4.5
(305)
4,568
riders
299
rides
Touring cycling routes around Maddiston offer a diverse landscape in central Scotland, characterized by a mix of historical waterways and natural features. The region features the Union Canal and the River Avon, which are central to many routes, alongside the notable Cockleroy Hill. Cyclists can expect varied terrain, including both paved and unpaved surfaces, suitable for different fitness levels.
Last updated: June 21, 2026
5.0
(4)
79
riders
41.5km
02:32
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
52
riders
28.2km
01:58
210m
210m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.

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5.0
(2)
37
riders
41.1km
02:24
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
29
riders
33.0km
02:03
100m
100m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
25
riders
70.7km
04:35
490m
490m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Long tunnel with lights but better to have yours on as well.
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The Kelpies are a pair of towering, 30-meter-tall horse-head sculptures located in The Helix park in Falkirk, Scotland.
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The Falkirk Tunnel is a canal tunnel of the Edinburgh and Glasgow Union Canal, dug through Prospect Hill in Falkirk, Scotland. Completed in 1822, the tunnel is 630 meters long. It was built because the owner of Callendar House objected to the view from his property being obstructed by the proposed canal.
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Very dark and wet - take a torch and be prepared for wet ground and some drips coming through the roof - unusual bit to walk through and worth doing though. Was a much longer tunnel than I was expecting.
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Wide tyre and low pressures or walk, I didn't fell comfortable riding a Brompton through (although I was also using clipless)
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The Kelpies are two horse-head-shaped sculptures in Scotland. They are intended to deter children from swimming in the waters, using, among other things, horror stories.
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Maddiston offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 325 different options to explore. These routes cater to various skill levels, ranging from easy to difficult.
Yes, Maddiston has over 100 easy touring cycling routes, making it a great destination for beginners or families looking for a more relaxed ride. These routes often follow the relatively flat paths along the Union Canal or River Avon.
The terrain around Maddiston is diverse, featuring both paved and unpaved surfaces. Many routes follow historical waterways like the Union Canal, offering smooth paths, while others venture into scenic countryside with varied surfaces. You'll encounter a mix of flat sections and gentle ascents, with some routes including more challenging climbs.
Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, there are nearly 60 difficult routes around Maddiston. An example is the Ratho Marina – Blackness Castle loop from Polmont, which covers over 70 km and features significant elevation changes.
Maddiston's cycling routes pass by several iconic attractions. You can cycle past the impressive Kelpies sculptures, the engineering marvel of the Falkirk Wheel, and the historic Avon Aqueduct. Some routes also include the Falkirk Tunnel, a unique experience along the Union Canal.
Yes, several routes offer longer distances for extended touring. For example, the Ratho Marina – Blackness Castle loop from Polmont is over 70 km, providing a substantial ride through varied landscapes and past historical sites.
The touring cycling routes around Maddiston are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from nearly 300 reviews. Cyclists often praise the blend of natural beauty with impressive engineering marvels like the Falkirk Wheel and the Kelpies, as well as the well-maintained canal paths.
Many of the touring cycling routes around Maddiston are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular The Kelpies – Culross Village loop from Polmont and the Canada Wood Kitchen & Trails – Falkirk Tunnel loop from Polmont.
While touring cycling is possible year-round, the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) generally offer the most pleasant weather for exploring Maddiston. During these seasons, you can expect milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, ideal for enjoying the diverse landscapes and attractions.
Yes, the region is rich in history. Routes often pass by or near significant historical sites. For instance, the The Kelpies – Culross Village loop from Polmont can lead you to the historic Culross Village, and other routes are close to castles like Callendar House or Linlithgow Palace.
The Union Canal and River Avon are central to many touring cycling routes around Maddiston. You'll find numerous options that follow the scenic towpaths alongside these waterways, offering relatively flat and picturesque rides, often incorporating impressive structures like the Avon Aqueduct.
Yes, for stunning panoramic views, consider routes that include Cockleroy Hill Summit. At 278 meters, it offers 360-degree vistas of the surrounding central Scotland landscape, providing a rewarding stop on your cycling tour.


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