Leith Links, Edinburgh - Black and white picture of houses in bath
1 / 10

Leith Links Edinburgh

4.4
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooming flowers, mild weather

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Leith Links, Edinburgh - Black and white picture of houses in bath

Leith Links Edinburgh

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooming flowers, mild weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.4
(2k reviews)

"A great park for recreation, with a lively yet peaceful atmosphere and plenty of green space."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Links

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

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

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

Leith Links is a vast, open park perfect for leisurely strolls, dog walking, and family fun. While it offers a peaceful escape, be aware that amenities like permanent public toilets are still being developed. Check for local events, as the park hosts various activities throughout the year.

Getting Around Leith

Public transport is convenient for reaching Leith Links, with numerous bus stops nearby. For a scenic journey, consider walking or cycling along the Firth of Forth towards Portobello. The Water of Leith walkway also offers a beautiful route into Stockbridge.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Blooming flowers, mild weather
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Ideal for picnics & games
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunday mornings
Why
Farmers market buzz
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

When is the best time to visit Edinburgh? That's a question asked all the time! Let's break down what to expect in spring. Remember: weather, crowds, and your budget are all connected when planning your trip. Edinburgh experience: Spring (March-May): Weather: Mild with increasing temperatures (7-13°C (or 45°-55°F), but still expect some rain. Flowers: Enjoy blooming trees and flowers, with cherr...
@rhonatheunicorn
231.7K likes • 1.6M views

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Walks

Walk along the Firth of Forth to Portobello or explore the Water of Leith walkway. Reddit

☕ Coffee & Bites

Try Williams & Johnson for coffee or grab a wrap from Domenicos. Reddit

Advice for Tourists #fy #fyp #fypシ #foryou #travel #traveltok #travelbucketlist #traveltips #PlacesToVisit #thingstodo #edinburgh #edfringe #edinburghfringe #visitscotland #hiddengems #travelinspiration #familydayout #edinburghzoo #edinburghhiddengems #explore #viral #traveltiktok #TikTokTaughtMe #hiddengem #hiddenscotland #thingstodoinedinburgh
@auldedinburgh
202.7K likes • 1.8M views
A peaceful spot for a freshly baked scone and frothy cappuccino! 😍💭 Very baby/ pram friendly and a perfect spot to escape the Fringe crowds. 👶🎉 📍Leith Community Croft & Farm Shop, Leith Links 🌳 @earth_in_common #coffee #leitheats #edinburghcafes #edinburghblog #babyfriendly #edinburghcity #edinburghbloggers #scottishfoodies
tastesofedinburgh
152 likes • 0 views

🎾 Affordable Tennis

Book a cheap tennis session at Leith Links Tennis Park for just £1/hour. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun

Enjoy the new playgrounds and vast open spaces for kids to play. Reddit

I never expected Edinburgh to be a foodie city but it really suprised me! Here’s everything I did when I was there! #edinburgh #edinburghscotland #Scotland #scotlandtravel #travelbucketlist #traveltips
@calebthill
118.3K likes • 1.3M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Walks

Walk along the Firth of Forth to Portobello or explore the Water of Leith walkway. Reddit

☕ Coffee & Bites

Try Williams & Johnson for coffee or grab a wrap from Domenicos. Reddit

🎾 Affordable Tennis

Book a cheap tennis session at Leith Links Tennis Park for just £1/hour. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun

Enjoy the new playgrounds and vast open spaces for kids to play. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly

A great spot for dog walking with plenty of open space. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(2k reviews)

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

Vast open green space
Family-friendly playgrounds
Affordable tennis courts

What People Dislike

Limited permanent toilets

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Numerous bus routes serve the Leith Links area, making it easily accessible from the city centre. Reddit 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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Leith Links is a public park, so there are no tickets or entry fees required to access the grounds. Reddit

The tennis courts at Leith Links are very affordable, with booking typically costing around £1 per hour. Reddit

The community garden at Leith Links is generally accessible to the public as part of the park. Reddit

As a public park, Leith Links is typically open from dawn until dusk, offering access throughout daylight hours. Reddit

The Sunday farmers market at the top end of Leith Links usually doesn't require advance booking; you can simply turn up and browse. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ 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. Reddit

Yes, there are newly built playgrounds for children located within Leith Links, making it a great spot for families. Reddit

Absolutely, Leith Links is a very popular and spacious park for dog walking, offering plenty of room for your pets to roam. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, Leith Links hosts various events throughout the year, including a Sunday farmers market and other community gatherings. Reddit

🍽️ ☕ 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. InstagramReddit

The Shore area, a short walk from Leith Links, boasts many great pubs and restaurants, including some Michelin-starred options. Reddit

For local recommendations, consider Peters Food Hub on Great Junction Street or explore the diverse culinary scene along The Shore. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, the Leith Community Croft & Farm Shop is noted as being very baby and pram friendly, making it a comfortable spot for families. Instagram

📸 📸 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. Reddit

The Shore area provides charming waterfront scenes, and the Water of Leith walkway offers beautiful natural and architectural backdrops. Reddit

Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, can offer beautiful light across the open park. Spring and summer also provide lush greenery for vibrant shots. TikTok

Yes, the community garden is a lovely spot for photography, showcasing the fresh produce and the efforts of the local community. Reddit

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Leith Links is a fantastic destination for families. It boasts newly built playgrounds that are sure to delight children of all ages. The expansive grassy areas are perfect for running, playing games, or enjoying a picnic. Reddit Consider bringing a ball or frisbee for extra fun. The affordable tennis courts also offer a great opportunity for some family sporting activity. Reddit

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. Instagram While permanent public toilets are still in development, the park's open nature and recreational facilities make it a highly enjoyable outing for families. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Leith Links is a paradise for dog owners. Its large, open grassy areas provide ample space for dogs to run, play, and explore freely. Reddit It's a popular spot for dog walking, and you'll likely encounter many other canine companions. Reddit

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. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkers & Nature Lovers

For those who enjoy a good walk, Leith Links and its surroundings offer delightful options. You can explore the historic grounds of the links themselves, imagining its past as a golf course. Reddit For a more extended nature experience, walk or cycle along the Firth of Forth towards Portobello, enjoying coastal views. Reddit Alternatively, the Water of Leith walkway provides a beautiful, tranquil path through varied scenery, connecting to areas like Stockbridge. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Rich History of Leith Links

Leith Links holds a significant place in sporting history, widely recognized as the site of the world's first official golf course. Records indicate that golf was played on these grounds as early as the 15th century, making it a pilgrimage site for golf enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The expansive, flat terrain provided the perfect natural setting for the early iterations of the game. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Exploring the Leith Waterfront and Shore

The Shore in Leith is a vibrant waterfront area renowned for its culinary scene, boasting a mix of Michelin-starred restaurants and more casual eateries. It's a fantastic place to enjoy fresh seafood and soak in the maritime atmosphere. Reddit Visitors can stroll along the docks, admire the boats, and choose from a wide array of dining options, from traditional pubs to contemporary dining experiences. Reddit

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. Reddit Alternatively, Ocean Terminal, a large shopping centre with a cinema, is also nearby, providing entertainment and retail therapy. Reddit

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. Reddit

Family Fun and Recreation at Leith Links

Leith Links is a haven for families, offering a range of activities to keep children entertained. The park features newly built playgrounds with modern equipment, providing a safe and exciting space for kids to play and explore. Reddit The vast open grassy areas are perfect for running around, kicking a ball, or enjoying a family picnic on a sunny day. Reddit

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. Reddit The presence of a community garden also adds an educational element, where children can learn about growing fresh produce. Reddit

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. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2