Duration: Up to 2.5 hours
A two to two a half hour bike tour (12 km) through the heart of historic Edinburgh with wide views across the city’s dramatic skyline: a gentle cycle along cobbled streets and through leafy parks with frequent stops to hear about the history, culture and people of Scotland’s capital city.
The tour begins on the waterfront in the Port of Leith. From there we follow Edinburgh’s river, the Water of Leith, on a tree-lined cycleway that leads into the heart of the city, a UNESCO world heritage site. A gentle climb through the streets of Edinburgh’s historic New Town brings us to St Andrew’s Square in the city centre. From here we wheel our bikes along Princes Street, enjoying spectacular views of Edinburgh Castle and the medieval Old Town.
Next there’s a slow roll down the Royal Mile to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Queen Elizabeth’s official residence in Scotland. From the Scottish Parliament building we cycle through the Queen’s Park and past the picturesque ruins of Holyrood Abbey.
We push the bikes up Abbeymount then spin through Royal Terrace Gardens on a high path with views out across the city. From there quiet lanes and backstreets lead back towards Leith. Finally we pick up the cycleway again and follow the Water of Leith through St Mark’s Park back to our starting point. We think it’s a great way to see one of the most dramatic cities in the world: perfect for your first day in Edinburgh.
Where:
Category: Half day guided tours
Start and Finish Place: Starts and finishes at our office in Leith
Distance: 7 miles / 12 km
Terrain: There are a couple of short climbs on this tour, both of which can be walked in just a few minutes if you prefer to get off the bike. Otherwise it’s a mixture of flat and downhill.
Traffic: Mostly off-road on cycle paths but please note this tour does take us through the heart of the city and busy roads are unavoidable. We walk some of this as we tell you about the places we are seeing, and no one should feel worried about this section as we take it slowly and carefully to ensure your safety at all times.
When:
Total time: Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours
Start and finish time: Starts at 10:00 and finishes 2 to 2.5 hours later
Grade: Easy/Moderate
This route mainly uses cycle paths, but has some sections on roads. This route is suitable for children (16 years plus) confident handling a bike, fit and able to ride for two to three hours.
We recommend our Private Tour "Family Tour Suitable for Kids" for families with younger children (under 14).
12B Timberbush, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 6QF
When you have booked and paid please consider your tour confirmed unless you
hear otherwise.
We recommend our Private Tour "Family Tour Suitable for Kids" for families with younger children (under 14).
TIMING
Please make sure you arrive ten minutes before the start time so the group
can depart on time. If you are late you may miss the tour.
LOCATION
All tours depart from our office at 12B Timberbush, Leith, Edinburgh.
Please note:
There is no car parking available at our office. The best way to get to us from central Edinburgh is to take the tram going to Newhaven(NOT Airport) and get off at the Constitution Street stop. Turn left and walk 100 metres along Commercial Street. Timberbush is the first cobbled lane on the right. Allow 20-30 minutes for the journey. You can also catch a number 16 bus from Princes Street. Tell the driver you want to get off at The Shore. For more info on buses please Google Lothian Buses.
As you are cycling in Scotland it is a good idea to dress for all weathers!
Please bring a waterproof jacket, hat and gloves and waterproof trousers if
rain is forecast.
Do not wear jeans as these are not comfortable for riding.
Tuck in your shoe laces so they cannot catch on the pedals.
Bring some water and some money for a cafe stop with you.
If you have any medical conditions we should know about please let us know in
advance.
We look forward to meeting you and showing you a bit of Edinburgh by bike.
Meanwhile, please don't hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions.
When you have booked and paid please consider your tour confirmed unless you
hear otherwise.
We recommend our Private Tour "Family Tour Suitable for Kids" for families with younger children (under 14).
TIMING
Please make sure you arrive ten minutes before the start time so the group
can depart on time. If you are late you may miss the tour.
LOCATION
All tours depart from our office at 12B Timberbush, Leith, Edinburgh.
Please note:
There is no car parking available at our office. The best way to get to us from central Edinburgh is to take the tram going to Newhaven(NOT Airport) and get off at the Constitution Street stop. Turn left and walk 100 metres along Commercial Street. Timberbush is the first cobbled lane on the right. Allow 20-30 minutes for the journey. You can also catch a number 16 bus from Princes Street. Tell the driver you want to get off at The Shore. For more info on buses please Google Lothian Buses.
As you are cycling in Scotland it is a good idea to dress for all weathers!
Please bring a waterproof jacket, hat and gloves and waterproof trousers if
rain is forecast.
Do not wear jeans as these are not comfortable for riding.
Tuck in your shoe laces so they cannot catch on the pedals.
Bring some water and some money for a cafe stop with you.
If you have any medical conditions we should know about please let us know in
advance.
We look forward to meeting you and showing you a bit of Edinburgh by bike.
Meanwhile, please don't hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions.