The best traffic-free bike rides around Craiglockhart

There are 17 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Craiglockhart, offering a variety of experiences for touring cyclists. These include paths along waterways, old railway lines, and through tranquil woodlands, ensuring a peaceful ride away from busy roads.

The routes around Craiglockhart offer diverse scenery. You can expect tranquil waterways like the Union Canal and Water of Leith, semi-natural woodlands, and unimproved grasslands. Many paths also provide superb panoramic views over Edinburgh, including iconic landmarks like Arthur's Seat and the distant Pentland Hills.

Yes, Craiglockhart offers 5 easy no-traffic touring cycling routes suitable for families. A great option is the Colinton Tunnel Murals – Colinton Tunnel Mural loop from Slateford, which is just over 12 km long and features the impressive Colinton Tunnel murals, making it an engaging ride for all ages.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes around Craiglockhart are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Innocent Railway – Portobello Promenade and Beach loop from Slateford offers a longer circular journey, while the Path Along the Union Canal – Slateford Aqueduct loop from Slateford provides an easy, scenic loop along the canal.

Several routes pass by or near interesting landmarks. You can cycle past the historic Glencorse Reservoir, or explore the Colinton Tunnel Mural. The area also features the Craiglockhart Grotto along the Water of Leith Walkway, offering a tranquil view of a small waterfall. For stunning vistas, consider routes that offer views of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth.

Many of the paths, particularly those along the Union Canal and Water of Leith Walkway, are popular with dog walkers and cyclists alike. While dogs are generally welcome, it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially in nature reserves like Easter Craiglockhart Hill, and be mindful of other path users.

The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic touring cycling routes around Craiglockhart, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility, the well-maintained paths, and the continuous scenic views, especially along the Union Canal and through the diverse woodlands.

Yes, Craiglockhart is well-connected to the National Cycle Network. Parts of NCN 75 pass through the area, often utilizing old railway lines, providing wide, well-surfaced, and relatively flat paths. You can follow NCN 75 to places like Balerno and even further afield, or connect to NCN 1 heading south.

Parking is available at various access points for the Union Canal and other cycle paths. For instance, routes starting from Slateford or Murrayfield Stadium, such as the Leamington Lift Bridge – Edinburgh Filmhouse loop from Murrayfield Stadium, often have nearby parking facilities. It's advisable to check local parking regulations before your trip.

Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions for cycling, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. However, the paths are accessible year-round. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, and even in winter, the well-surfaced paths can be enjoyed, though some unpaved sections might be muddy or require more robust tires.

Yes, many of the routes, particularly those along the Union Canal and connecting to urban areas, pass by or are close to cafes, pubs, and other amenities. The Union Canal towpath, for example, offers several spots for refreshments, making it easy to plan a stop during your ride.