Trinity House of Leith

Trinity House of Leith is a museum housed in a Georgian building designed by Thomas Brown in 1816, displaying ship models, navigational instruments, and maritime objects. The rooms showcase personal and professional items from the shipping world alongside historical documents connected to the port and its operations.

Trinity House was founded in 1380 when ship captains and merchants formed an association to protect their interests at the harbor. Over time, the organization collected port and shipping fees to support sick sailors, widows, and orphans in the community.

The portraits of Sir Henry Raeburn on the walls show figures who shaped Scotland's maritime world, offering a glimpse into the faces of those who commanded ships and trade. These paintings reflect a period when Leith was one of Scotland's most vital ports.

The museum is open from April through September with guided tours available on Fridays, but remains closed to visitors from October through March. Plan your visit for the warmer months when the building is fully accessible.

The collection holds a French flag captured at the Battle of Trafalgar and a whaling harpoon more than 200 years old from sailing expeditions. These objects tell of the dangerous adventures that sailors from Leith experienced at sea.

Location: City of Edinburgh

Location: Edinburgh

Inception: 1816

Architects: Thomas Brown

Architectural style: Georgian architecture

Address: 99 Kirkgate, Leith, EH6 6BJ

Phone: +441315543289

Website: https://historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/trinity-house

GPS coordinates: 55.97220,-3.17135

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:02