The best cycling routes around Bonnyrigg / Lasswade

There are nearly 800 touring cycling routes in the Bonnyrigg / Lasswade area. These routes cater to various skill levels, with over 300 easy, nearly 300 moderate, and 200 difficult options available.

The region offers a diverse cycling landscape. You'll find many routes utilizing disused railway lines, providing relatively flat and traffic-free paths. Other areas feature rolling hills and river valleys, with some routes like the View of Edinburgh – Rolling Hills Road loop from Eskbank including significant elevation gains of over 900 meters. Surfaces vary from paved to unpaved segments.

Yes, many routes built on former railway lines are ideal for families due to their relatively flat and traffic-free nature. Springfield Mill near Lasswade also offers accessible pathways suitable for various outdoor activities. For specific routes, look for those categorized as 'easy' in the komoot guide, which make up over 300 of the available tours.

The routes offer views of the Pentland Hills and pass through scenic areas like Roslin Glen and the Esk Valley. You might also catch glimpses of significant landmarks such as Arthur's Seat and Carnethy Hill. The View of the Pentland Hills – Carrington to Temple Road loop from Newtongrange is a great option for panoramic vistas.

Yes, many routes in the Bonnyrigg / Lasswade area are designed as loops. Examples include the Roslin Glen Railway Tunnel – Penicuik Pond loop from Bonnyrigg and the The Innocent Railway – Bruntsfield Links loop from Eskbank. The region's network of paths, including former railway lines, lends itself well to creating varied circular tours.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1400 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from the quiet paths of disused railway lines to the challenging climbs offering expansive views, and the natural beauty of Roslin Glen and the Pentland Hills.

Bonnyrigg and Lasswade are well-connected within Midlothian, making public transport a viable option for reaching starting points. Many routes, especially those utilizing the National Cycle Route 196, are accessible from various points within the towns. For detailed public transport information, it's best to check local bus schedules.

While popular routes like those on former railway lines can be busy during peak times, the extensive network of nearly 800 routes means you can often find quieter paths. Exploring some of the more challenging routes or those slightly off the main thoroughfares can lead to a more secluded experience.

Yes, the View of Edinburgh – Rolling Hills Road loop from Eskbank is specifically known for its expansive views towards Edinburgh. Additionally, some routes in the Pentland Hills area may offer distant vistas of the city and the Firth of Forth.

The region is enjoyable for cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. While some routes are accessible in winter, conditions can vary, so it's always advisable to check weather forecasts and route conditions, especially for unpaved sections.

For general information on cycling in the wider Midlothian area, including maps and infrastructure details, you can consult the Midlothian Council's resources. A useful starting point is their cycling information page: midlothian.gov.uk/walking_and_cycling.