The best traffic-free bike rides around Penicuik And District

There are 13 dedicated traffic-free touring cycling routes around Penicuik And District. These routes offer a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options, ensuring there's something for every skill level.

Many of the traffic-free routes in Penicuik And District utilize former railway lines, providing relatively flat and smooth surfaces. You'll find a mix of paved paths and some unpaved sections, often winding through ancient woodlands, rolling pastures, and along rivers like the North Esk. Routes like the Roslin Glen Railway Tunnel – Penicuik Pond loop from Penicuik offer varied scenery.

Yes, Penicuik And District offers several easy, traffic-free routes suitable for families. The paths often follow old railway lines, which are generally flat and safe for younger riders. The Auchendinny Iron Bridge – Stone Tunnel loop from Penicuik is an easy option that provides a pleasant ride away from cars.

The routes often pass through scenic areas like the Pentland Hills Regional Park and Roslin Glen Country Park. You might encounter historical features such as the Dalkeith Palace and Gazebo, or enjoy views of reservoirs like Edgelaw Reservoir. The Glencorse Reservoir – Loganlea Reservoir loop from Easter Howgate is a great example of a route showcasing natural beauty.

Yes, many of the traffic-free routes in Penicuik And District are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Hare Burn Path loop from Penicuik offers a moderate circular ride through varied landscapes.

The traffic-free routes in Penicuik And District are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter cycling is possible, though some unpaved sections might be muddy or icy. Always check local conditions before heading out.

Penicuik is well-connected by local bus services, which can provide access to various starting points for cycling routes. While specific routes may not have direct public transport links at their exact start, many are accessible from Penicuik town centre or nearby villages, which are served by buses.

Parking is generally available in Penicuik town centre and at various points near the start of popular routes. Look for designated car parks in villages like Roslin or Easter Howgate, which often serve as convenient access points for the traffic-free paths.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 43 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, car-free nature of the routes, the stunning natural beauty of the Pentland Hills backdrop, and the historical points of interest found along the way.

For those seeking a longer and more challenging ride, the The Innocent Railway – Colinton Tunnel Mural loop from Penicuik is a difficult route spanning over 50 km. It offers an extensive traffic-free experience, often following old railway lines, and is perfect for experienced touring cyclists.