Leith Community Cafe - Edinburgh

I 've been living in Leith for over 6 years now and thought it was about time I checked out my local community centre! Leith Community Education Centre is based on the first floor of the Newkirkgate shopping centre, at the bottom of Leith Walk and is apparently one of the busiest community centres in Edinburgh. Approximately 3,000 people use the centre every week! It has a decent sized sports hall, a smaller hall, 4 general purpose rooms, crèche, public computers with free internet access, lending library and a wee café. They have loads of groups using the space from youth groups, literacy support, carers support, outreach teaching, help with stopping smoking and support for people with a learning disability, dance classes, drama groups, history groups, art classes, martial arts and children 's movement classes. One group I notice on the poster board was 'Gleeith ' the new community singing group in Leith! Brilliant! Not something I 'll be joining with my crying cat voice, but I love the play of words! So I ventured there one snowy evening to try out a dance inspired class called 'Stretch and Tone '. You the enter the centre via the external steps and across a balcony, which could be tricky to find if you didn 't know the area. The centre was fairly utilitarian looking (most community centres are) but there have designed quirky windows features into the modern scheme which adds a bit of interest to the building. The class was good, but sadly only 2 of us braved the snowy conditions, but I 'm glad I did, I felt 2 inches taller after it! I picked up the centre brochure upon leaving so I may well return and check out some of the other classes they have available soon.

Great venue. Lots of classes available. Rooms for hire. Cafe in site. Great community space

The large community center is always bustling with activity. The big café hosts a variety of events, and there are several rooms available for different groups to meet. If you're looking for information about what's happening in the community, it's a great idea to stop by the office.

The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with everyone being friendly and supportive. It's clear that they couldn't find a minister who is as passionate about the revival as Bluett.

I apologize, but I'm unable to share details about when it was a private event.