4.6
(116)
930
riders
31
rides
Mountain biking around Barnton, located on the outskirts of Edinburgh, offers access to diverse landscapes suitable for various skill levels. The area benefits from its proximity to coastal routes along the Firth of Forth and tranquil paths along the River Almond. Nearby natural features like Cramond Island and the Pentland Hills provide varied terrain for mountain bikers.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
4.0
(1)
36
riders
26.5km
01:56
150m
150m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.7
(3)
29
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(2)
9
riders
15.7km
01:01
110m
110m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
11
riders
20.9km
01:25
120m
120m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.7
(3)
7
riders
29.4km
01:55
160m
160m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Lovely ride through Delamere Forest. You can't go wrong on a mtb or emtb. I entered the forest at New Pale and went round lots of trails to the holiday lodges and came out on Waterloo Lane.
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Nice place for a quick recharge while on the trail run/ride
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bit of ahill to climb but well worth the views
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Nice, relatively smooth and quiet canal towpath for gravel and MTB riding.
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Nice little community run cafe on the Whitegate Way. Plenty of outside seating including some under cover.
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Blakemere Moss at Delamere Forest is a reclaimed wetland area. The Moss was originally formed from two kettle holes (water filled hollows formed by a detached mass of glacial ice melted in situ towards the end of the last ice age). Delamere Forest is made up of more than 100 peatland basins and includes several sites of rare 'quaking' bogland, a phenomenon in which sphagnum mosses form a carpet above peaty water that appears to tremble when trodden on. The area was drained from the 1800's, supposedly by prisoners from the Napoleonic Wars and planted with trees, (mainly oak and Scot's Pine) between 1793-1815 to provide timber for shipbuilding. The Forestry Commission planted the moss with pine and western hemlock during the 1940s, which proved uneconomic. In the late 1990's the Commission allowed the area to re-flood again naturally.
1
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very easy dinner time walk, no major fitness requirement.
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While specific routes for Barnton, Edinburgh are not detailed in this guide, the broader area offers a variety of mountain biking opportunities. The region benefits from its proximity to coastal routes along the Firth of Forth and tranquil paths along the River Almond, providing diverse terrain for riders.
You'll find a mix of trails, from coastal routes offering views of the Firth of Forth to more tranquil paths along the River Almond. The area around Cramond, adjacent to Barnton, features routes like the 'Dalmeny Shoreline Singletrack' and 'Cammo Estate loop' which are suitable for moderate rides. For more challenging options, the Pentland Hills Regional Park is within reach, and popular mountain biking centers like Glentress are also accessible from Edinburgh.
Yes, the Barnton area provides options suitable for families and beginners. The Silverknowes Esplanade, a 5km promenade from Granton to Cramond village, is perfect for gentle cycling with fantastic views. Additionally, some sections of the River Almond Walkway offer peaceful, less challenging paths.
For more advanced mountain biking, the Pentland Hills Regional Park, though not immediately adjacent, is within reach and offers more extensive and challenging routes with rugged terrain and panoramic views. Further afield, but still accessible from Edinburgh, Glentress is a renowned mountain biking destination with a wide range of graded trails, including red, black, and orange routes for experienced riders.
The region offers several scenic spots. You can enjoy fantastic views across to Fife and the Forth Bridges from the Silverknowes Esplanade. The River Almond Walkway provides tranquil scenery and the serene Cramond Falls. Additionally, Cramond Island, accessible at low tide via a causeway, offers unique exploration opportunities and views of the Firth of Forth.
Many of the trails in the Barnton area, particularly those exploring coastal paths and river walkways, can be combined to form circular routes. For example, the 'Cammo Estate loop' is a known circular option, and the Silverknowes Esplanade can be incorporated into longer loops connecting to Cramond Village.
Mountain biking in Barnton can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, though trails can be busier. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions, especially on unpaved trails.
It's always wise to bring appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, and be prepared for changeable Scottish weather with layers of clothing. A repair kit, water, and snacks are also recommended. For coastal routes, consider the tides, especially if planning to visit Cramond Island.
Yes, Cramond Village, located a short distance from Barnton and accessible via many coastal and river trails, offers charming cafes and eateries where you can refuel after your ride. Edinburgh itself also has numerous options easily reachable from Barnton.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 100 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, from coastal views to peaceful river paths, and the accessibility to both easy and more challenging terrain.
Absolutely! Near Barnton, you can explore the historic Cramond Village and its unique tidal Cramond Island, which features World War II fortifications. Lauriston Castle and Gardens also offer an opportunity for leisurely walks amidst historic grounds and statues, providing a cultural break from your ride.
Barnton is well-connected to Edinburgh's public transport network, making it feasible to reach the area and access nearby trails without a car. Local bus services operate frequently, providing access to various starting points for rides along the coast or river.


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