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

If you’re looking for a way to see Edinburgh that’s a little different from walking tours or bus rides, a 20-mile cycle tour might just be your ticket. We haven’t done this one ourselves, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed info from the provider, it seems like a fantastic way to experience the city’s highlights on two wheels.

What really stands out are the mostly traffic-free paths and the chance to visit areas you might miss on foot, like the tranquil canal routes and the charming Leith Harbour. Plus, the guide’s local knowledge adds a layer of richness to the experience. That said, it’s not ideal for everyone—this tour is best suited for confident cyclists and those who enjoy a leisurely ride.

A key consideration is the distance—20 miles in around 4.5 hours means a fair amount of pedaling, so some level of cycling confidence is necessary. If you’re not comfortable on a bike or have limited fitness, this might be more challenging than it looks. Still, for those who love a scenic bike adventure and want to cover a good bit of ground, it’s a solid choice.

In all, this tour feels perfect for travelers who want to see Edinburgh’s best without feeling rushed or crowded. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a mix of scenic beauty, historical spots, and a relaxed pace that lets you soak in the views.

Key Points

• Mostly traffic-free cycling paths make for a safe and enjoyable ride through Edinburgh.
• The tour covers a diverse range of sights—from historic Dean Village to seaside Portobello.
• Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, adding context and making the ride feel like exploring with a friend.
• The 20-mile loop offers plenty of opportunities for photos and interesting stops.
• This experience is best suited for confident cyclists due to the distance and terrain.
• It’s a great option for those who want a relaxed, scenic overview of the city and coastline.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Edinburgh on Two Wheels

A bike tour that covers around 20 miles along mostly traffic-free paths offers a different perspective on Edinburgh. It’s a chance to see the city’s lush green spaces, historic waterways, and lively coastal areas without the hustle and bustle of busy streets. From the start at Bridgend Farmhouse, right on the cycle network, the route is designed for comfort, safety, and fun, whether you’re a local or visiting.

Starting at Bridgend Farmhouse, the tour begins with a ride through Craigmillar Park, which is pretty if you enjoy tree-lined streets and quiet neighborhoods. From there, you’ll venture into the Innocent Railway Tunnel, an interesting feature that adds a bit of adventure to the journey. The route then takes you through the open expanses of The Meadows, a favorite green space for locals.

The Canal and the Charm of Dean Village

One of the highlights is cycling along the Union Canal, a peaceful waterway that once linked Edinburgh to Glasgow. Riding along this Victorian-built canal, you’ll feel a sense of history and tranquility. Many reviews mention how much people appreciate the paved paths and how well they are maintained, making the ride smooth and relaxed.

Dean Village is another must-see stop. This tiny, picture-perfect area offers stunning views and a glimpse into Edinburgh’s past. The peaceful watermill setting and historic buildings make it a favorite photo spot, and guides often share stories that bring the place to life. As one reviewer shared, their guide made each stop feel like exploring with a friend, adding a personal touch to the experience.

Exploring Leith and Portobello

After crossing the Water of Leith, the route takes you into Stockbridge, another charming neighborhood full of cafes and boutique shops. Then, you’ll head toward Leith Harbour, the port area with a lively maritime vibe. Many travelers love this part of the ride because it offers a mix of historic docks and modern cafes, perfect for a quick refreshment.

The final stretch takes you to Portobello Beach, Edinburgh’s own seaside escape. Here, you’ll have a chance to relax, snap some photos of the coast, and enjoy a well-earned drink or snack. The beach is a lovely ending point, especially if the weather cooperates—it’s an ideal spot to unwind and soak in the view.

What to Expect During the Tour

Duration and Group Size: The ride lasts about 4.5 hours, covering 20 miles. The group is limited to 10 participants, so it’s small enough to ask questions and enjoy a personalized experience. You’ll want to arrive about 15 minutes early for bike fitting.

What’s Included: The tour offers manual bikes with gears, helmets, a guide, and photos of your ride—great for reliving the memories later. If you prefer an electric bike, you can upgrade for an additional fee, which makes the ride easier, especially if you’re a little out of practice or want to conserve energy.

What to Bring: Bring water to stay hydrated and rain gear just in case, since Edinburgh’s weather can be unpredictable. The paths are mostly paved or gravel, so comfort is key.

Suitability: The tour is not suitable for children under 12 or those who can’t ride a bike confidently. It’s designed for people with a certain level of cycling ability, given the distance and terrain.

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The Experience: From Scenic Paths to Historic Highlights

Many reviewers have raved about the guides’ local knowledge. Jill, one of the guides, is repeatedly praised for making the journey fun, safe, and informative. She’s described as friendly and professional, making everyone feel at ease, especially when navigating the road sections.

The stops are well-chosen, with each offering a chance to learn something new about Edinburgh. Whether it’s the rail trail tunnel, the aqueduct, or simply the views along the North Sea coast, there’s plenty to keep your camera busy. Several reviews mention how much they appreciated the photo opportunities, especially along the canal and near Arthur’s Seat.

The Value of the Tour

At $116 per person, the price includes a guided experience, bike rental, helmet, photos, and a carefully curated route. Considering the length and the number of sites visited, many see it as reasonable, especially since it provides a rundown of the city and coastline in a manageable format.

Final Thoughts

This Edinburgh cycle tour is a fantastic way to explore the city and coast in a relaxed, scenic manner. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy cycling and want a bit of adventure without feeling rushed. The mostly traffic-free paths, coupled with expert guides, make for a safe and enjoyable experience.

The ride balances history, nature, and local flavor, making it perfect for travelers who want to see beyond the typical tourist spots. If you’re confident on a bike and eager to cover a lot of ground, this is definitely worth considering.

However, keep in mind the distance and terrain, which could be challenging for some. If you’re not a confident cyclist or have limited time, you might prefer shorter or different tours. But for those ready to pedal along scenic routes and discover Edinburgh’s hidden corners, this tour promises a memorable day out.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour isn’t recommended for children under 12, mainly because of the distance and the need for confidence on a bike.

Can I upgrade to an E-bike?
Yes, you can upgrade to an E-bike for an additional £20. This might make the ride easier and more comfortable if you prefer pedal assist.

How long does the tour last?
The ride takes approximately 4.5 hours, including stops for sightseeing and photos.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Bridgend Farmhouse, which is conveniently located on the cycle path network and close to Edinburgh’s city center.

What should I bring?
Bring water, rain gear, and a camera. Comfort and weather preparedness are key since Edinburgh’s weather can change suddenly.

Is the group small or large?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, making it more intimate and allowing for personalized attention from the guide.

What if I can’t ride a bike confidently?
You might find this tour challenging if you’re not comfortable on a bike, as the route covers a fair distance and includes some road sections.

If you enjoy cycling, scenic views, and exploring at a leisurely pace, this Edinburgh bike tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the city’s highlights and hidden gems. It’s a solid choice for those who want to combine activity with sightseeing, all on mostly traffic-free paths.

You can check availability for your dates here: