Colinton Tunnel Murals Edinburgh
Discover Scotland's largest historical mural, transforming a Victorian railway tunnel into a vibrant art gallery on the Water of Leith walkway.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Colinton Tunnel Murals Edinburgh
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Scotland's largest historical mural, transforming a Victorian railway tunnel into a vibrant art gallery on the Water of Leith walkway.
"A delightful public art project that’s well worth visiting, transforming a dark tunnel into a safe and welcoming home for art."
👟 Wear Sensible Shoes
Paths can be muddy and slippery, especially beyond the tunnel.
🚗 Parking Nearby
Car parking is available, making it easier to access for a short visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Mural
Colinton Tunnel
Scotland's largest historical mural transforms a Victorian railway tunnel into a vibrant art gallery.
Water of Leith Walkway
Adjacent to the tunnel
Explore scenic paths along the river, a peaceful escape with historical charm.
Community Artistry
Colinton Tunnel
Admire art created by professionals and local school children, showcasing community spirit.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Art, Respect the Space
Plan Your Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sensible Shoes
Paths can be muddy and slippery, especially beyond the tunnel.
🚗 Parking Nearby
Car parking is available, making it easier to access for a short visit.
♿ Wheelchair Accessible
The tunnel itself is accessible for wheelchair users.
📸 Perfect for Photos
The vibrant murals make for stunning, aesthetic photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sensible Shoes
Paths can be muddy and slippery, especially beyond the tunnel.
🚗 Parking Nearby
Car parking is available, making it easier to access for a short visit.
♿ Wheelchair Accessible
The tunnel itself is accessible for wheelchair users.
📸 Perfect for Photos
The vibrant murals make for stunning, aesthetic photos.
🚶♀️ Safe for Solo Visitors
Plenty of people around, making it feel safe even when visiting alone.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Colinton Tunnel Murals, calling it a delightful public art project and a well-kept secret. The vibrant, community-driven artwork is a major draw, transforming a historic railway tunnel into an inspiring space. While the surrounding paths can be muddy, the overall experience is highly recommended for its unique charm and free access.
"This is a delightful public art project that’s well worth visiting. The local area has connections to John Louis Stevenson for those with literary interests. The tunnel itself is a disused railway tunnel that now lies on the Water of Leith walking route. You don’t have to do the whole walk though, a bus to Colinton Village and a brief walk (a fairly steep slope down through the old village is involved)"
AJ Merron
"Beautiful street art through the length of the tunnel. Highly recommend adding this stop in your bike route if you're out exploring Edinburgh."
Dustin Morgan
"A beautifully decorated tunnel with some of the artwork designed by local organisations. It is free to enter.
The tunnel was well lit and clean, so it felt safe to walk through.
Beyond it, you are able to follow paths along the River Leith. These were muddy and slippery, so sensible walking shoes are required.
The tunnel can be accessed by people who use a wheelchair."
Shelley C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a bus to Colinton Village, which is a short journey from the city centre. From the village, it's a brief walk to the tunnel, though be aware of a potentially steep slope down through the old village.
Yes, there is car parking available near the Colinton Tunnel, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Colinton Tunnel is situated on the Water of Leith walkway. You can incorporate it into a longer walk or access it via Colinton Village.
Many visitors enjoy cycling the Water of Leith walkway, with the tunnel being a key point of interest on the route.
While a hidden gem, it's well-signposted once you're in the Colinton Village area and on the Water of Leith walkway.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Colinton Tunnel Murals is completely free. It's a public art project for everyone to enjoy.
The tunnel is an open public space, so it's accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and safety.
The tunnel is well-lit and generally clean, and many visitors report feeling safe, especially during the day when there are other people around.
Yes, the tunnel itself is accessible for people using wheelchairs.
While there are no official restrictions, it's a community art project, so visitors are encouraged to respect the artwork and keep the space clean.
📸 📸 Photography
Daylight hours are best for capturing the vibrant murals. Mid-morning or afternoon can offer good lighting conditions.
The entire length of the tunnel is adorned with murals, making every section a potential photo opportunity.
While personal photography is encouraged, it's always best to check if any specific permits are required for commercial or professional photoshoots.
Aesthetic shots, artistic portraits, and capturing the scale of the historical mural are popular.
As with most public spaces in Edinburgh, drone usage may be restricted. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
It's famous for being Scotland's largest historical mural, transforming a disused Victorian railway tunnel into a vibrant art space.
You'll find a 140m long tunnel covered in diverse murals celebrating Colinton's industrial, social, artistic, and literary history.
Yes, children often enjoy the colourful art and the novelty of walking through a decorated tunnel.
It's a scenic path that follows the River Leith, offering a peaceful natural environment. Be aware that sections can be muddy and slippery.
A short visit to see the murals can take around 30 minutes. If you plan to walk along the Water of Leith, allow more time.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with a walk along the Water of Leith walkway. While some sections can be muddy, it offers a chance for kids to explore nature. Remember to bring sturdy footwear for everyone, and perhaps a picnic to enjoy by the river. The accessibility of the tunnel itself also makes it manageable for families with strollers.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Pairing this with a walk along the Water of Leith or utilizing public transport to reach Colinton Village keeps expenses low. It's a prime example of discovering Edinburgh's hidden gems that offer immense value and unique experiences without breaking the bank.
🚴 Cyclists
The murals provide a visually stimulating break during your cycling route, adding an artistic dimension to your journey.Ensure your bike is in good condition and be mindful of other walkers on the path. The tunnel itself is easily navigable by bike, and the surrounding area offers beautiful scenery for a refreshing ride.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Transformation
The project, led by artist Chris Rutterford, involved local organizations and school children, creating a vibrant tapestry celebrating Colinton's rich history, from its industrial past to its literary connections. This collaborative effort has turned a potentially eerie space into a welcoming and inspiring public art gallery.Redditors have noted the ongoing efforts to maintain the artwork against vandalism, highlighting the community's dedication to preserving this unique space.
The transformation of the tunnel serves as a powerful example of how public art can revitalize urban spaces and foster a sense of local pride. It's a free attraction that offers a unique glimpse into Edinburgh's creative landscape, far from the usual tourist trails.
Exploring the Water of Leith
Visitors should be prepared for the terrain. While the tunnel itself is accessible, the paths along the river can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain. Wearing sensible walking shoes is highly recommended to navigate these sections safely.
Beyond the tunnel, the walkway connects to other points of interest, making it a great option for a longer exploration. It's a chance to experience a more natural side of Edinburgh, away from the historic architecture of the city centre, and a perfect complement to the artistic discovery within the tunnel itself.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit