Edinburgh: 20-mile cycle tour (mostly traffic free)

Edinburgh’s 20-Mile Cycling Loop: An Easy and Scenic City Adventure

This 20-mile cycle tour in Edinburgh offers a relaxed way to see the city’s most charming and historic areas while riding mostly on traffic-free paths. For $116 per person, the tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours and is suitable for anyone confident on a bike, making it ideal for visitors wanting a comprehensive yet manageable outdoor experience. The tour begins at Bridgend Farmhouse, conveniently located on the city’s cycle network, ensuring easy access regardless of your mode of transport.

Led by an experienced guide, this award-winning tour takes you through Edinburgh’s lush green spaces, along historic canals, and past scenic coastal spots. While most of the route is on paved, traffic-free paths, cyclists should be comfortable riding for 20 miles. The tour is designed for small groups, limited to 10 participants, allowing for personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Traffic-Free Cycling: The majority of the 20 miles are on paved, traffic-free cycle paths, making for a safe and comfortable ride.
• Iconic Stops: Key stops include Dean Village, Leith Harbour, Holyrood Park, and Portobello Beach.
• Variety of Scenery: Riders enjoy a mix of canal views, historic districts, green parks, and coastal scenery.
• Expert Guidance: The tour features a knowledgeable guide who shares insights about Edinburgh’s history and landmarks.
• Includes Equipment & Photos: The price covers a manual bike with gears, a helmet, and photos of your ride.
• Flexible Booking: Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, with options to reserve now and pay later.

Starting Point Near Edinburgh’s City Centre

The tour departs from Bridgend Farmhouse, positioned directly on the cycle path network and close to Edinburgh’s city centre. This location makes it simple to reach via public transport, Uber, or taxi. Arriving 15 minutes early ensures enough time to get fitted with your bike and gear. The site’s proximity to the city allows for an easy start to your day of cycling.

The meeting point is welcoming and accessible, setting the tone for a smooth, well-organized experience. The guide and staff prioritize safety and comfort, making it a good choice for those new to cycling or visitors unfamiliar with the area.

Riding Along Edinburgh’s Historic Canal Network

The route begins with a scenic passage through the grounds of Craigmillar Park and the thrilling Innocent Railway Tunnel. Riders then enjoy a leisurely ride through The Meadows, a large green space popular among locals and visitors alike. From there, the tour follows the Union Canal, which links Edinburgh to Glasgow, offering tranquil waters and scenic views.

The canal journey is one of the highlights, providing a peaceful, mostly traffic-free route with plenty of opportunities for photos. The canal’s historical significance adds depth to the experience, and the path is smooth and well-maintained for easy cycling.

Exploring Dean Village and the Water of Leith

After the canal, the tour visits Dean Village, a picturesque area known for its historic mill buildings and scenic riverside setting. This spot showcases Edinburgh’s charming past and offers excellent photo opportunities. The Water of Leith trail then leads riders toward Stockbridge, a vibrant neighborhood with cafes and shops, perfect for a quick refreshment stop.

This part of the journey emphasizes Edinburgh’s blend of natural beauty and historic architecture, providing a peaceful respite from city streets and a chance to appreciate the city’s quieter, more intimate corners.

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Cycling Past Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat

A major highlight is the stop at Holyrood Park, where the extinct volcano Arthur’s Seat dominates the landscape. This iconic feature offers stunning views over the city and is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. The guide shares insights about the park’s geological history and its significance to Edinburgh’s landscape.

Riders can take in the dramatic scenery and snap photos of the rugged terrain. This part of the tour underscores Edinburgh’s unique geological features and natural beauty, making it a memorable point of the journey.

Coastal Views and Relaxation at Portobello Beach

The final scenic stop is Portobello Beach, Edinburgh’s own city beach. Here, riders relax with a refreshment break and enjoy views of the North Sea. The beach provides a broad, sandy shoreline ideal for stretching, taking photos, or simply soaking in the seaside atmosphere.

This relaxing conclusion to the tour offers a different perspective of Edinburgh—the coastal edge—complementing the urban and green scenery experienced earlier.

Practical Details and What’s Included

The tour is approximately 4.5 to 5 hours long, covering 20 miles on mostly paved, traffic-free routes. Participants are provided with a manual bike with gears, a helmet, and photos of the ride. The small group size maximizes safety and personal attention, with a limit of 10 participants.

The activity is suitable only for those confident on a bike and over 12 years old, as safety and control are essential. It’s advisable to bring water and rain gear, especially given unpredictable weather. Upgrading to an E-bike is available for an extra £20, with proceeds supporting a community project.

Accessibility and Physical Requirements

The route’s mainly paved surfaces and traffic-free paths make for an accessible ride, but the full 20 miles require a reasonable level of cycling confidence. Riders should be comfortable riding on city paths and navigating minor inclines. The activity is not suitable for children under 12 or for those unable to ride a bike independently.

The Guide and Tour Experience

The tour features a live English-speaking guide who shares stories and insights about Edinburgh’s history, landmarks, and natural features. As noted in reviews, guides like Jill are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and clear communication. They make riders feel safe and appreciated, often feeling like riding with a knowledgeable friend.

The tour’s focus on making the experience fun, informative, and safe makes it stand out among city cycling options. The route’s careful planning along former railway tracks and canal paths provides a mostly traffic-free environment, ideal for a relaxed exploration.

Comparing with Similar Edinburgh Cycling Tours

While other tours may focus on specific sights or offer longer or shorter routes, this 20-mile loop provides a rundown of Edinburgh from a cyclist’s perspective. The small group size and local guide ensure a personalized and engaging experience. The inclusion of stops at Dean Village, Holyrood Park, and Portobello Beach makes it diverse and scenic without feeling rushed.

The tour’s emphasis on safety, comfort, and storytelling makes it appealing to both locals and visitors looking for a relaxed yet comprehensive way to see Edinburgh by bike.

Final Thoughts on the Edinburgh Cycling Tour

This traffic-free 20-mile cycling loop offers a well-balanced glimpse of Edinburgh’s natural beauty, historic districts, and coastal scenery. The expert guide, combined with manageable pacing and scenic stops, makes it an excellent choice for those seeking an active outdoor experience.

While the ride covers a significant distance, the mostly paved paths and small group size make it accessible for confident cyclists. The $116 price includes bike hire, helmet, photos, and guided commentary, providing good value for a full day of exploration.

This tour suits adventurous travelers with cycling experience who want to see Edinburgh from a different perspective, away from crowded streets. It’s especially ideal for those interested in combining outdoor activity with cultural and scenic highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This activity is not suitable for children under 12 years or for those unable to ride a bike confidently.

What should I bring on the tour?
Participants should bring water and rain gear to stay comfortable during the ride.

Can I upgrade to an E-bike?
Yes, E-bike upgrades are available for £20 and support a community project.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4.5 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at Bridgend Farmhouse, close to Edinburgh’s city centre.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its traffic-free routes, small group size, and expert local guide make it a standout way to explore Edinburgh on two wheels.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby