The best cycling routes around Old Town
4.4
(403)
5,080
riders
105
rides
Touring cycling routes around Old Town, Edinburgh, offer a diverse landscape ranging from urban paths along historic streets to routes extending into the nearby Pentland Hills. The terrain includes gentle gradients along waterways and through parks, with some routes featuring more significant elevation gains as they approach the surrounding hills and reservoirs. The area provides a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, catering to various cycling preferences.
Best touring cycling routes around Old Town
- The most popular touring cycling route…
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.2
(35)
145
riders
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.6
(30)
158
riders
71.9km
04:29
490m
490m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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4.4
(8)
21
riders
12.5km
00:49
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(36)
588
riders
69.9km
04:12
320m
320m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(18)
172
riders
45.0km
02:54
340m
340m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Excellent surface however the tar is very narrow so be careful with the walkers and doggie brigade. The far end is closed for the building of the DC link to Engerlind ….
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Watch out as this has a reputation as a pick up joint…
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Use your lights and watch out for dogs on long leashes
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Amazing street art on a well maintained tunnel taking you past Arthur's Seat and into the city.
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It's a narrow path used by a variety of modalities (dogs, prams, people on mobiles, bikes too) in both directions, so it's best incorporated into a leisurely spin rather than a training ride and certainly not a group ride. Some sections have tree roots vigorously breaking out of the tarmac and can get pretty bumpy.
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Stunning views. Path gets very gravelly so care needed if you are less experienced off-road
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available 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.
What are the difficulty levels of touring cycling routes in Old Town?
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.
What do other cyclists enjoy most about touring cycling in Old Town?
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.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Old Town?
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.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
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.
What are some challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
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.
What kind of scenery can I expect on touring cycling routes around Old Town?
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.
Are there any historical landmarks or natural sights to see along the routes?
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.
Can I combine cycling with exploring castles around Old Town?
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.
How can I access the touring cycling routes from Edinburgh city center?
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.
Are there routes that allow me to explore urban green spaces?
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.
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