The best cycling routes around West End
4.6
(361)
5,753
riders
95
rides
Touring cycling around West End features a blend of urban green spaces, river paths, and coastal routes. The terrain often includes flat sections along waterways and former railway lines, interspersed with gentle inclines through parks and city outskirts. This region provides access to varied landscapes, from city landmarks to scenic waterfronts and open parklands.
Best touring cycling routes around West End
- The most popular touring cycling route is The Meadows – The Innocent Railway loop from Haymarket, an 11.8 miles (19.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 12 minutes to complete. This route connects urban green spaces with a converted railway path.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Old Almond Bridge – Culross Village loop from Haymarket, a difficult 58.8 miles (94.6 km) path. This longer route explores villages and varied terrain outside the immediate city.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Cramond Island Causeway – Wardie Bay loop from Haymarket, a 15.2 miles (24.4 km) trail leading through coastal areas, often completed in about 1 hour 27 minutes.
- Touring cycling around West End is defined by urban green spaces, river paths, and coastal sections. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy city loops to more challenging long-distance routes.
- The routes in West End are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 300 reviews. More than 5,000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore West End's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 1, 2026
4.9
(30)
303
riders
94.2km
05:42
670m
670m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(15)
229
riders
42.9km
02:35
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.1
(13)
223
riders
23.5km
01:26
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(15)
213
riders
26.3km
01:33
100m
100m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(8)
229
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
My plotted John Muir Way route took me to the Aquaduct, as the route to the Water of Leith Visitor centre is below, but to get there on this route you have to go down a long step section of steps. If your bike is loaded like mine was, 500m before this point there is a badly waymarked variation avoiding the steps, that goes through a street to the centre to rejoin the route.
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Link this up with the Innocent Railway for one of the nicest ways to get between Edinburgh and Musselburgh.
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that place is creepy as fuk at night but all down hill if going north so thats sick, its actually really nice, if my bike wasn't a bastard id enjoy that ride
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Save the Roseburn Path! There is a consultation online - proposals are underway to bulldoze the path and put trams in. https://consultationhub.edinburgh.gov.uk/sfc/tram-north-south/ Edinburgh has a wonderful network of off road cycling in a beautiful environment and they are planning to take it away. Keep Edinburgh green, keep our cycle spaces safe!
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A super nice tunnel that makes for a good photo stop. A great addition to your cycle journey through Edinburgh.
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This is a super photo stop. The tunnel is beautifully decorated with striking murals and is illuminated too so it sheds a bit more light on the topic!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in the West End area?
There are over 100 touring cycling routes around West End, offering a diverse range of experiences. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and challenging options to suit different skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect when touring cycling around West End?
Touring cycling around West End features a blend of urban green spaces, river paths, and coastal routes. The terrain often includes flat sections along waterways and former railway lines, interspersed with gentle inclines through parks and city outskirts. This provides access to varied landscapes, from city landmarks to scenic waterfronts and open parklands.
Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes in West End?
Yes, West End offers several family-friendly touring cycling routes. With 21 easy routes available, you can find paths suitable for all ages. These often include urban green spaces and converted railway paths, providing a safe and enjoyable experience.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes in West End?
Many of the touring cycling routes in West End are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the The Meadows – The Innocent Railway loop from Haymarket is a popular circular route connecting urban green spaces with a converted railway path.
What interesting sights or landmarks can I see along touring cycling routes in West End?
The West End area is rich in attractions. Depending on your chosen route, you could pass by significant landmarks such as Arthur's Seat, St Giles' Cathedral, or the Scott Monument. Many routes also offer scenic viewpoints like Corstorphine Hill Tower.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes in West End for experienced cyclists?
Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, West End offers 45 difficult routes. A notable example is the Old Almond Bridge – Culross Village loop from Haymarket, a long route exploring villages and varied terrain outside the immediate city.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in West End?
The touring cycling routes in West End are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 300 reviews. Cyclists often praise the blend of urban green spaces, scenic river paths, and coastal sections, as well as the variety of routes suitable for different abilities.
Are there routes that offer coastal views or access to beaches?
Yes, you can find touring cycling routes that lead to coastal areas and beaches. The Cramond Island Causeway – Wardie Bay loop from Haymarket is a great option for experiencing seaside views and coastal paths.
How long do touring cycling routes in West End typically take to complete?
Route durations vary significantly based on distance and difficulty. Shorter, moderate routes like the The Meadows – The Innocent Railway loop from Haymarket can be completed in just over an hour, while more difficult and longer routes, such as the Old Almond Bridge – Culross Village loop from Haymarket, may take several hours.
Can I find routes that incorporate converted railway paths?
Yes, converted railway paths are a feature of touring cycling in West End. The The Meadows – The Innocent Railway loop from Haymarket is a prime example, offering a smooth and often traffic-free cycling experience along a former railway line.
Are there any routes that pass through tunnels or unique historical structures?
For a unique experience, consider the Colinton Tunnel Mural – Loganlea Reservoir loop from Haymarket. This route features the impressive Colinton Tunnel Mural, offering an artistic and historical point of interest along your ride.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in West End?
While touring cycling can be enjoyed year-round, the spring and summer months generally offer the most pleasant weather for exploring West End's routes. Autumn also provides beautiful scenery, especially in the green spaces and parks.
Most popular routes around West End
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