Water of Leith Walkway
Water of Leith Conservation Trust · Edinburgh
A peaceful riverside walk winding through Edinburgh from the Pentland Hills to Leith. Easy underfoot and full of wildlife — great for pushchairs and young walkers alike.
Why families love it
- This gentle twelve-mile riverside path feels worlds away from the city, yet connects central Edinburgh to the coast with pushchair-friendly surfaces throughout most sections.
- Wildlife spotting keeps children engaged as herons, dippers, and even otters appear along the way, with numerous access points letting you tackle manageable chunks.
- Historic mill buildings, hidden gardens, and the Gallery of Modern Art's sculpture park provide natural stopping points that work brilliantly for snack breaks and exploration.
Best for
Families wanting an easy outdoor adventure without leaving Edinburgh, especially those with pushchairs or children who prefer gentle walks with plenty to spot along the way.
Good to know
The section from Dean Village to Stockbridge is particularly magical and takes about forty minutes with toddlers, offering stepping stones and bridges that children love. Download the Water of Leith Conservation Trust's map beforehand as phone signal can be patchy in the wooded sections. Wellies are worth bringing after rain as some stretches get muddy, and the path narrows near Balerno where pushchairs become trickier.
Practical info
- Age guidance
- The flat, paved sections suit families from baby age upwards, whilst primary-aged children enjoy the longer stretches and can manage several miles at their own pace.
- Typical cost
- Completely free to access at any point along the walkway, with no parking charges at most entry points including Balerno and Stockbridge.
- How long to allow
- Most families tackle individual sections rather than the full route, with popular stretches taking one to three hours depending on how often you stop for wildlife watching.
- Last checked
- May 2026