The Water of Leith Visitor Centre is situated in a renovated schoolhouse by the Water of Leith. It combines a free exhibition together with a community cafe selling teas, coffees, freshly baked goods and snacks. There’s also a gift shop selling eco friendly and wildlife themes books and gifts. The Centre is accessible to wheelchairs throughout and caters well for families with young children, and dogs.
The centre serves as a base for our volunteer conservation activities and includes rooms available to hire for events and birthday parties.
Our Visitor Centre and Community Cafe is staffed by our lovely volunteer team, pop in for excellent value refreshments, fresh baking and all manner of river information.
Our volunteer run café serves delicious snacks, coffees & teas – enjoy sit-in or takeaway.
Daily 10am to 4pm
Explore information panels describing the walkway, the river’s past, its bridges, its industry, and its people.
Shows what ‘we share the river with …….!!’
Focusing on the wildlife that lives in the river’s corridor, find out what birds, mammals, invertebrates, fish and plants share the river with us – you can even find out the problems we humans cause.
Where the experience comes alive.
Cause a flood, try to stop the giant waterwheel turning, control the sluices as you splash around these large stainless steel interactive models. On the unique ‘Call of the Wild Wall‘ listen for the sights and sounds of the river bank. Finally, get up close to the river’s creepy crawlies through the video ‘Bioscope‘.
Experience a guided walk or illustrated talk to really discover Edinburgh’s river. We have a programme to suit any age or ability and it is available 7 days a week.
Book an outdoor environmental themed party for your child. Our experienced staff offer a unique birthday experience. Suitable for 5 to 11 year olds.
We offer engaging outdoor educational programmes for school groups inc. Nursery, Primary, Secondary and JASS workshops.
Buy a paper copy of the Water of Leith Walkway Map via PayPal using the button below (UK postage only)
Important Shipping Update:
Due to rising costs and import tariffs, we’re unfortunately no longer able to send maps outside of the UK. We know this may be disappointing and appreciate your patience and support.
If you’re planning a visit, we’d love to welcome you at our Visitor Centre where you can purchase a map in person. Alternatively, please order a map to be posted to your UK accommodation on your arrival.
The Water of Leith Visitor Centre is situated in a renovated schoolhouse by the Water of Leith at Lanark Road in Slateford, easily accessible 4 miles west of Edinburgh City Centre on the A70.
Bus numbers 20, 34, 36 and 44 stop outside the Centre. And Slateford Railway Station is a short walk away
Our Address:
Water of Leith Visitor Centre
24 Lanark Road
Edinburgh
EH14 1TQ