The best traffic-free bike rides around Leith Harbour & Newhaven
4.5
(1548)
22,908
riders
251
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Leith Harbour & Newhaven offer diverse terrain, combining urban areas with coastal paths and green spaces. The region is characterized by its location along the Firth of Forth, providing expansive views and access to the Water of Leith walkway. Elevation changes are generally moderate, with some routes featuring gentle inclines and others remaining largely flat along the waterfront. The landscape includes a mix of developed areas, parks, and natural coastal features suitable for cycling away from vehicle traffic.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around Leith Harbour & Newhaven
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Dalmeny Estate loop from Leith, a 22.5 miles (36.2 km) trail that takes 2 hours 20 minutes to complete. This difficult route explores coastal areas and the Dalmeny Estate.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Wardie Bay – Cramond Island Causeway loop from Leith, an easy 10.2 miles (16.5 km) path. This route offers coastal scenery and views towards Cramond Island.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Paddington Bear Statue – Water of Leith Walkway loop from Leith, a 5.7 miles (9.3 km) trail leading through the Water of Leith walkway, often completed in about 35 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Leith Harbour & Newhaven is defined by coastal paths, urban green spaces, and the Water of Leith walkway. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy, flat paths to more challenging routes with varied terrain.
- The routes in Leith Harbour & Newhaven are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1500 reviews. More than 23000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Leith Harbour & Newhaven's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.5
(47)
467
riders
36.2km
02:21
270m
270m
Embark on the Dalmeny Estate loop from Leith, a challenging touring bicycle route that spans 22.5 miles (36.2 km) and features a significant 888 feet (271 metres) of elevation gain. You will cycle through a varied landscape of picturesque farmland, managed woodlands, and expansive parkland. The route offers stunning views of the Forth estuary, including the iconic Forth Bridge, Forth Road Bridge, and Queensferry Crossing, providing a rewarding experience over an estimated 2 hours and 20 minutes.
This difficult ride requires good fitness, so be prepared for varied terrain. The trail is not suitable for road bikes with skinny tires; instead, you should use a hybrid, cyclocross, or mountain bike. You will encounter unmade roads, dirt paths that can be muddy and stony, and gravel estate roads, with some sections potentially requiring you to push your bike. Plan your visit during dry conditions to best enjoy the diverse surfaces.
Beyond the scenic vistas, the route also features secluded beaches and the impressive Dalmeny House. Near the River Almond, you might discover an area with a charming "Hobbiton" feel. Keep an eye out for Shetland ponies grazing along the way, adding a unique touch to your journey through this historic estate. This trail offers a blend of natural beauty and architectural interest, making it a notable cycling adventure in the region.
4.8
(26)
266
riders
16.5km
00:57
70m
70m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.2
(5)
38
riders
9.25km
00:36
90m
90m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
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
A cute statue of the famous bear eating a jam sandwich is one of 23 places in the UK and Ireland taking part in the Paddington Visits Trail.
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A historic and vibrant public square in the heart of Edinburgh's New Town. Surrounded by Georgian architecture and popular destinations, it’s a central hub for shopping, dining, and relaxation. Originally designed as part of Edinburgh’s 18th-century New Town development, St Andrew Square is now a mix of classic elegance and modern convenience, offering green space alongside some of the city’s best retail and dining options.
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At the heart of St Andrew Square Gardens stands the Melville Monument, a towering column dedicated to Henry Dundas, 1st Viscount Melville. This historic landmark is a striking focal point in the square and has become one of Edinburgh's notable features.
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The Warriston Path is a popular cycling and walking route in Edinburgh that’s part of the extensive "Innocent Railway Path" network. It follows a former railway line, which has been transformed into a green corridor, offering a scenic, traffic-free route for commuters, joggers, and recreational cyclists.
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Cramond Island is a deserted island with a few ruins and bunkers from the Second World War. At low tide, the island can be reached over a narrow and low concrete causeway in a four-hour window, two hours before and two hours after low tide. The path is about 1.6 kilometres (one mile) long and passes concrete piers dating from the Second World War, built to protect against torpedoes and ships. The times when the path to the island is open are posted at the start of the path and are also published on the internet: https://queensferrylifeboat.co.uk/cramond-tides At high tide, the water rises so high that you can only leave the island by swimming or waiting up to eight hours for the causeway to be open again. If you do decide to swim, be aware of the current, the low water temperature and the relatively long distance.
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Great to cross the causeway at low tide. Queensferry lifeboats publish save crossing times on their website: https://www.queensferrylifeboat.co.uk/cramond-tides
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Leith Harbour & Newhaven?
There are over 250 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Leith Harbour & Newhaven. This includes a wide variety of options, with 144 easy routes, 73 moderate routes, and 37 more challenging options to explore.
Are there family-friendly no-traffic cycling routes in Leith Harbour & Newhaven?
Yes, Leith Harbour & Newhaven offers many family-friendly, traffic-free cycling routes. The Paddington Bear Statue – Water of Leith Walkway loop from Leith is an easy 9.25 km option that follows the scenic Water of Leith, perfect for a relaxed family outing. The Water of Leith Walkway itself is a popular choice for all ages, accommodating cycling, walking, and skating.
What kind of terrain can I expect on no-traffic touring cycling routes in this region?
The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Leith Harbour & Newhaven offer varied terrain. You'll find dedicated cycle paths, coastal routes along the Firth of Forth, and paths winding through green spaces like the Water of Leith Walkway. While many routes are relatively flat, some, like the Dalmeny Estate loop from Leith, include more significant elevation changes, offering a mix of experiences from gentle rides to more challenging climbs.
Can I bring my dog on the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Many of the no-traffic routes, especially those on shared paths like the Water of Leith Walkway, are dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a lead and be mindful of other cyclists and pedestrians. Specific rules may apply in certain parks or nature reserves, so check local signage.
Are there any circular no-traffic bike routes available?
Yes, several circular no-traffic bike routes are available. For an easy coastal ride, consider the Wardie Bay – Cramond Island Causeway loop from Leith, which is about 16.5 km. Another shorter, easy option is the Five Ways Junction loop from Leith, covering approximately 4.6 km.
What are the best times of year to cycle the no-traffic routes in Leith Harbour & Newhaven?
The best time to cycle in Leith Harbour & Newhaven is generally during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is milder and the scenery is beautiful. Summer (June-August) is also popular, though routes can be busier. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially wet conditions.
What attractions or landmarks can I see along the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Many routes offer access to significant attractions. You can cycle past the historic Holyrood Palace or enjoy views of the iconic Arthur's Seat. The Water of Leith Walkway connects various parks and historical sites. The coastal paths provide views of the Firth of Forth and landmarks like the Newhaven Harbour Lighthouse. The Royal Yacht Britannia at Ocean Terminal is also easily accessible from many Leith routes.
Where can I find parking near the no-traffic bike trails in Leith Harbour & Newhaven?
Parking is available at various points around Leith Harbour & Newhaven, often near popular access points for the Water of Leith Walkway or coastal paths. Ocean Terminal offers parking, which is convenient for accessing routes starting in Leith. Specific car parks can be found in Newhaven, providing access to the northern coastal sections.
How accessible are the no-traffic cycling routes by public transport?
Leith Harbour & Newhaven are well-served by Edinburgh's public transport network, making it easy to access the no-traffic cycling routes. Numerous bus routes connect the area to the city center and beyond. The Edinburgh tram extension also provides convenient access to Leith and Newhaven, allowing cyclists to reach starting points without needing a car.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Leith Harbour & Newhaven?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Leith Harbour & Newhaven, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1,500 ratings. Reviewers often praise the abundance of traffic-free paths, the scenic coastal views, and the ability to combine urban exploration with natural escapes along routes like the Water of Leith Walkway.
Are there any viewpoints along the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
While many routes are at sea level, you can find excellent viewpoints nearby. From coastal paths, you'll get stunning views of the Firth of Forth. For panoramic vistas, you might consider a short detour to highlights like View of Edinburgh from Calton Hill or View of Edinburgh from Blackford Hill, which are accessible from the wider Edinburgh area.
Most popular routes around Leith Harbour & Newhaven
Most popular attractions around Leith Harbour & Newhaven
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