Lindsay was a son of William de Lindsay and Aleanora Limesay. Walter held the office of Constable or Sheriff of Berwick. Walter confirmed in a charter to Croyland Abbey, the churches of Fordington and Ulceby. He held the office of Justiciar of Lothian between 1206 and 1215. Walter also was the Scottish Ambassador for King Alexander II of Scotland to England in 1215. Walter joined the English barons against King John of England, who seized his lands in Huntingdonshire. Walter died in 1221. His widow was forced to marry Philip de Valognes in 1222 against her will.