The best traffic-free bike rides around Drylaw/Telford

There are over 260 no-traffic touring cycling routes available in the Drylaw/Telford area. This includes a wide variety of options, with more than 130 easy routes perfect for a relaxed ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the industrial heritage of Telford to the green spaces and coastal paths around Edinburgh, and the well-maintained, traffic-free paths that make for enjoyable touring.

Yes, there are many easy, traffic-free routes ideal for beginners. Out of the 266 available routes, 136 are classified as easy. For example, the Old Almond Bridge – Cramond Brig loop from Drylaw is an easy 9.8 km route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a gentle introduction to touring cycling.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes in Drylaw/Telford are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. An example is the Colinton Tunnel Mural – Colinton Tunnel Murals loop from Drylaw, which offers a moderate 21 km ride.

Many routes are very family-friendly, especially those utilizing former railway lines and canal beds in Telford, like sections of the Silkin Way, or the North Edinburgh Cyclepath around Drylaw. These paths are generally flat, well-surfaced, and free from vehicle traffic, making them safe and enjoyable for all ages. Telford Town Park also offers 14 miles of cycle-friendly pathways.

Around Telford, routes often pass through the Shropshire Hills AONB, along the River Severn, and through woodlands like Apley Woods. The Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site, with its historic bridges and museums, is also accessible. Near Drylaw, you can find local parks, coastal views towards Granton Harbour, and connections to Edinburgh's wider green spaces. You might also encounter highlights like River Almond Weir or View of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth.

Yes, you can find waterfalls in the region. For instance, Cramond Falls is a notable waterfall that can be reached from some of the routes around Drylaw. The River Almond Weir also offers a scenic water feature.

Absolutely. Around Drylaw, routes can lead to coastal areas with views of the Firth of Forth and places like Granton Harbour and Wardie Bay. In Telford, you can cycle along the beautiful Severn Valley, and there are also local nature reserves with smaller bodies of water. Highlights like Torduff Reservoir and St Margaret's Loch are also accessible.

Yes, parking is generally available near many starting points, especially in Telford where routes often connect to town parks or heritage sites with dedicated parking. For routes around Drylaw, local street parking or public car parks in Edinburgh can be utilized. It's always advisable to check specific route details for recommended parking locations.

Both Drylaw and Telford are well-served by public transport. In Edinburgh, Drylaw is connected to the city's bus network, which can take you close to the North Edinburgh Cyclepath. Telford has a train station and an extensive bus network. Many cycling routes, particularly the National Cycle Network paths like Route 55 in Telford, are designed to be accessible from public transport hubs, making it easy to start your ride without a car.

Yes, you'll find various refreshment stops along or near many routes. In Telford, routes passing through the Ironbridge Gorge or Telford Town Park offer cafes, pubs, and eateries. Around Drylaw, the North Edinburgh Path Network connects to various communities where local cafes and pubs are available. Planning your route with komoot allows you to see points of interest, including places to eat and drink, along the way.

The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling in both Drylaw and Telford, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, especially in the woodlands of Telford. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder, wetter conditions and shorter days. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.