street stretches through the heart of Edinburgh, connecting the Castle to the Palace. Experience the vibrant city atmosphere, with its eclectic mix of shops, street performers, and traditional Scottish pubs.
- St. Andrew Square: A beautifully landscaped square that blends city life with tranquil green spaces. Enjoy the serene surroundings, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic, while admiring the impressive architecture that frames this urban oasis.
- Palace of Holyroodhouse: The official residence of the Monarch in Scotland, this historic palace offers a glimpse into royal history. Explore the stunning gardens and opulent interiors that reflect the rich culture and heritage of Scotland.
Best time to go to Leith
The best time to visit Leith can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Leith falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Leith falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Leith
Flying into Leith, EDInburgh, is convenient with Edinburgh Airport (EDI) located 13km away. Notable hotels nearby include Crescent House and Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, both 11km from the airport, and the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, which is 10km away. For those considering alternative airports, Aberdeen Airport (ABZ) is 148km from Leith, with the Marcliffe Hotel just 10km from ABZ. Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK) is another option, situated 105km away, and nearby hotels include Marine Troon and Lochgreen House Hotel, both only 3km from the airport. Each hotel offers easy access to their respective airports, ensuring a smooth travel experience.