BALERNO TO SLATEFORD - WATER OF LEITH VISITOR CENTRE

Mary would like you to join her on this jaunt on quiet paths through Edinburgh’s outlying villages of Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green and Colinton. At the end of the 5 mile walk you can ennjoy a refreshment at the always welcoming Water of Leith Visitor Centre.

BALERNO: Edinburgh is known for its diverse natural and architectural landscape between city, countryside and coast, and Balerno does a marvellous job of showing off the city’s countryside charm.

SPYLAW PARK: was acquired by the Midlothian County Council in 1911 for use as a public park. Spylaw House dates back to the middle of the 17th century. It once had a snuff mill below and behind it, both owned by James Gillespie.

COLINTON VILLAGE: is famous for many people in history: Robert Louis Stevenson, James Gillespie, The Black Douglas also Scots Porridge Oats were made here. There once was a railway station, Tobacco mill and a Castle.

COLINTON RAIL TUNNEL MURAL: 140 metres long and 5.4 metres high - it's the biggest outdoor (though actually underground!) mural in Scotland, designed and delivered by top Scottish muralist, Chris Rutterford.

WATER OF LEITH VISITOR CENTRE AND COMMUNITY CAFE : combines a free exhibition together with a cafe selling teas, coffees and snacks. There’s also a gift shop selling books and souvenirs. It's open all year round, staffed by a volunteer team and with all manner of river information available.

GETTING THERE
🚌 BUS: Lothian bus 44 runs frequently to Balerno High School. https://lothianbuses.co.uk
🚙CAR: Parking is available in surrounding streets and you get back to Balerno High School, and to your car, with a 44 bus from outside the visitor centre.

EXTRAS

• ATTIRE: Dress to suit the weather and wear comfy walking boots/shoes
• BREAK: Bring a snack as we'll take a short lunch break en route
• DOGS: Welcome (May need to be on lead at times)
• PHONE: 07703 807 817‬