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The Water of Leith Walkway is a picturesque public footpath and cycleway that traces the course of Edinburgh’s main river, the Water of Leith, through the heart of Scotland’s capital. Stretching approximately 12.25 to 13 miles (19.6 to 20.6 km), this tranquil route begins in the Pentland Hills southwest of the city, meanders through various urban and natural landscapes, and concludes at the Firth of Forth in Leith. It offers a unique perspective on Edinburgh, connecting historic villages, modern districts,…
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9. juni 2020
Cykling
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468
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36,8km
02:24
330m
330m
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480m
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219
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23,4km
01:25
170m
170m
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Detaljer
Oplysninger
Højdemeter 140 m
Vejr
Drevet af Foreca
I dag
tirsdag 24. marts
11°C
4°C
98 %
Flere vejrtips
Maks. vindhastighed: 27,0 km/h
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Yes, the Water of Leith Walkway is very dog-friendly, making it a popular choice for dog walkers. While there are no specific restrictions mentioned, it's always best practice to keep dogs on a lead, especially in busier sections or near wildlife, and to clean up after them to maintain the path's cleanliness for all visitors.
For families, the sections around the Water of Leith Visitor Centre (between Colinton and Slateford) are highly recommended, as the centre itself offers an interactive exhibition and a café. The path here is generally flat and well-maintained. The stretch through Dean Village and Stockbridge is also popular for its picturesque scenery and easy access to amenities, though it can be busier.
Parking can be found at various points along the walkway, particularly near access points in areas like Balerno, Colinton, and Leith. However, parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Consider using public transport to reach different sections of the walkway to avoid parking difficulties, or arrive early if driving.
Yes, the walkway passes through several urban areas like Dean Village, Stockbridge, and Leith, offering numerous opportunities for refreshments. You'll find cafes and pubs in these areas. For accommodation, there are various hotels and guesthouses in the surrounding Edinburgh districts, particularly in Stockbridge and Leith, which are easily accessible from the path.
The Water of Leith Walkway is largely flat, making it accessible for many. While there are minor undulations, it generally follows the gentle gradient of the river. The path consists of a mix of paved sections, compacted gravel, and natural earth, suitable for walking, running, and cycling. The overall elevation change along its 12-13 mile length is minimal.
Beyond the well-known Dean Village and St Bernard's Well, look out for the impressive Colinton Tunnel, which features Scotland's largest art mural. The various sculptures from Antony Gormley's '6 Times' project are also subtly placed along the river and can be a fun discovery. Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife, including otters and kingfishers, which are often considered hidden gems themselves.
While much of the walkway is relatively flat, not all sections are fully wheelchair accessible due to varying path surfaces (gravel, earth) and occasional steps or narrow points. The sections through urban areas like Stockbridge and parts of Leith tend to be more accessible with paved surfaces. It's advisable to check specific sections or contact the Water of Leith Conservation Trust for the most up-to-date accessibility information.
The Water of Leith is an Urban Wildlife Site, home to a surprising array of creatures. You might spot over 80 species of birds, including kingfishers and herons, as well as various fish. Mammals like otters, roe deer, and badgers also inhabit the area. If you're particularly lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of an albino squirrel.
Walking the entire 12-13 mile (19.6-20.6 km) length of the Water of Leith Walkway typically takes between 4 to 6 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to explore points of interest. Many visitors choose to walk shorter sections, which can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours.
While the Water of Leith Walkway itself is linear, you can easily create circular routes by combining sections of the walkway with adjacent streets or paths. For example, a popular option is to walk a section of the walkway and then return via the charming streets of Dean Village and Stockbridge, exploring the local shops and cafes. You can also use public transport to return to your starting point after walking a linear section.
For a comfortable experience, it's recommended to bring appropriate footwear for walking or cycling, as path surfaces can vary. Depending on the weather, layers of clothing, a waterproof jacket, and sun protection are advisable. Don't forget water, snacks, and a camera to capture the scenic views and wildlife. A map or a navigation app can also be helpful for planning your route and identifying points of interest.