You can travel around Edinburgh using its large network of cycle lanes, which cover both the city itself and the many towns and villages in the surrounding area.
Edinburgh’s cycle paths
Many of Edinburgh’s cycle lanes run separately from the rest of the traffic, and pass through the city’s parks whenever possible, which makes getting around by bike very pleasant.
Using the cycle path network, you can ride through parks such as Holyrood Park, the Meadows or along the Water of Leith. It is also a great way to take a short trip from Edinburgh to the coast or nearby villages.
The Water of Leith walkway follows the river of the same name. It is a long green corridor that makes you feel far from the city, yet it crosses Edinburgh from one end to the other, with many exits to the neighbourhoods along the way, and connects to other cycle paths across the city.
Several old railway lines that ran through Edinburgh have also been turned into cycle paths. They act as bypasses for cyclists, letting you cross the city quickly and calmly on routes reserved for bikes and pedestrians.
Most of the network is well signposted. Bear in mind that distances are given in miles.
Bike hire in Edinburgh
Edinburgh has an e-bike hire scheme operated by Voi. To use it, you need to be over 18 and download the app on your phone.
It is handy for short trips around the city, especially to move between neighbourhoods without relying on the bus or tram. The bikes are electric, which really helps in a city with as many hills as Edinburgh.
Before you set off, check in the app where you can pick up and leave the bike, as you can’t always park it anywhere in the city. Check the current prices and terms of use in the app too.
If you’d rather have a traditional bike, or you are planning a longer ride, there are also private bike hire shops in different parts of the city.
Tips for cycling in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is becoming more and more bike-friendly, but there are a few things to bear in mind.
The historic centre, especially the Old Town, has lots of hills, narrow streets and cobbles, so a bike isn’t always the most comfortable option there. Neighbourhoods such as Marchmont, Bruntsfield, Leith, Stockbridge or the canal area are much nicer for cycling.
Remember that in the UK people drive on the left. If you are not used to it, start with quiet routes, parks or cycle paths away from traffic.
For safety, always use lights if you ride at night or in poor visibility. The weather in Edinburgh can change very quickly, so it’s a good idea to carry a waterproof or a light rain jacket.
Taking your bike on public transport
You can take your bike on the tram, except at peak times (Monday to Friday, 7.30–9.30am and 4–6.30pm). You also can’t take it during the August festivals or on days with big events, such as concerts or matches at Murrayfield.
Normally only two bikes per tram are allowed, always at the staff’s discretion. Board through the middle doors marked with a bike symbol.
On Edinburgh’s buses operated by Lothian Buses, the most common ones, only folding bikes inside a suitable carrying bag are allowed, and they must be stored safely in the designated space.
Cycling routes around Edinburgh
As well as cycling around the city, it’s well worth taking a bike trip to the areas around Edinburgh. From the centre, you can follow traffic-free, well-signposted and fairly flat paths. Here are some suggestions.
1. Edinburgh Haymarket to North Queensferry
Start National Cycle Route 1 (NCN 1) near Haymarket Station and head north to South Queensferry. The route is 10.5 miles (16.9 km) long, with very little traffic, along a wooded path that was originally a railway line. South Queensferry is a small town on the shores of the Firth of Forth, right next to the iconic red Forth Bridge.
You can then cross the Forth using the cycle lane on the Forth Road Bridge to reach North Queensferry, another small village on the other side of the water. Take time to explore both villages: they offer excellent views of the Forth Bridges from different angles.
From North or South Queensferry, you can return to Edinburgh along the same route, or catch a train to Haymarket or Waverley Station.
2. Edinburgh to Musselburgh
You can also follow NCN 1 out of Edinburgh in the opposite direction. You can join it at several points, including St Leonard’s Street, Greyfriars Kirkyard or the Meadows.
The route is well signposted and connects the city with the town of Musselburgh, to the east, about 5 miles (8 km) away, completely free from traffic.
Near the start, you will ride along an old railway line and through a 320-metre tunnel that was part of the historic Innocent Railway, built in 1831. Just before Musselburgh, you will also pass through the Queen Margaret University campus.
You can come back along the same route, or take the train from Musselburgh to Waverley Station.
3. Fountainbridge (Edinburgh) to Linlithgow
The Union Canal starts in Fountainbridge and runs from Edinburgh to the Forth & Clyde Canal, which links the Firth of Forth with the River Clyde.
A towpath for cyclists and walkers runs alongside the canal. It is completely flat with a generally good surface, although a few short cobbled stretches will test your bike-handling skills.
The path is not very wide, and within Edinburgh it is usually busy with walkers. As you leave the city, it gets much quieter, so you can pick up the pace.
It is about 35 km to Linlithgow, completely flat, but the surface can make it hard work in places.
We recommend a gravel or mountain bike. On a road bike, you’ll need to take care on the cobbles and muddy sections.
After exploring the lovely town of Linlithgow, with its spectacular palace by the loch, you can ride back along the canal or take a train to Haymarket or Waverley, which takes about 20 minutes.
Is cycling a good way to get around Edinburgh?
Yes, especially if you want to explore beyond the Royal Mile and the historic centre. A bike is a great way to discover parks, residential neighbourhoods and lesser-known paths.
To get around the Old Town or visit the main sights, walking is probably still the most comfortable option. But to see another side of Edinburgh, ride the Water of Leith or take a trip to South Queensferry or Musselburgh, a bike can be an excellent choice.