The best cycling routes around Midlothian

Midlothian offers a good selection of touring cycling routes, with over 20 routes documented on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 13 easy, 6 moderate, and 1 difficult option, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Touring cyclists in Midlothian can enjoy a diverse range of landscapes. You'll find challenging terrains in the dramatic Pentland Hills and Moorfoot Hills, serene woodlands, and picturesque river valleys like the Esk Valley. The region also features rolling farmlands and tranquil reservoirs such as Gladhouse Reservoir, offering varied scenery throughout your ride.

Yes, Midlothian has several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. An example is the Tinley Creek Purple, Green, and Red Trails Loop, which is an easy 18.9-mile (30.4 km) trail navigating through varied natural settings. Another popular easy option is the Thorn Creek and Old Plank Road Trail Loop, offering a mix of creek-side scenery and repurposed rail trail sections.

Midlothian's routes often pass by significant natural features and historical landmarks. You might cycle near the scenic Pentland Hills, explore the Esk Valley with its charming gorges, or pass tranquil reservoirs like Gladhouse Reservoir. While specific routes vary, you could also find yourself near areas like Turtlehead Lake or through beautiful forested areas such as McClaughry Springs Woods and Forty Acre Woods.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Midlothian are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular example is the Orland Grassland loop, which is a 12.3-mile (19.7 km) trail through open grassland landscapes. Another option is the Saganashkee Slough – Cal-Sag Channel loop from Worth, a moderate 33.1 km route.

The touring cycling routes in Midlothian are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from challenging hills to serene valleys, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable experience. Over 200 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the area.

Yes, routes along the River North Esk are particularly good for exploring Midlothian's industrial heritage. These paths often pass through charming gorges and historical sites related to the region's past in mining and papermaking, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical insight.

Midlothian offers several family-friendly cycling options, particularly on dedicated cycleways and shared-use paths. The Penicuik to Dalkeith Walkway, for instance, is a 16km mostly off-road cycleway that extends through various towns and natural areas, connecting to other routes like the Pencaitland cycleway, making it suitable for families.

While Midlothian can be enjoyed year-round, spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. Autumn also provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly in Scotland.

Yes, Midlothian is traversed by significant long-distance cycle routes. The Coast to Castles cycle route (NCR1) and Route 196 both pass through the region, linking various towns and historical sites. These routes offer opportunities for longer touring adventures, connecting Midlothian to wider networks.

Midlothian Council actively supports walking and cycling, continually improving infrastructure and signage. For detailed information on paths and cycling facilities, you can consult the official Midlothian Council website. They provide an interactive map of paths and resources like a cycling factsheet. You can find more details at midlothian.gov.uk/walking_and_cycling.

Yes, from higher vantage points within Midlothian, particularly in the Pentland Hills, cyclists can enjoy expansive views. On clear days, these vistas can stretch to include Edinburgh and even North Berwick Law, offering rewarding panoramic scenes during your ride.