Tour of Leith and Leith Market
Join Paul, your local guide, for a tour around the historic Port of Leith.
Leith’s history is rich and varied - like most ports it has had many ups and downs over the centuries. It was once the main port for the whole of Scotland and has a shipbuilding history stretching back 600 years. Many Scottish, English and European monarchs have passed through Leith, including Mary, Queen of Scots, most of her grandparents and even her son. As a feminist, this tour will also look at some of the women who, one way or another, have made an impact in Leith. Leith was also known as the whisky capital of Scotland and you will learn about the ladies of Leith’s role in that trade.
Unfortunately, Leith suffered a massive decline in the 1980s due to mass unemployment, poverty and drug abuse - as made famous in the movie Trainspotting.
Leith has bounced back in spectacular fashion and, according to Lonely Planet and The Rough Guide, is now one of the hippest and trendiest places to live in the world! It is home to three Michelin Star Restaurants, lots of trendy bistros and bars, floating luxury hotels and The Royal Yacht Britannia.
Leith also hosts a local market every Saturday and this is where the tour will conclude, giving you free time to explore the market at your leisure.
Leith Market is a foodie heaven with stalls selling fresh fish, meat, bread, fruit and veg, all sorts of delicious home-bakes, olives, charcuterie and Continental and Scottish cheeses. You can sample superb street food - with Indian, African, French, Scottish and more on offer. The market also showcases Creative Crafts and Original Artwork and you can rest assured that by buying from local people you are supporting the local economy.
Check out our other tours.
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