Provenance

Scottish Seafood

We unashamedly champion the fact that Scotland has the finest seafood in the world. With over 200 varieties in Scottish waters, we are in the enviable position of being able to offer a world-class product that’s enjoyed in the world’s finest restaurants. The Ship on the Shore, the seafood capital of Edinburgh, loves to use these offerings, and we take great pride in using the freshest, which arrives daily and is harvested from sustainable stocks. We love this gift from nature’s larder and wanted to share what we enjoy with you, our fellow travellers.

Exterior of the Ship on the Shore circa 1834, which was then trading as a tavern/coffee house/inn.

Exterior of the Ship on the Shore circa 1834, which was then trading as a tavern/coffee house/inn.

From our famous Smokehouse Platter to our seafood ‘orgy’ Fruits de Mer ‘Royale’ and our fantastic Hot Shellfish Platter, you’ll not eat better ingredients on Earth! Add seasonal market vegetables and our passion for champagne and fine wine, and it’s not fine dining we offer; it’s damn fine dining.

Our fish and seafood, which arrives daily, is harvested responsibly from sustainable stock; for example, our Mussels are rope-reared in the deep waters of the Shetland Isles, our Oysters come from the cool waters of Loch Creran, and our Scallops are hand-dived from the waters around the Isle of Mull. We also take pride in using locally sourced organic products.

Historical Establishment

The Ship on the Shore has been trading in various forms for hundreds of years, serving the bustling port of Leith. The area directly outside was part of the main docking point for Ships exporting and importing luxury goods across Europe, including wine, port, and brandy, alongside cloth, spices, paper, and exquisite glassware.

King George IV arrival outside our historic establishment.

There are plaques outside noting a particularly special event: a Royal visit by King George IV in 1822 by boat, landing right here at the Ship on the Shore, when it was temporarily renamed The Old Ship Hotel & King’s Landing to mark the arrival of the King. The visit was attended by thousands who looked on to see the first visit by a reigning monarch in nearly two centuries. In addition, it was here that Mary Queen of Scots arrived in Leith on the 19th of August 1561.

As the present custodians of the Ship on the Shore, we feel privileged to be part of this rich, vibrant heritage. The energy of seafarers, voyagers, exciting arrivals and departures permeates the history and heart of Leith; it is exciting to continue this journey into the 21st Century, serving the finest seafood, wine and champagne to all those who pass through our doors.