4.7
(18)
171
riders
15
rides
Mountain biking around Eskbank / Newbattle offers diverse landscapes, characterized by densely wooded valleys, river systems, and varied terrain. The area features the North Esk Valley, known for its high nature conservation interest, and the River North Esk and River South Esk. Riders can explore routes through mature tree cover, including those within Dalkeith Country Park and the grounds of Newbattle Abbey. This region provides a mix of trails, from gentle paths to more challenging climbs, suitable for different skill…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
3.0
(1)
5
riders
46.3km
03:21
530m
530m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(1)
21
riders
45.8km
03:10
550m
550m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

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4.6
(5)
9
riders
45.0km
02:44
340m
340m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
96.4km
05:54
990m
990m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
10
riders
31.8km
01:58
180m
180m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Fine to ascend / descend on a gravel bike. May need to hike a small 20m section depending on tyre width as the stones get a bit bigger for a small section, would be fine to ride down though
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Fine to ascend / descend on a gravel bike, not easy though :). There may be a small 20m section you have to hike depending on your tyre width as the stones get a bit bigger for a small section
0
0
Great descent on a gravel bike, smooth but with some little drops from the occasional step. Very fun!
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Small chapel at the exit of the village perched on a rocky spur, magnificent!
1
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The tarmac cycle path following the river Tweed from Glentress makes Innerleithen super accessible which in turn provides you with free range to pedal the ‘old’ XC & DH trails, it also provides easy access to the current ‘trendy’ gravity orientated hot spot of Golfie, named so, as it’s situated above the golf course. First off the Old XC, (starts from the carpark over the bridge by the river) it was very sad to see the current trashed & sorry state of what appears to be the forgotten XC Trail, after having ridden it many times since the early eighties! The long climb at the start is currently cut short & diverted with no access up to the top from what I could see? The remainder of the trails are just trashed with the mighty Caddon Bank DH a shadow of its former self. Golfie is an easy pedal across the village with some great coffee stop opportunities enroute. One in particular Findra on the high st deserves a Big shout out, it’s stylish, MTB rider (muddy bum) friendly, sells fantastic coffee & food has uber cool curated music. Oh it also sells very cool artisan made clothing. There are others in the village which all look fab but Findra was the one we stopped at. The Findra staff ride mountain bikes, are super friendly & great for local riding knowledge 😉👍 Golfie is a short pedal through the village towards the Golf club & then a longish pedal up a Forest road with ‘natural’ trails spilling off the side of the hill in varying degrees of difficulty. Be prepared for full on gnar, chunder, roots, very steep drop offs & lots n lots of muddy gloop if the weather has not been kind. No manicured trails here! If you keep pedalling you’ll eventually reach the old reservoir where the views are magnificent & several trail go off in several directions. My advice, if it’s your first time riding Golfie try & take someone who’s ridden it before as some of the trails start off very benign but then transform like Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde! Wear body armour that allows you to pedal, but all the same wear body armour😜👍
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0
I had my head torch which only just let me see through the pitch blackness. I wouldn't want to come through here late at night as it's very creepy.
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There are 15 mountain bike routes around Eskbank / Newbattle listed on komoot. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy rides to more challenging trails.
Yes, the area offers trails suitable for beginners and families. For instance, the "Eskbank > Penicuik Trailway" is a popular green difficulty dirt/gravel road, ideal for those new to mountain biking or riding with children. Additionally, the Rosearista Coffee Shop – View of the Countryside loop from Dalkeith is an easy-rated route, perfect for a relaxed ride.
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 2 difficult-rated routes. An example is the Neidpath Tunnel – Innerleithen XC Trail loop from Eskbank, which covers nearly 100 km with significant elevation gain, requiring very good fitness and advanced riding skills.
Yes, many trails in the Eskbank / Newbattle area are dog-friendly. The "Eskbank > Penicuik Trailway" is specifically noted as being suitable for dogs. Always ensure your dog is under control and check specific trail regulations, especially within parks like Dalkeith Country Park.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in the area are circular. For example, the Gladhouse Reservoir & Roslin Chapel loop from Eskbank and the Pentland Hills Access Road – Maidens Cleugh Climb loop from Eskbank are both popular circular routes, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.
The trails often pass through scenic natural features like the densely wooded North Esk Valley and along the River North Esk and River South Esk. You can also explore historic parklands such as Dalkeith Country Park and the grounds of Newbattle Abbey. For specific landmarks, consider visiting Arthur's Seat or enjoying the View from Allermuir Hill, which are nearby attractions.
While specific viewpoints on every trail aren't detailed, routes like the Pentland Hills Access Road – Maidens Cleugh Climb loop from Eskbank offer scenic views towards the Pentland Hills. The region's varied terrain, including river valleys and elevated sections, provides many opportunities for picturesque vistas.
Parking is generally available at key access points for trails and within popular attractions like Dalkeith Country Park. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the route details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking information.
Eskbank and Newbattle are well-connected. The National Cycle Route (NCN 196) from Penicuik to Dalkeith provides connectivity for cyclists, and local bus services operate in the area. For specific trailheads, you may need to combine public transport with a short ride or walk.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, including wooded river valleys and historic parklands, and the variety of trails suitable for different skill levels.
Yes, the Eskbank and Newbattle area, including nearby Dalkeith, offers various amenities. Dalkeith Country Park features shops and cafes, and there are local cafes and pubs in the towns themselves where you can refuel after your ride. The Rosearista Coffee Shop – View of the Countryside loop from Dalkeith even starts near a coffee shop.
The region offers mountain biking opportunities year-round. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer is great for longer days, while winter riding is possible, though trail conditions may vary due to weather. Always check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out.


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