The best traffic-free bike rides around Longstone

There are 9 dedicated traffic-free touring cycling routes around Longstone, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These routes are designed to keep you away from busy roads, providing a peaceful cycling experience.

The traffic-free touring routes around Longstone, particularly those near Edinburgh, largely feature mostly paved surfaces. This makes for smooth and enjoyable rides suitable for various touring bicycles. While many routes are relatively flat, some, like the challenging Colinton Tunnel Mural – Glencorse Reservoir loop from Kingsknowe, include significant elevation changes, offering a good workout.

Yes, Longstone offers several easy, traffic-free routes perfect for families. The Path Along the Union Canal – Slateford Aqueduct loop from Longstone is a great example, providing a gentle ride along the canal. These routes typically feature paved paths and minimal elevation, ensuring a relaxed outing for all ages.

Many of the traffic-free paths around Longstone are suitable for cycling with dogs, especially if they are accustomed to bike trailers or running alongside. Routes like the Water of Leith Walkway, which features the Colinton Tunnel Mural – Colinton Tunnel Murals loop from Kingsknowe, are popular for their scenic and car-free environment, making them ideal for a leisurely ride with your canine companion.

You'll find several points of interest along the traffic-free routes. The Colinton Tunnel Murals are a striking highlight, offering a unique artistic experience. You can also discover natural beauty like the Dean Village Waterfall or the tranquil Glencorse Reservoir. The Slateford Aqueduct – Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh loop from Kingsknowe also offers a mix of urban and natural sights.

Yes, several of the traffic-free touring routes around Longstone are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. An excellent example is the Scott Russell Aqueduct – Canal Bridges loop from Kingsknowe, which offers a pleasant, easy ride.

The best time to cycle the traffic-free routes around Longstone is generally from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is typically milder and drier, making for more comfortable riding conditions. The scenery is also particularly vibrant in spring and autumn.

Many of the routes, especially those closer to Edinburgh, pass through or near residential areas and local communities where you can find cafes, pubs, and shops. The Water of Leith Walkway, for instance, has several spots along its length to stop for refreshments. It's always a good idea to check local listings for specific establishments along your chosen route.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.49 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the beautiful scenery, and the accessibility to natural and historical landmarks. The well-maintained paths and varied difficulty levels also contribute to a positive cycling experience.

While the routes themselves are often nestled in valleys or along waterways, some nearby areas offer fantastic viewpoints. For instance, Mons Hill, though not directly on a traffic-free route, provides a perfect viewpoint of the Firth of Forth and the Forth Road Bridge, which can be incorporated into a longer ride or visited separately.