The best road cycling routes around Royal Burgh Of Forfar
4.5
(17)
898
riders
62
rides
Road cycling routes around Royal Burgh Of Forfar traverse a diverse landscape, from the fertile lowlands of Strathmore Valley to rolling hills and the foothills of the Angus Glens. The region offers mostly paved surfaces, with some routes including unpaved segments. Cyclists can experience varied terrain, from the gentle paths around Forfar Loch to more challenging ascents towards the glens.
Best road cycling routes around Royal Burgh Of Forfar
- The most popular road cycling route is Aberlemno & Dunnichen loop…
Last updated: October 10, 2026
7
riders
26.7km
01:15
220m
220m
This easy 16.6-mile road cycling loop from Forfar offers historical sites, Montreathmont Forest, and views of the Grampian Hills.
23
riders
52.0km
02:08
260m
260m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
20
riders
45.5km
02:01
290m
290m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
8
riders
51.9km
02:27
470m
470m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
15
riders
22.1km
00:58
170m
170m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
A great collection of Pictish stones with some really informative displays.
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The Meigle Sculptured Stone Museum is a permanent exhibition of 27 carved Pictish stones in the centre of the village of Meigle in eastern Scotland. It lies on the A94 road running from Coupar Angus to Forfar. The museum occupies the former parish school, built 1844. The collection of stones implies that an important church was located nearby, or perhaps a monastery. There is an early historical record of the work of Thana, son of Dudabrach, who was at Meigle (recorded as Migdele) in the middle of the 9th century during the reign of King Pherath. Thana was likely to have been a monk serving as a scribe in a local monastery that could have been founded in the 8th century. The stones contained in the museum were all found near Meigle, mostly in the neighbouring churchyard or used in the construction of the old church. The present church building dates to about 1870, the previous building having been destroyed in a fire on 28 March 1869. The stones were rescued by William Galloway immediately after the fire. The stones are Christian monuments to the dead of the Pictish warrior aristocracy, who are depicted on the stones bearing their weapons or hunting. The museum The museum building was originally the village schoolhouse. The building was purchased by the local laird Sir George Kinloch towards the end of the 19th century in order to protect the symbol stones. In 1936 the museum passed into the ownership of the State, it was renovated after the Second World War and reopened to the public in 1949. The building is Category C listed. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meigle_Sculptured_Stone_Museum
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This stone, along with the nearby Aberlemno stones is thought to have been carved to depict the battle of Battle of Dun Nechtain. This happened around AD 680 and commemorated a decisive victory of the Picts over the Northumbrians. There is debate over where the battle actually took place, it was thought to be here, but evidence suggests that it may have actually been further north. Today you can visit this standing stone and create a loop to also visit Aberlemno. It's a nice ride from Forfar.
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The Aberlemno Sculptured Stones are four carved stones dating to between AD 500 & 800. This is during the Pictish time. There are four of these stones in the village, three stand on the roadside and the fourth is in the village churchyard.
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Forfar is the county town and administrative centre of Angus. The town dates to Roman occupation. It was a traditional market town and became industrial with the manufacture of linin and jute. Today the main work is either agriculture or tourism. It's a good base for a road cycling holiday allowing access to the coastal roads or the cairngorms.
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Comes upon you quite suddenly, it’s right in the centre of a small traffic island in front of the church.
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Arguably the historic precursor to Bannockburn in securing Scottish independence, the Battle of Dun Nechtain or Nechtansmere in 685ce halted the northern expansion of the Saxon Kingdom of Northumbria. A feigned retreat by the Picts drew the Northumbrians into an ambush at Dun Nechtain, believed to be the hill just to the NW of the modern village. The battle ended with a decisive Pictish victory which severely weakened Northumbria's power in northern Britain. The Northumbrian king was killed in the battle, along with the greater part of his army. The Pictish victory marked their independence from Northumbria, who never regained their dominance in the north.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of road cycling routes can I find around Royal Burgh Of Forfar?
The Royal Burgh of Forfar offers a diverse range of road cycling routes, from the fertile lowlands of the Strathmore Valley to rolling hills and the foothills of the Angus Glens. You'll find routes on mostly paved surfaces, with some options including unpaved or more challenging segments. There are over 60 routes available, catering to various fitness levels.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners or those looking for an easy ride?
Yes, there are plenty of options for easier rides. Around 25 of the routes are classified as easy, often traversing the quieter roads through fertile farmland in the Strathmore Valley. For example, the Aberlemno & Dunnichen loop from Forfar is an easy 16.6-mile (26.7 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 15 minutes to complete.
What are some scenic highlights or landmarks I can see while cycling near Forfar?
The region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can cycle past ancient Pictish stones like the Dunnichen Stone, explore the peaceful Forfar Loch Country Park, or enjoy panoramic views from Balmashanner Hill. The Aberlemno Stones – Aberlemno Sculptured Stones loop from Forfar is a moderate route that incorporates historical landmarks.
Are there any circular road cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Forfar are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. The Wooden Boardwalk – Forfar Witches Memorial loop from Forfar is a popular moderate circular path, and the Forfar – Forfar Driving Range Café loop from Kingsmuir also offers a scenic circular ride.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Royal Burgh Of Forfar?
The region offers pleasant cycling conditions for much of the year. Spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, especially with the changing colors of the landscape. Summer is also excellent, particularly for longer rides into the Angus Glens. While winter cycling is possible, be mindful of shorter daylight hours and potentially colder, wetter conditions.
Can I find routes with more challenging climbs or greater elevation gain?
Absolutely. While the Strathmore Valley offers gentler rides, heading north towards the Angus Glens will introduce you to more challenging terrain with significant elevation gains. Routes like the Aberlemno Stones – Aberlemno Sculptured Stones loop from Forfar, for instance, features over 500 meters of elevation gain, providing a good workout for experienced cyclists.
What do other road cyclists say about the routes in Royal Burgh Of Forfar?
The road cycling routes around Royal Burgh Of Forfar are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars from 4 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the quiet country roads, and the opportunity to combine scenic rides with visits to historical sites like the Pictish stones.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling options?
For families, the 4-kilometer (2.5 miles) circular path around Forfar Loch Country Park is an excellent, accessible option suitable for all abilities. While not exclusively a road cycling route, it offers a safe and enjoyable experience. For on-road cycling, quieter routes through the lowlands, such as those south of Forfar on Lour Road, are generally more suitable for families.
Where can I find places to eat or drink near the cycling routes?
Forfar itself offers various cafes and pubs. Many routes pass through or near villages where you might find local establishments. The Forfar – Forfar Driving Range Café loop from Kingsmuir, as its name suggests, includes a café stop, and other routes will bring you close to amenities in Forfar or surrounding towns.
Is there public transport available that can accommodate bikes?
While specific policies vary, local bus services in the Angus area may have limitations on carrying bikes, especially during peak times. It's always best to check with the individual bus operator beforehand. Efforts are also underway to create active travel routes, such as a planned path between Kirriemuir and Forfar, which aims to improve cycling accessibility.
Are there any road cycling routes that offer a 'fast' or 'time trial' section?
Yes, for those looking to test their speed, there are routes designed with this in mind. The Fast Time Trial Section loop from Forfar is a 36.4-kilometer (22.6 miles) route with minimal elevation gain, ideal for maintaining a high pace.
What are the road conditions like on the routes around Forfar?
The majority of road cycling routes around Forfar are on paved surfaces. The region's roads are generally well-maintained, especially the main arteries. However, some quieter country lanes may have varying surface quality. Always be mindful of agricultural vehicles, especially in the fertile Strathmore Valley.
Most popular routes around Royal Burgh Of Forfar
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