Welcome. On this page you'll find details of all organised bike rides in or near the Scottish capital. These rides are run by local cycling clubs, groups and individuals, and are mostly free of charge and open to all.
If you like the idea of cycling in congenial company with a knowledgeable leader, you're sure to find a run here that's right for you. Choose an event that's appropriate for your experience and level of fitness, and enjoy a great day out.
| Saturday | ||
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17° | 8 mph |
| Sunday | ||
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15° | 8 mph |
| Monday | ||
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12° | 14 mph |
As well as their frequent Sunday rides (listed in the main part of this page), CTC have longer runs every Wednesday and Saturday throughout the year. These are moderate-to-fast rides of 50 to 70 miles, aimed at reasonably fit cyclists. The starting times and meeting points vary, so please check the current rides list on the CTC web site. The main contacts for these rides are Philip Rankin () (for the Wednesday rides) and Jessie Harrington () (for the Saturday rides).
These are moderately fast rides of 20 to 25 miles, running from early May to the end of August, starting from the Commonwealth Pool [map] at 19.00. Most rides include a pub stop. Lights are essential. Just turn up, or contact Mike Bonar (0131 441 7573) for further information.
This group has rides every Saturday and Sunday. These are fast rides, aimed at serious cyclists who are interested in cycling at speed in a group and those training to race. Further information: Edinburgh RC (email: ).
Note: The above groups welcome non-members on their rides, but those who cycle with them regularly will be asked to join.
Saturday 25th May 2013 : EasyCycle Short Ride
A short informal ride of about 12 miles, which will be taken at a gentle pace with plenty of stops. These rides are especially suitable for less experienced riders and those who haven't cycled for a while. The route will mainly be on bike paths and quiet roads, and will avoid steep hills. Today's ride will be to Balerno and Currie, with a lunchtime pub stop (or bring a picnic if you prefer). The ride should end about 3 pm. Meet: 10.30, at the Water of Leith Visitor Centre, Lanark Road [map]. Cost and booking: Free. No need to book; just turn up. Further information: Logan Strang (0131 346 7786, ).
Sunday 26th May : CTC 40
A ride of about 40 miles, taken at a steady pace. These rides are aimed at cyclists who want something a little more demanding than the group's short rides but are not yet ready for their very long Wednesday or Saturday runs. There might be a café stop at some point during the day, but riders should bring food for a picnic lunch. Meet: 10.00, at Fisherrow Harbour, Musselburgh (which is about six miles from Edinburgh city centre). Cost and booking: Free; just turn up. Further information: CTC Lothians, or contact Maureen Young (0131 661 3325).
Saturday 1st June : Bethany Sportive
Now in its fifth year, this is an event for "serious amateur" cyclists, to raise funds to help homeless and vulnerable people. The main route is a 102-mile circuit of the Scottish Borders, taking in the Moorfoot Hills, Selkirk and the River Tweed and Gala Water valleys. This is a demanding route, with 8,000 feet of ascent, which riders are expected to finish in eight hours. A (slightly) less challenging 72-mile option is also available. There will be food and water stations offering refreshments along the way; those wanting something more substantial should bring their own food. The ride is non-competitive, but each rider will be individually timed, with all times being published on the Bethany website after the event. The ride is limited to 400 riders. Time and place: Riders will set out at two-minute intervals between 08.00 and 10.00, from Lasswade High School, Eskdale Drive, Bonnyrigg (which is about eight miles from the centre of Edinburgh). Cost: £30 entry fee, plus sponsorship money. The fee will be waived for the first 50 entrants who undertake to raise at least £100 in sponsorship. Registration and further information: Bethany Trust website or phone Hannah Biddulph (0131 561 8925).
Sunday 2nd June : Spokes
A moderately-paced ride of about 50 miles. These rides are aimed at the averagely-fit cyclist who rides regularly and is comfortable cycling for a reasonable period at 10 to 12 mph. Most rides include a longish lunch stop at a pub or café, or bring a picnic if you prefer. Today's ride should end around 17.00. Meet: 10.00, at the Usher Hall, Lothian Road [map]. Cost and booking: Free, no need to book. Further information: Spokes, or contact Stuart Threlfall (0131 445 7073)
Saturday 8th June : 20-Milers
An easy-to-moderate ride, suitable both for occasional cyclists and those with a little more experience. These runs are a good choice for the "intermediate" rider - those who are comfortable cycling more than a few miles at a time but might not feel ready for a long day out. They favour easy paths and gentle gradients where possible, and aim to avoid heavy traffic. Lunch is usually at a café or pub, or bring a picnic if you prefer. Today's ride will take in Musselburgh and Dalkeith, with lunch in Dalkeith Country Park. Meet: 10.30, at the north end of Middle Meadow Walk (junction of Lauriston Place) [map]. Cost and booking: Free; just turn up. Further information: Mike Lewis (0131 343 2520) or Livia Dyckhoff (0131 337 1315), or email See also the 20-Milers Blog, which has details and photos of previous rides.
Sunday 9th June : CTC 40
A ride of about 40 miles, taken at a steady pace. These rides are aimed at cyclists who want something a little more demanding than the group's short rides but are not yet ready for their very long Wednesday or Saturday runs. There might be a café stop at some point during the day, but riders should bring food for a picnic lunch. Meet: 10.00, on the Roseburn Path, on the bridge over West Coates (access the path from W. Coates Terrace or Balbirnie Place). Cost and booking: Free; just turn up. Further information: CTC Lothians, or contact Maureen Young (0131 661 3325).
Saturday 15th June : Edinburgh to St Andrews (Lepra) Ride 2013
The annual charity run to St Andrews in aid of leprosy relief. This is a demanding 68-mile ride through the Fife countryside, with more than a few hills to climb en route. But there's a great atmosphere, and you'll get a wonderful sense of achievement when you finish. You ride at your own pace, either alone or in the company of others, enjoying excellent scenery and superb refreshment stops along the way. A repair van and first-aiders accompany the ride. Time and place: The ride starts at 08.45 from the west gate of Inverleith Park. Cost and booking: Advanced registration required. £10 per person (£5 concessions). Transport back to Edinburgh (on the Saturday evening or Sunday morning) is £14 for a rider and bike. Further information: Click here for full details of the St. Andrews ride, including an overview of the route, how to register, and the organisers' contact details.
Sunday 16th June : Short CTC Ride
A moderate ride of 15 to 20 miles, lasting two to three hours, mainly on cycle paths and tracks. The group maintains a steady speed, with occasional short breaks. The ride should appeal to cyclists of average fitness. Meet: 09.50 for a 10.00 start, at the Royal Commonwealth Pool, Dalkeith Road [map]. Cost and booking: Free; just turn up. Further information: CTC Lothian, or contact Liz Farnworth (0797 117 0153).
Sunday 16th June : Two-Capitals Ride
A 21-mile charity ride from Dunfermline to Leith, in aid of Maggie's Cancer Caring Centres and Kingdom Kids. This is a relatively easy ride - one which should be well within the capabilities of an averagely-fit cyclist (adult or child). The ride starts at 12.30 at Dunfermline Glen (near the town centre and rail station) and finishes at the Ocean Terminal. Transport to the start point leaves the Ocean Terminal at 11.00. Return transport to Dunfermline is available after the ride. Cost and booking: Advanced registration required. £10 (£5 concesssions), plus sponsorship money. Transport: £4 per bike and rider (one way). To register and for further information, visit www.twocapitals.org or send an SAE to PO Box 29173, Dunfermline KY12 9UZ.
Saturday 22nd June to Sunday 23rd June : Mellow Velo Kirk Yetholm Weekend
A two-day ride, from Dunbar to Kirk Yetholm on the Saturday, returning to either Dunbar or Berwick upon Tweed the following day (about 50 miles each day). Overnight accommodation at Kirk Yetholm Youth Hostel, with a communal vegetarian meal on the Saturday evening. Meet: 10.30 at Dunbar station. Travel: Trains leave Waverley for Dunbar at eight minutes past the hour; the 10.08 arrives at 10.38. Trains are approximately hourly from Berwick to Edinburgh on the Sunday, less frequent from Dunbar. Booking and further information: Book your bike on the trains of your choice. Book your accommodation directly with the hostel. See also the Mellow Velo website.
Sunday 23rd June : CTC 40
A ride of about 40 miles, taken at a steady pace. These rides are aimed at cyclists who want something a little more demanding than the group's short rides but are not yet ready for their very long Wednesday or Saturday runs. There might be a café stop at some point during the day, but riders should bring food for a picnic lunch. Meet: 10.00, at the Kingston Crossroads (junction of Gilmerton Road and Mount Vernon Road). Cost and booking: Free; just turn up. Further information: CTC Lothians, or contact Maureen Young (0131 661 3325).
Sunday 23rd June : Laid Back Sunday Tour
A leisurely ride from Marchmont to Silverknowes. Bring your own bike or hire one on the day. Lunch will be at the café on Silverknowes Esplanade, or bring your own food for a picnic. There will also be an opportunity to try out a trike, tandem or recumbent; this will take place at the lunch stop. Children welcome if accompanied by a responsible adult. This is a Bike Week event. Time and place: The ride will leave at 10.30, from Laid Back Bikes, 28 Marchmont Crescent, returning at about 15.00. Cost and booking: The ride is free and open to all; just turn up. Bike hire is £17 for the day, and should be booked in advance. Further information: Laid Back Bikes (email: ; phone: 07981 430159).
Sunday 23rd June : Polwarth Church Family Ride and Picnic
A short, family-friendly ride of about six miles, entirely on bike paths, with a picnic in Spylaw Park, Colinton (bring your own food). Under-16s must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Time and place: The ride leaves Polwarth Church, Polwarth Terrace, at 12.30 (after the service). This is a bike-week event. Cost and booking: Free. just turn up. Further information: Andy Hunter (, 07762 000039).
Saturday 29th June : EasyCycle Short Ride
A short informal ride of about 12 miles, which will be taken at a gentle pace with plenty of stops. These rides are especially suitable for less experienced riders and those who haven't cycled for a while. The route will mainly be on bike paths and quiet roads, and will avoid steep hills. There will be a café stop at lunchtime, or bring a picnic if you prefer. The ride should end about 3 pm. Meet: For details of today's meeting point, please check back here nearer the time. Cost and booking: Free. No need to book; just turn up. Further information: Logan Strang (0131 346 7786, ).
Saturday 6th July : 20-Milers Extra
At about 35 miles, this ride will be longer than the group's usual outings, and will go at a faster pace. It should appeal to those who are comfortable with the usual 20-Milers slow-to-moderate speed, and now want to try something a little more challenging. The route will follow NCN 1 over the Forth Road Bridge to Dunferline, with lunch in Pittencrieff Park (a choice of café or picnic). The ride should end mid to late afternoon. Meet: 10.00, at the Sustrans marker on the Roseburn path, by the three-way junction with the Blackhall and Telford paths (this is near the Sainsbury's petrol station in S. Groathill Ave.). Please note the earlier start time and the non-standard meeting place. Cost and booking: Free; just turn up. Further information: Mike Lewis (0131 343 2520) or Livia Dyckhoff (0131 337 1315), or email See also the 20-Milers Blog, which has details and photos of previous rides.
Sunday 7th July : Spokes
A moderately-paced ride of about 50 miles. These rides are aimed at the averagely-fit cyclist who rides regularly and is comfortable cycling for a reasonable period at 10 to 12 mph. Most rides include a longish lunch stop at a pub or café, or bring a picnic if you prefer. Today's ride should end around 17.00 [map]. Meet: 10.00, at the Usher Hall, Lothian Road. Cost and booking: Free, no need to book. Further information: Spokes, or contact Stuart Threlfall (0131 445 7073)
Sunday 4th August : Tour de Forth Charity Rides
A choice of three rides along or near the Firth of Forth, all starting and finishing at the Ocean Terminal in Leith. The event is in aid of Mercy Corps, an international charity that helps vulnerable people and communities around the world. All three events will be fully supported, with marshalling, mechanical and medical support, sweep vehicles (for those who cannot complete the route), and refreshments. Choose one of the following rides, depending on your experience and level of fitness. Classic: A 66-mile circuit of the Forth, via the Forth Road Bridge and west Fife, returning by way of the Clackmannanshire Bridge and Bo'ness. Sportive: The same route as the Classic, but aimed at faster riders, with each participant being individually timed. Petit Pedal: A leisurely 24-mile ride to Craigies Farm (near Cramond), returning via South Queensferry; this ride is suitable for cyclists of all ages and abilities. Cost: £30 for the Classic and Sportive rides; £12 (adults) or £8 (children) for the Petit Pedal. In addition, riders are expected to raise a minimum of £1 per mile sponsorship money. Registration and further information: Lisa Seymour (0131 662 5176), or see the Tour de Forth website.
Saturday 15th June 2013 to Sunday 23rd June 2013 : Edinburgh Festival of Cycling
A nine-day event aimed at "showcasing and celebrating all aspects of bicycle culture and the city itself". The programme promises family bike rides, races, guided tours, films, workshops and talks. Further information: Festival of Cycling website.
Saturday 15th June to Sunday 23rd June : National Bike Week 2013
A programme of bike rides, meetings, get-togethers and other bike-related events, all designed to "promote cycling, and show how cycling can easily be part of everyday life". Edinburgh always has a full schedule of rides and other events to choose from, most of which are listed on this page. See also the Bike Week website.
Wednesday 19th June : Spokes Bike Breakfast
All cyclists are welcome at the ever-popular annual Spokes breakfast at the City Chambers. Stalls, bike mechanic, chain wash, security marking, map sales, speeches, competitions, quizzes and prizes, and, of course, the complementary hot breakfast. This is a Bike Week event. Time and place: 07.45 to 09.45, City Chambers Quadrangle, High Street.
Pedal on Parliament, May 2013
Photo: M.L.
More photos from recent rides
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“When I go biking, I repeat a mantra of the day's sensations: bright sun, blue sky, warm breeze, blue jay's call, ice melting and so on. This helps me transcend the traffic, ignore the clamourings of work, leave all the mind theatres behind and focus on nature instead.”
Diane Ackerman
Edinburgh Bike Paths: A Cyclist's Guide
How to get from A to B on two wheels.
Escape Edinburgh by Bike
These routes will get you out of the city quickly and safely.
I want to go on a bike ride but I haven't got a bike
How to hire a bicycle - or buy one second hand - in Edinburgh
The Edinburgh to St. Andrews (Lepra) bike ride
Everything you need to know about this popular event.
Browse all articles on this site
Recommended for local cyclists:
Round the Forth (Sustrans Cycle Map)
(£3.99)
The official Sustrans map covering the 134-mile NCN route between Dunbar, Edinburgh, Stirling and Kirkcaldy, plus other routes in Fife and the Lothians.
More Sustrans maps
Bike Scotland
by Fergal MacErlean
(£5.99)
40 bike routes in Central Scotland, all easily accessible by rail. The routes vary from gentle family runs to challenging days out in the hills. Each route has detailed directions and a full-colour map.
Also recommended:
Spokes cycling maps for Edinburgh, Glasgow and the Lothians
Bike Station
A community project that accepts donated bikes from members of the public and recycles
them for use by priority groups such as the long term unemployed and the homeless.
CTC Lothians
The local branch of the UK-wide cyclists organisation. They organise two to three
rides every week and support cycle campaigning activities.
Spokes
A non-party political campaigning group, pressing for better conditions for cyclists,
especially in Edinburgh and the Lothians.
Chickpea and Lemon Burgers
Much healthier than the usual meat-based burgers.
Or browse my full list of healthy vegetarian and vegan recipes.
Hermiston House Road
Photo: ML
More photos from recent rides
Cycling Edinburgh. Website owned and maintained by Mike Lewis.
Please contact me with your feedback, suggestions or details of events you would like me to include on this page. You can email me at:
Site policies. To be eligible for listing on this site, an event must (i) be open to cyclists regardless of their nationality, religion, ethnic group, sex or sexual orientation; (ii) not require the use of a car; (iii) not make it compulsory for adult participants to wear a helmet (Why?).
Copyright Mike Lewis Consultants Ltd. and contributors, 2006 - 2013. You may copy short extracts from this page for non-commercial use, provided you acknowledge the source and include a link back to the original page. All other copying or re-publishing is prohibited.