Leith

The capital's culinary seaside district

Word to the wise: By far the most pleasant way to get from the city centre to Leith is to walk or cycle along the beautiful Water of Leith Walkway.
Talk of the town: Scottish novelist Irvine Welsh, whose book 'Trainspotting' was made into the cult movie classic, was born in this port town.

This little port district was once renowned for urban squalor, but it has certainly cleaned up its act. Now packed with gentrified pubs and stylish eateries, it can boast a handful of Michelin stars making it one of the UK's gastronomic hotspots.
Restaurant Martin Wishart gained the area's first Michelin star, followed by Tom Kitchin's The Kitchin and more recently The Plumed Horse, which offer outstanding cuisine at far better prices than most star-spangled places. But there is more down-to-earth dining to be had too, especially around Bernard, Commercial and Henderson streets with everything from fish and chip shops to gastro pubs.

While it isn't exactly happening on the nightlife scene, there are some great pubs and bars along the Shore with tables looking over the tranquil waters of the port. Ocean Terminal offers serious retail therapy, or take in the rich seafaring heritage aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia, once Her Majesty's personal ride.