The best road cycling routes around New Town/Broughton

There are over 560 road cycling routes available around New Town/Broughton. These routes cater to various skill levels, with a significant number being moderate or easy, alongside more challenging options.

Road cycling in New Town/Broughton offers a mix of urban exploration and natural features. You'll find routes through the elegant Georgian and Neoclassical streets, as well as paths leading to prominent hills like Calton Hill and Arthur's Seat, which provide rewarding climbs and panoramic views. The area features a good balance, with 185 easy routes, 311 moderate routes, and 68 difficult routes, ensuring options for varying elevation preferences.

The region is rich in landmarks and viewpoints. You can cycle past the iconic Arthur's Seat, enjoy views from Nelson Monument on Calton Hill, or explore the area around Corstorphine Hill Tower. Many routes offer stunning vistas of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth.

Yes, many road cycling routes in and around New Town/Broughton are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example is the popular Arthur’s Seat and Portobello Promenade loop from Edinburgh, which combines urban sights with coastal views.

Absolutely. New Town/Broughton offers 185 easy road cycling routes. These routes often feature mostly paved surfaces and can be shorter in duration, making them ideal for those new to road cycling or looking for a relaxed ride. The Braid Hills loop from Edinburgh is an easy option, covering 8.4 miles (13.5 km) with moderate elevation.

For experienced road cyclists seeking a challenge, there are 68 difficult routes in the area. These often involve significant elevation gain and longer distances. A notable challenging route is the Edinburgh to West Linton loop via Moor Road, which is 38.9 miles (62.6 km) long and features substantial climbing.

While road cycling generally involves shared roads, some routes around New Town/Broughton can be suitable for families, especially those with older children comfortable cycling on urban streets or designated paths. The Water of Leith Walkway, though some sections are unpaved, offers a greener, traffic-free escape that can be accessed from the New Town, providing a more relaxed environment away from city traffic.

The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in New Town/Broughton, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. However, the urban environment means routes are accessible year-round, though winter rides may require appropriate gear for colder, potentially wetter weather.

Yes, the area serves as an excellent starting point for longer excursions. Routes like the Hillhouse Hill (Bathgate Alps) – Cramond Brig loop from Haymarket extend over 64 km, offering a full day's ride through varied landscapes beyond the immediate city limits.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 380 reviews. Reviewers often praise the unique blend of historic Georgian architecture with accessible natural features like hills and coastal views, offering diverse cycling experiences from urban exploration to scenic climbs.

New Town/Broughton is well-connected by Edinburgh's public transport network, including buses and trams, making it easy to reach starting points for many road cycling routes. Many routes begin directly within the city, allowing for convenient access without needing a car.

Yes, you can find routes that extend towards the coast, offering refreshing sea views. The Fisherrow Harbour – The Meadows loop from Edinburgh Waverley is an example of a route that takes you towards coastal areas, combining urban and seaside cycling.