The best road cycling routes around Bonnyrigg / Lasswade

There are over 550 road cycling routes available in the Bonnyrigg / Lasswade area, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.

The region features a mix of rolling hills and valleys, characteristic of Midlothian. You'll find rural roads, some with significant climbs, and flatter sections along river corridors. Elevations generally remain below 200m, providing a diverse landscape of hills rather than mountains.

Yes, the area offers a good selection of easier routes. For example, The Meadows – Salisbury Arms loop from Eskbank is an easy 23 km route with moderate elevation gain, suitable for those new to road cycling.

Absolutely. Experienced road cyclists can tackle routes with substantial elevation gain, such as The Granites – B7007 Road Climb loop from Eskbank. This difficult 100.6 km route features nearly 1000m of climbing, providing a significant challenge.

Route lengths vary significantly. You can find shorter loops around 20-30 km, like The Meadows – Salisbury Arms loop from Eskbank (23 km), up to much longer, challenging rides over 100 km, such as The Granites – B7007 Road Climb loop from Eskbank (100.6 km).

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in the Lasswade area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include Arthur's Seat Climb – Arthur's Seat loop from Eskbank and Arthur's Seat Climb – Portobello Promenade loop from Newtongrange.

Many routes offer scenic views and pass by notable landmarks. You might encounter Arthur's Seat, offering panoramic views of Edinburgh, or pass by hills like Carnethy Hill. Some routes also venture towards urban fringes and coastal landscapes like Portobello Promenade.

While road cycling is possible year-round, the best seasons are generally spring, summer, and early autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. This allows for more comfortable riding and better enjoyment of the scenic routes.

Winter road cycling is possible, but conditions can be challenging due to colder temperatures, shorter daylight, and potentially icy or wet roads. It's advisable to check local weather forecasts, dress appropriately in layers, and consider routes with less traffic or elevation during winter months.

Many routes start from towns like Eskbank or Newtongrange, where public parking facilities are typically available. It's recommended to check specific starting points for parking options before your ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 350 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from rolling hills to river valleys, and the accessibility of routes that cater to various ability levels.

While specific 'family-friendly' routes are not explicitly categorized, the area does offer easier, flatter sections, particularly along river corridors, which can be suitable for families or those looking for a more relaxed ride. Look for routes with lower elevation gain and shorter distances.

Given the proximity to towns and villages like Bonnyrigg, Lasswade, Eskbank, and Newtongrange, you will find various cafes, shops, and pubs where you can stop for refreshments. Many routes pass through or near these settlements, making it convenient to plan a break.