‘A Wee Pedal’s’ Award-Winning Circular Cycle Tour of Edinburgh!

If you’re looking for a way to see Edinburgh that steps away from the usual tourist crowds, this small-group cycling tour offers a fantastic alternative. With a focus on scenic waterways, historic neighborhoods, and hidden spots, it promises a fresh perspective of Scotland’s capital. The tour is rated a perfect 5.0 by travelers who appreciate its personalized approach, knowledgeable guides, and well-paced route.

What really sets this experience apart is how it combines the charm of local neighborhoods with stunning views along canals, parks, and seaside areas. We love that it’s designed to be accessible—an easy 20-mile ride on mostly traffic-free paths—making it suitable for most moderate cyclists. That said, a potential consideration is the need for confident bike riding, as the route covers quite a bit of ground. This tour is perfect for those who want a more intimate look at Edinburgh, away from the hustle of the main tourist spots, and enjoy being on two wheels in good company.

Key Points

• Personalized small-group experience with a max of six participants.
• Explore lesser-known areas like Dean Village, Leith, and Portobello Beach.
• Expert guides provide engaging insights into Edinburgh’s history and culture.
• Traffic-free routes through parks and along waterways enhance safety and scenery.
• Optional e-bikes available to reduce physical effort but require prior request.
• Ideal for confident cyclists comfortable riding 20 miles on mixed surfaces.

An Introduction to the Cycle Tour

This Edinburgh cycling tour promises a different way to experience the city—not on a bus or walking, but pedaling along quiet paths and scenic waterways. Offered by A Wee Pedal, it’s a tour that balances fun, education, and a sense of adventure. With 82 glowing reviews and a perfect rating, it’s clear that many travelers find it rewarding.

One of the standout features is the small-group setup. Limited to just six participants, this format allows guides to tailor the experience and answer questions, creating a more personal and engaging outing. The price—around $116 per person—might seem like a splurge, but considering the length, route, and guided expertise, it offers great value for those seeking a more authentic and active way to explore.

You won’t be stuck on a crowded bus or overwhelmed by large groups. Instead, you’ll enjoy the flexibility and intimacy that makes for memorable interaction. Plus, with a duration of about 4.5 hours, it’s a day-appropriate outing that can easily fit into most itineraries.

The Route and Its Highlights

Starting Point: Bridgend Farmhouse Café

Your journey begins at Bridgend, a lively spot where you’ll meet your guide and get fitted with your bike—manual bikes and helmets are included. For those who want a bit of extra help, e-bikes can be reserved at an additional £20 per person—a worthwhile option if you’re concerned about the distance or terrain.

From the Canal to Dean Village

The tour starts on a traffic-free cycle path along the Union Canal, a tranquil route lined with canal boats and historic bridges. As you pedal, you’ll pass rowers training and see the peaceful waters framed by historical structures. This section is especially appealing for those interested in the city’s industrial past and scenic waterways.

Descending onto the Water of Leith, the path transforms into a lush green walkway passing under aqueducts, through parks, and past allotments. The rejuvenated Saughton Park, with its original bandstand, provides a perfect spot for photos and a quick break. The guide will share interesting tidbits, like the importance of these waterways in Edinburgh’s development.

Dean Village and Murrayfield

Next, the group visits Dean Village, a charming and peaceful pocket of the city designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you’ll see Thomas Telfer’s bridge and learn about the area’s history as a milling hub. Reviewers highlight this as a highlight: “See Thomas Telfer’s bridge and the original Edinburgh School,” which adds a layer of historical intrigue to the ride.

Passing by Murrayfield Stadium, Scotland’s national rugby ground, offers a quick glimpse of Edinburgh’s sporting culture. The scenery here is a mix of lush greenery and historic architecture—perfect for those interested in both nature and city life.

Ending at Portobello

After covering about 20 miles, the tour concludes at Portobello Beach, a lovely seaside spot where you can relax, enjoy the sea breeze, and reflect on your day. Some travelers recommend planning a beachfront lunch or grabbing a coffee at local cafes, making this a fitting end to a diverse day.

What Travelers Say

The reviews echo the tour’s many strengths. Pat F sums it up well: “Informative and fun ride through and around Edinburgh. 20 miles with lots of interesting sites along waterways and parks. Guides were very knowledgeable and very fun!” This highlights how guides like Jill and Gail add a layer of personality and expertise that elevates the experience.

Klaus R appreciated the small group size, noting it as a major plus: “It’s a great experience and absolutely recommendable. For us, the most important reason was to join a small group with a maximum of 6 persons!” This creates a more relaxed, flexible atmosphere, allowing for personalized attention and spontaneous questions.

Many reviewers mention the scenic routes—from canals and streams to parks and beaches—making this tour visually rewarding. “Great way to see off-the-beaten-path parts of Edinburgh,” says Todd C, emphasizing that you’ll encounter areas most travelers miss.

The guides’ knowledge and friendliness also get high praise. Catherine I describes it as an “amazing day out,” and David A highlights guide Richard as “a great guide, and we got a great feel for Edinburgh and its history.”

Accessibility and Comfort

While the ride is mostly on flat, traffic-free paths, it’s worth noting that you should have moderate physical fitness and confidence cycling 20 miles. The route is described as “easy despite the advertised distance,” which reassures those concerned about hills or challenging terrain.

The e-bike option adds flexibility for riders who want less exertion, especially on longer stretches or if cycling isn’t your daily habit. Just remember to request this at booking.

Practical Details and Considerations

This tour departs promptly at 9:00 am from Bridgend Inspiring Growth, located at 41 Old Dalkeith Rd, Edinburgh. It’s near public transport, making it accessible for most travelers.

Cost-wise, at $115.94 per person, it offers good value, especially given all equipment provided—manual bikes, helmets, and gloves (during winter). The small group size enhances safety and interaction, making it a more intimate experience.

The tour is weather-dependent, so if the weather’s poor, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Travelers coming from cruise ships should note that the start time might not suit a late arrival, so plan accordingly or contact the provider.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a cycling enthusiast or simply enjoy exploring new places on two wheels, this tour is a great fit. It’s perfect for those who want to see a different side of Edinburgh—beyond the Royal Mile and major landmarks—and appreciate scenic waterways and lesser-known neighborhoods.

Travelers who value small-group experiences will find this tour particularly appealing. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, providing insights that enhance your understanding of Edinburgh’s history, culture, and geography.

It’s also well-suited for those who prefer a leisurely pace—the ride is smooth and mostly flat—making it accessible to most moderate cyclists. However, confident riding skills are necessary for the full 20-mile route.

Finally, if you’re visiting Portobello or Leith and want a day out that combines outdoor activity with local flavor, this tour offers a memorable, active way to enjoy Edinburgh.

The Sum Up

This award-winning cycling tour of Edinburgh combines scenic beauty, historical insights, and a personal touch in a way few other experiences can match. With expert guides, quiet routes, and a diverse itinerary, it offers a perfect blend of adventure and education. The focus on less touristy neighborhoods makes it ideal for travelers eager to see Edinburgh through a different lens.

You’ll love the scenic waterways, the chance to learn intriguing stories from guides like Jill and Gail, and the freedom of exploring at your own pace. Whether you’re a confident cyclist or someone who enjoys a leisurely pedal, this tour promises a fun, informative, and authentic day in Scotland’s capital.

For those seeking a active, intimate, and truly local experience, this Edinburgh cycling tour is a standout choice—worth every penny for the memorable sights and stories you’ll take home.

FAQ

Do I need to be an avid cyclist to join this tour?
No, but you should be able to ride confidently for about 20 miles. The route is mostly flat and on traffic-free paths, making it accessible for most moderate cyclists.

Can I rent an e-bike instead of a manual bike?
Yes, e-bikes are available for an additional £20 per person, but you must request this at the time of booking.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring water, your preferred snacks, and if you like, a camera to capture the scenic views. Coffee and tea are not included, but there are cafes along the route.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Bridgend Inspiring Growth, 41 Old Dalkeith Rd, Edinburgh at 9:00 am and concludes back at the same point.

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
It’s best for those with confident cycling skills and moderate fitness, so families with children should assess whether their kids can handle the distance and terrain.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 4.5 hours, covering around 20 miles, including stops and photo opportunities.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Are helmets and safety equipment provided?
Yes, helmets are included, along with gloves in winter. Manual bikes are supplied as part of the tour price.

How many people typically participate?
The group size is limited to a maximum of six, ensuring a relaxed, personalized experience.