The best cycling routes around Longstone

There are over 700 touring cycling routes around Longstone, Edinburgh, catering to various skill levels. This includes more than 370 easy routes, over 240 moderate routes, and more than 170 difficult routes for experienced cyclists.

Yes, Longstone offers several family-friendly routes, particularly along the Water of Leith and Union Canal, which often feature dedicated, traffic-free paths. An excellent option is the Water of Leith Walkway – Colinton Tunnel Murals loop from Colinton, an easy 9.5-mile (15.4 km) path that follows the scenic river and passes by notable murals.

Cycling around Longstone, Edinburgh, you'll experience a mix of urban green spaces, historic waterways like the Water of Leith and the Union Canal, and suburban areas. Routes often feature structures such as the Slateford Aqueduct and connect various parks and local landmarks, offering a blend of paved and traffic-free sections.

Many of the touring cycling routes around Longstone are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. For example, the The Innocent Railway – Portobello Promenade and Beach loop from Slateford is a popular 18.8-mile (30.3 km) moderate route that combines urban paths with coastal views.

The Longstone area is close to several interesting landmarks and viewpoints. You can cycle towards natural monuments like Arthur's Seat or Scald Law Summit for panoramic views. Other points of interest include the Corstorphine Hill Tower and the historic St Giles' Cathedral in central Edinburgh.

The touring cycling routes in Longstone are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 1,300 reviews. Cyclists often praise the accessibility of the routes, the scenic paths along the Water of Leith and Union Canal, and the variety of urban and green spaces available.

For a longer and more challenging ride, you could consider starting from Wester Hailes for the Balerno Hill Summit – Water of Leith Walkway loop from Wester Hailes. This difficult 24.6-mile (39.6 km) trail leads through varied terrain, including the Water of Leith valley, and offers a significant elevation gain.

Yes, the Union Canal and the impressive Slateford Aqueduct are prominent features in the Longstone area. A route that specifically highlights these is the Path Along the Union Canal – Slateford Aqueduct loop from Slateford, an easy 12.6-mile (20.3 km) loop perfect for exploring these historic waterways.

While cycling is possible year-round, the spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling in Longstone, Edinburgh, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though weather can be more unpredictable.

Absolutely. Longstone's location in Edinburgh means many routes seamlessly blend urban environments with natural beauty. You can cycle through residential areas, along historic canals, and into green parks, often with views of the city and surrounding hills, providing a diverse cycling experience.

For those seeking a significant challenge, the Colinton Tunnel Murals – Colinton Tunnel Mural loop from Slateford is a demanding 56.3-mile (90.5 km) route. This difficult tour offers an extensive exploration of the area, suitable for experienced touring cyclists looking for a full-day adventure.