Adventure Collective
Explore Edinburgh by Bike: A Scenic 3-Hour Guided Cycle Tour Through Holyrood Park and Portobello - Edinburgh

Explore Edinburgh by Bike: A Scenic 3-Hour Guided Cycle Tour Through Holyrood Park and Portobello

Edinburghmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for riders in moderate physical condition comfortable with cycling 11 miles over mixed terrain.

Overview

Discover Edinburgh’s rich history and diverse landscapes on a scenic 3-hour guided cycling tour. From the Royal Mile to Holyrood Park’s volcanic hills and coastal Portobello, experience Scotland’s capital like never before.

Edinburgh, Scotland

City Centre, Holyrood Park, Portobello Guided Tour

Private Tour • Ages 16+ • 11 mi./18 km • 3 hrs • Easy/Moderate • Call to book • From £45 per person

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About This Adventure

Embark on a captivating 3-hour guided cycle ride through Edinburgh, exploring its stunning landscapes and iconic sites. Experience the charm of the New Town, the historic Royal Mile, and the natural beauty of Holyrood Park. This unique adventure combines culture and scenery, making it an unforgettable way to discover Scotland's capital.

Duration: 3 hours

Price: Prices are shown per person Participants • 1 Person: £120.00 Participants • 2 people: £60.00 Participants • 3 people: £49.00 Participants • 4 people or more: £45.00

Please call us to make this booking

This guided cycle ride (2.5 to 3 hours, 18 km) lets you sample the rich diversity which Edinburgh has to offer and which is best experienced on a bike: picturesque cycle paths, a few of the iconic sites in the heart of the city, verdant Holyrood Park and a coastal promenade.

We start by heading west from our office along a designated cycle path and then emerge in the New Town area, just ½ mile from the city centre. After a short, steep climb through residential streets in this UNESCO World Heritage Site we cross Princes Street (from where you can see Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street Gardens) and head down the lower section of The Royal Mile, experiencing some of the history of the Old Town, towards Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament.

The scenery then changes as we enter Holyrood Park and pass Arthur’s Seat on the way to another quiet cycle path, which follows the route of a disused railway line back down towards the coastline. We finish with a spin along Portobello Promenade and then back to Leith.

There’s simply no better way to see the dramatic and contrasting cityscape of Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland.

Highlights

Where:

  • Category: Half day guided tours
  • Start and Finish Place: Starts and finishes at our office in Leith
  • Distance: 11 miles / 18 km
  • Terrain: There are two short steep climbs on this tour, both of which can be walked in just a few minutes if you prefer to get off the bike. Otherwise flat and downhill.
  • Traffic: Cycle track and some road also. Mostly off-road on cycle paths but please note this tour does take us through the heart of the city and some busy roads are unavoidable. We walk some of this as we tell you about the places we are seeing, and no one should feel worried about this section as we can go as slowly and carefully as necessary. If you have already seen the city centre you might be more interested in our coast and bridges trip which doesn't involve going through the city at all. Don't hesitate to call us if you need advice. We can also offer a shorter version of the coast and bridges trip, only going as far as Crammond and back.

When:

  • Total time: 3 hours total with stops
  • Start and finish time: Starts at 10:00 and finishes at 13:00 approximately
  • Grade: Easy/Moderate

Includes

  • Bike included
  • Helmet included
  • Guide included

Excludes

  • Drinks and snacks en route

Important to Know

This route mainly uses cycle paths, but has some sections on roads.

NOT suitable for children under 16 years old.

This route is suitable for teenagers, 16 or over, who are confident handling a bike, fit and able to ride for three hours. We recommend our Family Friendly Tour for families with kids under the age of 16, or a Private Tour. Please ask for details.

Meeting Point

12B Timberbush, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 6QF

Adventure Tips

Bring Layers

Scottish weather changes quickly; dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the ride.

Carry Water

Stay hydrated during the 3-hour ride, especially on sunny days.

Use Sunscreen

Protect exposed skin even on cloudy days to avoid sunburn while cycling.

Ride at Your Own Pace

The tour is moderate but feel free to ask the guide for a slower pace if needed.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Grey herons frequent St. Margaret’s Loch
  • Red squirrels occasionally spotted in Holyrood Park’s wooded areas

History

Holyrood Park dates back to the 12th century and was originally a royal hunting estate, while the Royal Mile has been Edinburgh’s main thoroughfare since medieval times.

Conservation

Edinburgh Bike Tours promotes low-impact travel and encourages visitors to respect park wildlife and adhere to local guidelines to preserve the natural environment.

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Adventure Hotspots in Edinburgh

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable biking clothes

Essential

Wear breathable clothing for ease of movement on the bike.

Helmet

Essential

Safety is key—helmets are mandatory for this guided tour.

Water bottle

Essential

Carry water to stay hydrated during the ride.

summer specific

Light waterproof jacket

Essential

Prepare for occasional rain showers common in Edinburgh.

spring specific