Biking & Walking-Friendly Areas in Edinburgh, Edinburgh, City of, United Kingdom

Edinburgh, United Kingdom, Edinburgh, Travel & Transportation, Biking & Walking-Friendly Areas

Biking & Walking-Friendly Areas in Edinburgh, Edinburgh, City of, United Kingdom

1. Princes Street Gardens

A green haven in the heart of Edinburgh, ideal for a leisurely walk or bike ride. Offers a tranquil escape from city hustle.
  • Scenic Beauty: Features beautiful flowers and trees, providing a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Central Location: Situated between Edinburgh Castle and the Scott Monument, making it easily accessible.
  • Events Venue: Hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals.

2. Meadows

Sprawling parkland perfect for biking or walking, offering a variety of sports facilities and picnic spots.
  • Sports Facilities: Includes tennis courts, cricket pitches, and football fields.
  • Open Space: Provides ample room for various activities and relaxation.
  • Location: Near the University of Edinburgh and the Royal Botanic Garden.

3. Water of Leith Walkway

A peaceful riverside path ideal for walking or cycling, offering a glimpse into Edinburgh's industrial past.
  • Historical Interest: Passes by several sites of historical significance.
  • Natural Beauty: Features diverse wildlife and beautiful river views.
  • Length: Stretches over 12 miles, allowing for long walks or bike rides.

4. Arthur's Seat

A challenging hike up an extinct volcano offering panoramic views of Edinburgh.
  • Scenic Viewpoints: Provides stunning vistas of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside.
  • Natural Landmark: Part of Holyrood Park, a unique geological formation.
  • Difficulty Level: Suitable for experienced hikers and offers a challenging workout.

5. Cramond Island

A tidal island accessible by foot at low tide, offering beautiful coastal walks.
  • Natural Beauty: Features sandy beaches, dunes, and wildlife.
  • Tidal Access: Accessible only at low tide, adding an element of adventure.
  • Historical Significance: Contains several historical ruins and fortifications.

6. Blackford Hill

A hill offering stunning views of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth, perfect for a leisurely walk or picnic.
  • Scenic Viewpoints: Provides breathtaking vistas of Edinburgh and the surrounding landscape.
  • Science Museum: Home to the Royal Observatory and the Dynamic Earth science centre.
  • Nature Reserve: Part of the Holyrood Park Nature Reserve, featuring diverse flora and fauna.

7. Leith Walk

A bustling street with a mix of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
  • Cultural Diversity: Showcases Edinburgh's multicultural community.
  • Shopping and Dining: Offers a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants along its length.
  • Historical Buildings: Passes by several historical buildings, including Leith Theatre and St. Mary's Cathedral.

8. Inverleith Park

A beautiful park with a boating pond, ideal for a leisurely walk or picnic.
  • Boating Pond: Offers the opportunity to rent boats and enjoy the water.
  • Scenic Beauty: Features beautiful flowers, trees, and a Victorian bandstand.
  • Location: Near the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

9. Corstorphine Hill

A hill offering panoramic views of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside, perfect for a challenging walk or bike ride.
  • Scenic Viewpoints: Provides stunning vistas of Edinburgh and the surrounding landscape.
  • Nature Reserve: Part of the Corstorphine Hill Local Nature Reserve.
  • Difficulty Level: Suitable for experienced hikers and offers a challenging workout.

10. Royal Circus

A unique circular street designed by Robert Adam, perfect for a leisurely stroll admiring architecture.
  • Historical Architecture: Showcases some of the finest Georgian and neoclassical architecture in Edinburgh.
  • Scenic Beauty: Features beautifully maintained gardens and a central fountain.
  • Central Location: Located near the city centre, making it easily accessible.

11. Portobello Beach

A sandy beach perfect for a leisurely walk or picnic, with a promenade offering cafes and restaurants.
  • Scenic Beauty: Features beautiful sea views and sandy beaches.
  • Beach Activities: Offers beach activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and windsurfing.
  • Promenade: Includes a wide promenade with cafes, restaurants, and amusement arcades.

12. Dean Village

A picturesque village nestled beside the Water of Leith, offering peaceful walks and picturesque views.
  • Historical Interest: Features several historic mills and buildings.
  • Scenic Beauty: Boasts beautiful gardens, riverside paths, and stunning architecture.
  • Peaceful Atmosphere: Offers a quiet, peaceful atmosphere away from the city centre.

13. Musselburgh Promenade

A coastal path offering beautiful views of the sea and surrounding countryside, perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride.
  • Scenic Beauty: Features beautiful sea views and countryside landscapes.
  • Beach Activities: Offers beach activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and windsurfing.
  • Length: Stretches for over a mile along the coastline.

14. Bruntsfield Links

A large open space perfect for picnics, games, and leisurely walks or bike rides.
  • Open Space: Provides ample room for various activities and relaxation.
  • Location: Near Bruntsfield, one of Edinburgh's most fashionable areas.
  • Historical Buildings: Surrounded by several historic buildings and churches.

15. Blackford Hill Nature Reserve

A natural area offering scenic views of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth, perfect for a leisurely walk or birdwatching.
  • Scenic Viewpoints: Provides stunning vistas of Edinburgh and the surrounding landscape.
  • Nature Reserve: Home to diverse flora, fauna, and several species of birds.
  • Science Museum: Adjacent to the Royal Observatory and Dynamic Earth science centre.