I Want to Ride my Bicycle!

Edinburgh cycle routes and trails

What better way to explore Edinburgh than by bike? At Parliament House Hotel, we’re centrally located, and a short stroll from Edinburgh attractions, theatres and restaurants. So, there’s no need for a car. By exploring this beautiful city on bike, you’ll be doing your bit for the environment too. With a wide range of cycle routes in Edinburgh to choose from, you’ll be able to discover every corner of our vibrant city. Check out bike hire options at Cycle Scotland in the city centre or Biketrax in the West End.

Holyrood Park

if you want to enjoy some dramatic landscapes and don’t mind a bit of an uphill pedal, the traffic-free Holyrood Park is perfect. Here, you can soak up the stunning views across Edinburgh. Or, stop off for a picnic surrounded by nature.

View of Holyrood Park in Ednburgh on a sunny day

Water of Leith

The Water of Leith Walkway is a footpath and cycle route, which follows the Water of Leith river from the west of Edinburgh, through the city centre and down to Leith. It is a peaceful pathway, even though it goes through the city. And it passes many points of interest along the way, such as Colinton Tunnel, Saughton Park, Murrayfield Stadium, Scottish Gallery of Modern Art, Dean Village and the Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh. 

Sunset at Dean Village on the Water of Leith

Union Canal

For a tranquil and easy trip along the Union Canal, head from Lochrin Basin at Fountainbridge and enjoy a flat eight-mile ride to Ratho. 

Woman behind tall grass cycling along the Union Canal in Edinburgh

Innocent Railway Tunnel

The Innocent Railway Tunnel was once part of a busy railway line, and was actually the first railway tunnel in Scotland! You can access the tunnel from Holyrood Park Road, near the entrance Holyrood Park.

The Meadows and Bruntsfield Links

In the south of the city centre, The Meadows and Bruntsfield Links are large green areas with a network of walking and cycle paths.

Tree-lined pathway through The Meadows park in Edinburgh

Cramond Loop

If you fancy a longer traffic-free ride, the Cramond Loop is very picturesque. Stop off at Cramond Falls for a photo and a slice of homemade cake at the café. There is a large, wide promenade at Cramond, which is great for cycling along the beachfront.

Boats in Cramond Harbour

Blackhall and Roseburn Path

This walking and cycling trail connects the areas of Davidson’s Mains and Murrayfield in the west of Edinburgh. The Blackhall and Roseburn Path begins near the picturesque grounds of Lauriston Castle, which is also worth a visit.

Lauriston Castle Gardens on a sunny day

Coast and Castles Route

For a longer ride, the Coast and Castles Route between Edinburgh and Newcastle is a beautiful way to see stunning vistas and historic sites. You don’t have to cycle all the way to Newcastle, but could complete the section from Dalkeith to Edinburgh. Dalkeith Country Park is a great place to visit en route, with its own waymarked trails.

View of bridge and house at Dalkeith Country Park

Edinburgh Festival of Cycling

If you’re looking to take part in a cycle event in Edinburgh, there are many happening throughout the year. In summer, the city hosts the Edinburgh Festival of Cycling, which celebrates bike culture and the city. All ages and abilities are encouraged to take part. And as well as cycle tours and events, there are film screenings, talks and workshops.

Cyclists at the start of a race

Edinburgh Bike Tours

For a guided tour of the city by bike, book a ride with Edinburgh Bike Tours and leave the route to the experts. They’ll take you along some of the best cycling trails in Edinburgh. Exploring hidden gems and historic monuments on the way.

Cycling past ducks on the Union Canal towpath

So, there’s no excuse to not get on your bike and explore our beautiful capital city. Choose from the many cycle routes in Edinburgh and discover its natural beauty, historic sites, theatres, galleries and shops by the power of the pedal.