Edinburgh: Scenic Bike Tour

Key Points

• Duration and Price: This 3-hour guided bike tour costs $61 per person and offers fantastic value for those wanting an active way to explore Edinburgh.
• Highlights Include: You’ll pass the Scottish Parliament, cycle through Holyrood Park, walk up Arthur’s Seat, and discover Duddingston Loch with its secret garden.
• Guided Experience: Led by knowledgeable guides like Turlach or Frodo, the tours combine insightful storytelling with engaging routes.
• Bike Options: Regular bikes are included; e-bike upgrades are available for £15 per person, making hill climbs easier.
• Scenic Routes: Special features include biking along the Innocent Railway Path, enjoying views of Edinburgh Castle, and exploring Meadows Park.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Edinburgh: Scenic Bike Tour Overview

The Edinburgh: Scenic Bike Tour offered by Cycle Scotland delivers an energetic and visually rewarding way to see the city and its surroundings. This 3-hour guided adventure takes you from the historic Old Town out into the lush parks and volcanic landscapes just outside the city. Priced at $61 per person, it balances affordability with comprehensive sightseeing, making it suitable for active travelers who enjoy cycling and fresh air.

What makes this tour stand out is its mix of iconic sights, peaceful nature, and hidden gems like Duddingston’s secret garden. The experience is perfect for those who want a fast, engaging overview of Edinburgh’s highlights without the crowds of bus tours. The tour’s pace is manageable and includes stops for photos, stories, and short walks, giving a well-rounded sense of the city’s character.

From the Old Town to the Castle District

The tour begins at 29 Blackfriars Street, just off the Royal Mile, making it easy to find for visitors staying in the city center. Once everyone is equipped with a trekking bicycle and a helmet, the guide leads you through the historic streets towards the Scottish Parliament Building. As you pedal, the guide shares insights into Edinburgh’s political landscape and history.

Following the Royal Mile, the route passes Holyroodhouse Palace and offers breathtaking views of St. Anthony’s Chapel ruins. The ride then takes you up toward Holyrood Park, where the landscape begins to change from urban to natural. The highlight here is the ascent of Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano that offers sweeping panoramas of Edinburgh and beyond.

Walking to the Summit of Arthur’s Seat

Once at Holyrood Park, the tour pauses for a walk from Dunsapie Loch to the top of Arthur’s Seat. This ascent takes approximately 15-20 minutes on foot, and the path is accessible with a comfortable shoe choice. At the summit, travelers enjoy magnificent views of the city, coastline, and surrounding hills.

The walk provides a chance to stretch, take photos, and appreciate the volcanic landscape. Despite some reviews suggesting that hills can be challenging on regular bikes, the e-bike upgrade significantly eases the climb, making this part accessible without too much effort.

Returning via Salisbury Crags and Duddingston Loch

After descending Arthur’s Seat, the route continues on the bike along Salisbury Crags, where the views of Edinburgh Castle and the Old Town deepen the sense of history. The route then takes you toward Duddingston Loch, a peaceful spot away from the bustling city center.

Here, you’ll discover Duddingston’s secret oasis, known as Dudddington Manse and Dr. Neil’s Garden, described as a lush, tranquil haven. The guide explains the story behind this hidden garden, offering a quiet moment to relax amid beautiful grasses and trees.

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Cycling Along the Innocent Railway Path

From Duddingston Loch, the tour progresses along the Innocent Railway Path, a scenic cycling route built on an old railway line. This path provides a gentle, flat ride through Meadows Park, a lively green space filled with locals, and through the Grassmarket area, a historic market square with vibrant atmosphere.

The route concludes with a final stretch back into the city center, bringing travelers full circle to the starting point. This path is appreciated for its easy terrain and the variety of views it offers, from urban architecture to natural landscapes.

Practical Details: Bikes, Guides, and Booking

The included bicycles are regular trekking bikes, suitable for the majority of riders, with up to 29 gears available depending on preferences. For those concerned about hills, an electric bike upgrade is available for £15 per person, which has been praised in reviews for making the tour less physically demanding.

The guides are English-speaking and bring both knowledge and humor to the ride, as reflected in comments about their engaging storytelling and friendly demeanor. Turlach and Frodo are among guides noted for their entertaining and informative approaches.

The tour starts at the central meeting point, making it convenient for visitors. It guarantees a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance and allows booking with pay later options for flexibility.

Highlights of the Tour Experience

What makes this bike tour special are the stunning vistas of Edinburgh from Arthur’s Seat, the hidden beauty of Duddingston’s secret garden, and the dynamic mix of city streets and countryside paths. The guide’s storytelling, combined with the scenic routes, ensures a lively and memorable outing.

The capacity for customization with optional e-bikes makes this tour accessible to a broad range of visitors, whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or someone who prefers a more relaxed ride. Even in rainy weather, the enthusiastic guides keep spirits high, as noted in reviews praising their energy.

Concluding Thoughts on the Edinburgh Scenic Bike Tour

This 3-hour guided bike tour provides a value-packed way to explore Edinburgh’s key sights and natural beauty. Its well-planned route covers historic landmarks, leafy parks, and breathtaking viewpoints, making it ideal for active travelers who enjoy scenic travel with a bit of storytelling.

While some hills might challenge regular bike riders, the e-bike upgrade offers a simple solution and enhances the experience. The knowledgeable guides, like Turlach or Frodo, make the adventure both fun and informative.

This tour appeals most to those who want a blend of exercise, scenic beauty, and local insights. It’s a great choice for visitors seeking a lively, outdoor perspective of Edinburgh that covers much more than the usual tourist spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, especially if you opt for an e-bike upgrade, which makes hill climbs much easier.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes use of a trekking bicycle, a helmet, and the services of a guide.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 29 Blackfriars Street, just off the Royal Mile in Edinburgh.

How long is the walking part?
The walk to the top of Arthur’s Seat takes about 15-20 minutes.

What stops are included?
Major stops include the Scottish Parliament, Holyrood Park, Arthur’s Seat, Duddingston Loch, and the Innocent Railway Path.

Are electric bikes available?
Yes, at an additional £15 per person, and reviews highlight how much easier hills become with them.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, suitable shoes for walking, and a camera for the incredible views.

Is the tour accessible during bad weather?
Yes, guides maintain enthusiasm even in rain, and the tour can be adjusted accordingly.

How many people are in a group?
The tour is generally small, with reviews noting a personal experience, especially with guides like Turlach.

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