Water of Leith
Catchment Information
Statistics
Catchment Size: 125 km²
Length: 35 km
Highest Water Level:Â 3.10 m April 2000
Lowest Water Level:Â 0.33 m
Catchment Description
The Water of Leith is the main river flowing through Edinburgh to the port of Leith where it flows into the sea via the Firth of Forth. It rises in the Colzium Springs at Millstone Rig of the Pentland Hills and flows through Balerno and Currie before hitting Edinburgh.
Historic influences
As the river flows through Edinburgh, it travels past Dean Village which was once an industrial mill area of the city. Today it is known as a very pleasant part of Edinburgh and the original bridge was built by Thomas Telford in 1831. The Dean Village was once separate from the City until bought by the Lord Provost, John Learmonth.
Did you know ?
The Water of Leith Walkway running from Balerno to Leith was created through the area in 1983. You can walk from Balerno all the way to Leith along the designated walkway. Make sure to stop by the Water of Leith Visitor Centre to learn more about the Water of Leith.Â