The best cycling routes around Old Town

There are over 100 touring cycling routes available around Old Town, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists of all levels.

The routes around Old Town cater to various abilities. You'll find approximately 18 easy routes, 36 moderate routes, and 52 difficult routes, ensuring options for beginners to experienced cyclists.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 380 reviews. Cyclists often praise the mix of historic urban streets, scenic waterways, and the rolling hills of the Pentland Hills, offering varied terrain and beautiful views.

Yes, several circular routes are available. For instance, the Glencorse Reservoir loop from Edinburgh Waverley – Pentland Hills Regional Park is a popular 26.7-mile option that takes you through the scenic Pentland Hills. Another is the Braid Burn Path loop from Edinburgh Waverly, which is an easier 7.8-mile trail through urban green spaces.

Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for beginners or families. The Braid Burn Path loop from Edinburgh Waverly is an excellent choice, leading through urban green spaces and typically completed in under an hour. Many of the 18 easy routes offer gentle gradients and pleasant surroundings.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Edinburgh to Hartington via Dalkeith Park is a difficult 44.7-mile path featuring varied terrain and significant elevation changes. Another demanding option is the Glencorse Reservoir loop from Edinburgh Waverley – Pentland Hills Regional Park, which includes over 400 meters of elevation gain.

You can expect a diverse landscape, from historic urban paths through Edinburgh's Old Town to routes extending into the natural beauty of the Pentland Hills. Many routes follow waterways, pass through parks, and offer views of reservoirs and rolling hills.

Absolutely! The area is rich in both natural and historical attractions. You can cycle past natural monuments like Arthur's Seat and enjoy views from Corstorphine Hill Tower. Historical sites include Holyrood Palace and Dalkeith Palace, which can be incorporated into your rides.

Yes, several routes allow you to cycle near or past historical castles and palaces. For example, routes that pass through Dalkeith Park will bring you close to Dalkeith Palace. While not directly on a route, Holyrood Palace is also easily accessible from many city-based cycling paths.

Many routes conveniently start from central locations like Edinburgh Waverley. For example, the Scott Monument – The Innocent Railway loop from Edinburgh Waverley and the Victoria Street – The Innocent Railway loop from Edinburgh Waverley both begin near the city center, making them easily accessible by public transport or bike.

Definitely. The Braid Burn Path loop from Edinburgh Waverly is a prime example, offering a pleasant ride through urban green spaces. Many other routes also incorporate parks and green corridors within the city, providing a refreshing escape from the urban environment.