What is New Leith?

New Leith is a blog about everyday life in the vibrant community of Leith, Edinburgh, Scotland. Containing photos, articles and reviews, it documents the ongoing evolution of Edinburgh’s most interesting district.

Who is behind New Leith?

New Leith is written by a mysterious resident of Leith, who walks the dog-poo paved streets, armed with a camera and a warm coat, photographing and recording everyday life in the various shops, cafes, bars, restaurants, nooks and crannies of the district and surrounding areas.

About Leith

Leith is a district of Edinburgh. Once a thriving port, the decline of the docks and shipping industry led to it becoming a run down, crime-riddled no-go zone for non-locals; the perfect setting for the gritty novel (and subsequent film) about a bunch of heroin addicts – Trainspotting. Now however, Leith has entered a renaissance period and has become one of Edinburgh’s most up and coming areas.

It’s still a little rough round the edges though – a vibrant mix of chic and shit. Intimidating high-rise council blocks meet glass-balconied luxury apartments; trendy media professionals dine in upmarket restaurants whilst alkys sup on Buckfast, and the beautiful Water of Leith flows through it, bringing with it the not-so-beautiful filth of the city.

It’s cosmopolitan, multicultural, dirty and occaisionally dangerous. But we love it all the same.