Leith Links (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Leith Links?
What makes it 83% Solo-Friendly: The flat paths, benches, free tennis sessions and open lawns let a solo visitor jog, read, play sport or people-watch safely; limited shade and no café mean you must bring water and snacks.
Positives:
- Ideal for solo exercise: Open, flat lawns let you jog or walk without obstruction
- Free sports sessions: Join weekend tennis and practice pétanque at no cost
- Quiet spots: Benches around the park offer secluded places to read or sketch
Challenges:
- Limited shelter: Few covered areas mean you’re exposed in rain or strong sun
- Toilet hours: Public toilets close early in winter; check opening times before your visit
What is Leith Links?
- A historic public greenspace in Leith, Edinburgh, dating to the 15th century when Scotland’s earliest recorded golf matches took place
- Expansive level lawns framed by mature elm and lime trees, divided by a perimeter road into two linked sections
- Sports facilities that include full-size football and cricket pitches, all-weather tennis courts and a modern children’s playground
What is so special about Leith Links for solo trip?
- Flat, open lawns ideal for running or walking
- Free weekend sports: tennis and pétanque
- Benches and quiet corners perfect for reading or sketching
- Easy opportunities for photography of wildlife and foliage
- Quick visit fits into any schedule with low cost
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Enough time to jog, join a tennis session, and relax at a bench
Solo-Friendly Activities in Leith Links
Jog the perimeter paths:
Follow the flat, grassy circuit around the park for a run or brisk walk
Tip: Start at the western entrance and complete a 1.2 km loop in under 15 minutes
Sketch or read at a bench:
Pick a shaded bench by the trees to draw or read in quiet
Tip: Bring a small mat to keep your supplies clean and sit comfortably
Join Free Parks Tennis:
Sign up online for weekend social tennis sessions to meet locals
Tip: Register at least two days ahead on the LTA Clubspark site
Practice pétanque:
Use the gravel court to play boules solo or ask nearby players to join
Tip: Carry your own boules set; evenings have fewer players
Photograph wildlife and trees:
Capture scenes of ducks, mature trees, and seasonal foliage
Tip: Walk along the southern edge near the Water of Leith for best bird activity
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Leith Links
- Early morning visit: Arrive before 9 am to enjoy the park with few visitors and cooler temperatures
- Book tennis slots: Sign up online for Free Parks Tennis sessions ahead of the weekend
- Bring essentials: Carry water and snacks; refill at the drinking fountain by the toilets
Reviews of Leith Links
Rohit Roy
Great park. I stay nearby to this park. Went for a tennis session here last Saturday at the Leith Links Tennis Park. It's a great place to play tennis. Very cheap rate, only 1£ per hour. Booking is very easy. There are 3 courts. Highly recommended...
Jeruva Rain
It's a huge park with many services: tennis court, playground for kids, a cafe, a market (open on Sundays), toilets and much more! It's great to have a picnic, do some exercise, take a walk with your dog or enjoy a nice family evening. It's open all the time, just remember to pick up all your rubbish.
Tony Pullen
Said to be the home of the original golf course, 5 hole h Game played in July each year
Irina Andreeva
Great place for recreation! Green open space with tennis court and a couple of newly built playgrounds for children and also gardening sectors. Very alive and yet peaceful atmosphere here. Such a lovely park! Very popular indeed.
JD Stewart
This is a lovely park/grass area to walk and hang out with friends. Obviously very quiet right now but will be a great place to meet when lockdown is over. Lots of places to sit and there are shops and cafes surrounding as well. Beautiful.
When is the best time to visit Leith Links (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
In summer, tennis sessions fill up fast—book early. In autumn, bring a camera for fall foliage. In winter, paths can be muddy; wear boots. Spring brings wildflowers near the Water of Leith edges.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Park entry | GBP 0 |
| Tennis court booking (optional) | GBP 1 |
| Coffee at nearby cafe | GBP 2.5 |
| Snack or market purchase | GBP 5 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 8.5 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Leith Links
Address: 4 Links Gardens, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 8HR, UK
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About Leith Links
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+44 131 529 706110 BEST nearby Activities
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