This excellent river trail begins in the suburban village of Balerno. The walkway is well signposted and the first few miles occupy the trackbed of an old branch railway. Spylaw Park is a lovely green oasis to stop for a rest or to enjoy a packed lunch. As we approach the city boundaries, Colinton Tunnel appears before us. The gloomy passageway has been transformed in recent years by the installation of better lighting and - more importantly - a stunning mural running the length of the interior, depicting the social history of the area. The Balerno Railway formerly joined the main line near Slateford Viaduct, but do not proceed directly to this mighty structure. Keep your eyes peeled instead for the walkway diverging into a delightful wooded valley known as the Dells.
We eventually reach the viaduct and aqueduct at Slateford. The Water of Leith Visitors Centre is located here and offers refreshments and toilet facilities. Amenities are also available at Saughton Park & Gardens, a bit further on. The trail runs past Murrayfield Stadium where the river follows an artificial channel around the edge of Roseburn Park. We then return to a natural valley and pass through the picturesque Dean Village. Look out for a statue in the water near the Gallery of Modern Art. St Bernard's Well is housed within an attractive structure as we approach Stockbridge, where a short stretch of street walking is required. We return to the banks, then back to the pavement at the Grange cricket ground. The final push to Leith has now begun and again we find ourselves upon an old railway line. At the remains of Bonnington Station, the official walkway climbs out of the cutting to return to the river. Alternatively, stay on the railway path, which chops out a meander before merging with the water trail. The path ends at the historic Leith shore, which has plenty options for eating and drinking. Frequent buses (and soon trams) will whisk you back to the city centre.
