This spring, we marked an extraordinary milestone—25 years since the Water of Leith Visitor Centre opened its doors to the public. From humble beginnings on April 3rd, 2000, the Centre has grown into a beloved hub for nature, learning, and community—welcoming over 355,000 visitors through our doors in that time. To mark the occasion, on 13th April we hosted a special celebration day filled with fun for all ages. Regulars, volunteers and local families joined us for river dipping, wildflower bingo, “fishing out the filth” games, a mayfly meet-and-greet, exhibitions, and our “silver thread in a ribbon of green” treasure hunt — plus plenty of tea and a slice of celebration cake!
From Modest Beginnings to a Thriving Community Space
What began as a modest centre has blossomed into a vibrant place where families explore nature, curious minds engage with exhibitions, and loyal regulars drop in for a cuppa or a chat. Our exhibition space alone—free to enjoy (with donations always appreciated!)—has been visited by more than 100,000 people. While some of the original features have changed over the years (farewell bubble tubes, hello river waste displays!), our core mission remains: to inform, inspire, and connect people with the natural heritage of the Water of Leith.
The Heart of the Centre: Our Volunteers
None of this would have been possible without our incredible volunteer team, who have donated an astounding 71,000+ hours to keep the Centre and its work running. Whether brewing coffees, tending the gardens, running events, or sitting on our board—you are the backbone of this place. That time, if costed today, equates to over £866,000 in value—but to us, it’s priceless.
A Collection of Volunteer Memories
Over the years, our volunteers have not only given their time, but created a community of care, humour, and friendship. Here are just a few of their reflections and memorable moments:
• Volunteers Anne, Gill, and Kit have been with us since before the Centre opened in 2000, with Heather and Evelyn joining soon after in 2002. (pictured)
• From clean-ups and café shifts to being the only person to do a full day on a Wednesday every week for over 15 years, no job has ever been too big—or too small.
• Teams have handled everything from membership admin, gift aid tracking, preparing school resources, stuffing envelopes, and even sharpening pencils!
• Our plant sales, legendary in their own right, have been masterminded by dedicated volunteers who also supplied plants, baking, and helped run our event kitchens.
• Volunteers have represented us at events like Art in the Park and Coalie Fundays, passed out leaflets in shopping centres, done the recycling, and watered the plants.
• There’s been training of new volunteers, reviewing the weekly planning bulletin, and updating wildlife sighting records.
• Not to forget the fun: volunteer thank-you session, memorable cleaners, and plenty of laughs.
And of course, we pause to remember those no longer with us—George Hunter, George Hardie, Jim Barton, Jack and Jim, Marjorie, Bill Shannon, Brian Henderson, Graham Priestly—each of whom made a lasting impression on this place and in our hearts.
A Revitalised Café and Shop
Our café and shop have evolved too. From a basic tea service to barista-style coffees, fresh bakes, and a retail section full of thoughtful, sustainable gifts, we’ve grown alongside your support. Our income has more than doubled in the last five years, helping us reinvest in our mission.
Events, Activities and Moments of Magic
From duck races and treasure hunts, to Halloween fire-spinners, bug hunts, faerie trails, and survival skills, our events programme has brought joy to thousands. We’ve always believed learning in nature should be magical and inclusive.
Embracing Change and Staying Connected
From dial-up modems to a fully interactive digital presence, we’ve kept pace with the times. Our new website, launched in 2021, saw over 76,000 users last year, further growing our reach and impact.
Looking Back—and Ahead
Even in challenging times, like the 2020 lockdown, we kept going—serving takeaway coffees through a side door, offering safe walking routes, and keeping the community connected. That resilience and sense of purpose carried us through, and still drives us today.
As we celebrate 25 years of stories, dedication, and connection, we look to the next 25 with hope and ambition. Thank you to every visitor, volunteer, supporter, and friend who’s made this journey possible. Here’s to the next chapter—may it be as wild, wonderful, and full of life as the last.