Leith Links Edinburgh
Historic parkland, once the site of the world's first golf course, now a vibrant community hub for recreation and relaxation.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blooming flowers, mild weather
Leith Links Edinburgh
Best Time
Blooming flowers, mild weather

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic parkland, once the site of the world's first golf course, now a vibrant community hub for recreation and relaxation.
"A great park for recreation, with a lively yet peaceful atmosphere and plenty of green space."
🚶♀️ Scenic Walks
Walk along the Firth of Forth to Portobello or explore the Water of Leith walkway.
☕ Coffee & Bites
Try Williams & Johnson for coffee or grab a wrap from Domenicos.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Links
Leith Links
Explore the expansive grassy area, once the site of the world's first golf course. Perfect for picnics and relaxation.

Community Croft & Cafe
Leith Community Croft & Farm Shop
Enjoy a coffee and scone in this baby-friendly spot, a peaceful haven away from crowds.

Playgrounds and Recreation
Leith Links
Discover newly built playgrounds for children and well-maintained tennis courts for a fun-filled day.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Open Space
Getting Around Leith
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Scenic Walks
Walk along the Firth of Forth to Portobello or explore the Water of Leith walkway.
☕ Coffee & Bites
Try Williams & Johnson for coffee or grab a wrap from Domenicos.
🎾 Affordable Tennis
Book a cheap tennis session at Leith Links Tennis Park for just £1/hour.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun
Enjoy the new playgrounds and vast open spaces for kids to play.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Scenic Walks
Walk along the Firth of Forth to Portobello or explore the Water of Leith walkway.
☕ Coffee & Bites
Try Williams & Johnson for coffee or grab a wrap from Domenicos.
🎾 Affordable Tennis
Book a cheap tennis session at Leith Links Tennis Park for just £1/hour.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun
Enjoy the new playgrounds and vast open spaces for kids to play.
🐶 Dog-Friendly
A great spot for dog walking with plenty of open space.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Leith Links is a beloved large, open park praised for its recreational opportunities, from dog walking and children's play to tennis and picnics. Visitors appreciate its historical significance as the former site of the world's first golf course and its vibrant community atmosphere, including a farmers market and a community garden. Some note the ongoing development of amenities like permanent public toilets.
"Said to be the home of the original golf course, 5 hole h
Game played in July each year"
Tony Pullen
"Large park area, swings and slides area. Football is played here and there is a cricket club here. There is a bowls club as well. There is a community garden where they grow fresh vegetables and fruit. Events throughout the year. There are Bus stops very close to the park . There is a small cafe and a food van . There is seating around the park . On Sunday there is a small farmers market at the top end of the park ."
Helen Ford
"Great park. I stay nearby to this park. Went for a tennis session here last Saturday at the Leith Links Tennis Park. It's a great place to play tennis. Very cheap rate, only 1£ per hour. Booking is very easy. There are 3 courts. Highly recommended..."
Rohit Roy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Numerous bus routes serve the Leith Links area, making it easily accessible from the city centre.
You can also enjoy a pleasant walk or cycle along the Firth of Forth or the Water of Leith walkway for a more scenic approach.While specific parking details can vary, the area is well-served by public transport. It's often easier to use buses or trams to reach the park.
Yes, the Water of Leith walkway provides a beautiful route from areas like Stockbridge, and walking along the Firth of Forth is also an option.
If arriving by train at Waverley, avoid steep steps by taking Cockburn Street to reach the Royal Mile, then connect to public transport for Leith.
From Edinburgh Airport, you can take the Airlink 100 bus or the tram to reach the city centre, then transfer to a bus service heading towards Leith.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Leith Links is a public park, so there are no tickets or entry fees required to access the grounds.
The tennis courts at Leith Links are very affordable, with booking typically costing around £1 per hour.
The community garden at Leith Links is generally accessible to the public as part of the park.
As a public park, Leith Links is typically open from dawn until dusk, offering access throughout daylight hours.
The Sunday farmers market at the top end of Leith Links usually doesn't require advance booking; you can simply turn up and browse.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Leith Links is ideal for dog walking, sunbathing, playing with children, picnicking, and enjoying general outdoor recreation. There are also tennis courts and playgrounds.
Yes, there are newly built playgrounds for children located within Leith Links, making it a great spot for families.
Absolutely, Leith Links is a very popular and spacious park for dog walking, offering plenty of room for your pets to roam.
Leith Links is historically significant as it is believed to be the site of the world's first golf course, with games played there as early as the 15th century.
Yes, Leith Links hosts various events throughout the year, including a Sunday farmers market and other community gatherings.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
The Leith Community Croft & Farm Shop offers coffee and scones, and there's also a cafe and a food van located within or very close to the park.
The Shore area, a short walk from Leith Links, boasts many great pubs and restaurants, including some Michelin-starred options.
For local recommendations, consider Peters Food Hub on Great Junction Street or explore the diverse culinary scene along The Shore.
You can pick up wraps from places like Domenicos or explore the Sunday farmers market for fresh produce and treats to enjoy during your picnic.
Yes, the Leith Community Croft & Farm Shop is noted as being very baby and pram friendly, making it a comfortable spot for families.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the expansive green space, the historic feel of the links, and the vibrant community garden. The nearby Shore area also offers picturesque waterfront views.
The Shore area provides charming waterfront scenes, and the Water of Leith walkway offers beautiful natural and architectural backdrops.
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, can offer beautiful light across the open park. Spring and summer also provide lush greenery for vibrant shots.
Yes, the community garden is a lovely spot for photography, showcasing the fresh produce and the efforts of the local community.
While Leith Links is primarily a park, its proximity to the Firth of Forth and the Leith waterfront offers views of maritime activity and the city skyline.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a relaxed break, the Leith Community Croft & Farm Shop is noted as being very baby and pram friendly, offering a pleasant spot for a coffee and snack. While permanent public toilets are still in development, the park's open nature and recreational facilities make it a highly enjoyable outing for families.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to be mindful of other park users and ensure your dog is under control, especially near playgrounds or during busy periods. The park's accessibility via public transport also makes it easy to reach for a day out with your furry friend.
🚶♀️ Walkers & Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rich History of Leith Links
Beyond golf, the Links have served as a vital public space for centuries, witnessing everything from military musters to public gatherings. Its role as a recreational area continues today, with modern amenities complementing its historical charm. The park's evolution reflects the changing needs of the community while preserving its unique heritage.
Today, visitors can still walk the grounds where golf pioneers once played, imagining the early days of the sport. The open space is a testament to its enduring appeal for recreation and relaxation, offering a tangible connection to Edinburgh's past.
Exploring the Leith Waterfront and Shore
From The Shore, you can easily access other points of interest. The Water of Leith walkway offers a picturesque route for walking or cycling, leading towards Stockbridge or other parts of the city. Alternatively, Ocean Terminal, a large shopping centre with a cinema, is also nearby, providing entertainment and retail therapy.
This area is particularly enjoyable on a nice day, with many establishments offering outdoor seating, allowing you to savor the views and the lively ambiance. It’s a perfect spot to combine a scenic walk with a delightful meal or a refreshing drink.
Family Fun and Recreation at Leith Links
For those seeking more active pursuits, the Leith Links Tennis Park offers affordable court hire, making it an accessible option for a family tennis match. The presence of a community garden also adds an educational element, where children can learn about growing fresh produce.
With its combination of play areas, sports facilities, and open space, Leith Links provides a well-rounded recreational experience for families looking for outdoor fun in Edinburgh.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit