When residing in a metropolis, it can be tough to escape the hustle and bustle, particularly if you can’t travel to the countryside. Fortunately, Edinburgh is not only a place of lively opportunities, but it is also home to numerous stunning walks that offer a little respite in nature. For this photo series, I decided to spend some alone time and stroll along part of the Water of Leith, starting near the Gallery of Modern Art. Some individuals may differ, but on these walks, I choose to keep my senses completely open so that I can absorb everything around me without being distracted by my phone or music. Regardless of the weather, the Water of Leith remains one of my favorite paths. From its incredible wildlife to its picturesque views, there is something to notice at every turn. At the beginning of my wander, there were hundreds of types of plants and flowers to see, with various colors and scents bursting out. It is a public path with dog walkers, runners, and families, but when you switch off your busy thoughts and switch on all your senses in a place like this, you truly feel alone – this is no bad thing. Further down the walk, you come across Dean Village, which is introduced by a large waterfall. Although Dean Village is one of the more tourist-filled areas of the walk, it never fails to impress. It boasts glorious Renaissance and Gothic architecture alongside the calming riverbed and is something not to be missed. Not far from Dean Village is the Dean Bridge. It is a magnificent sight to see with its arches rising a mighty 106 feet above the river. Nearby, you start to see various private gardens surrounding the river as well as a church or two. Despite the fact that the gardens are for residents only, you are free to admire them from behind the fence and have a look at whatever wildlife and plants might live there. My personal favorite attraction of the walk is St. Bernard’s Well, a beautiful Greco-Roman structure containing a well that was once believed to have healing powers, described by its inscription ‘Bibendo Valeris’ which translates as ‘Drink and You Will Be Well’. Not far from Hygeia is where you can exit the walk at Stockbridge, leading to various routes to the town center or all the way to Leith. It’s walks like these that are the more discreet, beating hearts of the city. When you are someone like me who comes from the Highlands originally, it can sometimes be gut-wrenching to feel so far away from home, but it’s places like the Water of Leith that allow you to feel just that little bit closer and that little bit happier, thanks to the simple act of being immersed in nature for a few hours.
Capturing the Beauty of Water of Leith & Dean Village: A Photo Essay
