Explore the Pentlands Open Studios (POSt) Art Trail. It’s located in the upper valley of the Water of Leith between the villages of Balerno and Colinton. Visit us on the last weekend in August.
Here are ten reasons to come and they are not just the ten magnificent open studios housing the 18 artists!
1. Ten unique studios along the Water of Leith
Explore ten working studios along the upper valley of the Water of Leith, each filled with creativity, character and craftsmanship. Find the map on our website or pick one up from our the information centre in Spylaw Park near Colinton.
2. Step inside the creative mind
Get behind the scenes access to the tools, materials and inspirations that shape each artist’s work.
3. Meet the makers
Talk to the artists and makers in person. Learn about their process, their stories and what drives their creativity.
4. Explore the Pentlands
Take the scenic route through hills, farmland and riverside as you travel to visit studios in beautiful, unexpected places.
5. Buy direct from the studio
There’s something special about buying directly from where it was made. Every piece has a story and now you’re part of it.
6. Discover artist dolls and artist books
Really intriguing works that you’ve not seen before. It’s artwork that’s personal, handmade and completely unique.
7. Stamps mean prizes
Visitors that follow the Trail and collect stamps at most of our studios can enter our prize draw. It could be a voucher to spend with your favourite POSt artist, or bottle of wine. Who knows? But it’s free to enter, so give it a go.
8. Furnish your home with art
From paintings to jewellery to textiles, discover pieces that will make your space truly one of a kind.
9. Every studio is a surprise
Art Trail stops range from a National Trust Scotland Victorian greenhouse to kitchen tables. No two are the same and every visit is an adventure.
10. Support independent artists
Your visit, your chats, and your purchases all support 18 brilliant creative businesses. These businesses are spread across the villages of the upper valley of the Water of Leith.
Do you live outside our area, or have friends that do? We’re not that far away! We’ve pulled together some estimated driving times from major places within three hours; we’re closer than you think.
| Place | Drive time |
|---|---|
| Edinburgh | 00:30 |
| Dunfermline | 00:45 |
| Dunbar | 00:50 |
| Stirling | 00:50 |
| Glasgow | 01:00 |
| Galashiels | 01:00 |
| Perth | 01:00 |
| Berwick | 01:15 |
| Dundee | 01:30 |
| St Andrews | 01:30 |
| Ayr | 01:50 |
| Carlisle | 02:00 |
| Newcastle | 02:30 |
| Aberdeen | 02:30 |
| Durham | 02:45 |
| Oban | 02:45 |
| Inverness | 03:00 |
Why not escape the hustle and bustle this late August, get some fresh air, be inspired and visit the POSt Art Trail?!
Once here, you could park up and walk on the beautiful Water of Leith walkway or use the frequent bus services.
All the images above are of work made by artists exhibiting in #POSTudios2025. Check our website to see the map of where they are and information about them. Follow us on Instagram @PentlandsOpenStudios.
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