Leith
Edinburgh's coolest waterfront quarter
About Leith
Leith spent decades in Edinburgh's shadow, but that's long in the past. Today it's the city's most talked-about neighbourhood — a genuine mix of long-standing working-class community and an influx of young professionals, artists, and chefs who've made it Edinburgh's food and drink capital. The Shore strip alone has more Michelin-starred and critically acclaimed restaurants per square metre than almost anywhere in Scotland. Ocean Terminal brings major retail, and the Royal Yacht Britannia draws tourists year-round. Crucially, Leith feels real: it's not gentrified into blandness. Friday nights on Constitution Street buzz with a mix of regulars and newcomers. The Edinburgh Tram now runs directly to York Place in 10 minutes, making the commute entirely painless.
Neighbourhood vibes
Rental prices
Typical market rates 2025Scottish law note: All rentals use a Private Residential Tenancy (PRT). No fixed-term end date can force you to leave — only a valid notice to leave with a legal ground applies. SafeDeposits Scotland holds your deposit independently.
✓Why people love it
- ✓The Shore — Edinburgh's finest dining strip
- ✓Royal Yacht Britannia
- ✓Leith Market (Saturdays)
- ✓Ocean Terminal shopping centre
- ✓Water of Leith walkway
- ✓Leith Depot and indie music scene
- ✓Lively café culture on Easter Road
!Things to know
- ⚠Parking is genuinely difficult — most residents don't own cars
- ⚠Some streets away from The Shore feel isolated at night
- ⚠Festival season brings significant tourist overflow
- ⚠The tram is great but limited to one line
Getting around
Who is Leith best for?
Scottish council tax bands differ from England. Students are fully exempt — contact City of Edinburgh Council to apply. Single occupancy gets 25% off. Check your specific property band at mygov.scot.