Cycling in Scotland

There are many ways to explore Scotland, but we reckon getting around by bike is a mighty fine way indeed.

There are several ways to enjoy cycling in Scotland, with some brilliant options for cycling holidays and just as many great choices for short bike rides to pass a leisurely morning or an afternoon. With lots of options for cycle hire and a number of cycling tours, it really is easy to kick your Scottish holiday up a gear.

So, get on yer bike, and get around via Scotland's dedicated network of cycle routes!

You can now travel short distances of around 5 miles to enjoy the outdoors and exercise in Scotland, to use public spaces for recreational purposes such as sitting to soak up the sun (where possible!), and to meet up with one other household in small numbers. Please remember to maintain physical distancing of 2 metres at all times, both indoors and outdoors.

The following activities are also now possible following the above advice during advice during Phase 1: cycling, fishing, horse riding, golf, walking, hiking and watersports.

Cycle hire in Scotland

If you aren't bringing your bike to Scotland but you fancy a cycle, then you'll need to hire one!

You will find dedicated cycle shops which offer bike hire in Scotland and specialise in top quality bikes. The staff will be able to sort you out with a suitable bike to meet your needs and adequately prepare you for your cycling adventure.

New to Edinburgh is Just Eat Cycles. One of the most efficient and eco-friendly ways you can journey around a bustling city is by bike. Across Edinburgh there are dozens of stations where you can pick up or drop off your hire bike, which you can book and buy passes for through the app.

In Glasgow and Stirling, you can pick up bicycles from nextbike at any time of day - it's easy to arrange your hire via the app, online or by telephone.

Cycling holidays and tours

A cycling holiday is a great way to see Scotland and with a choice of dedicated cycle routes around the country, it's more a question of where do you want to start!

Why go on a cycling holiday in Scotland?

• It's an awesome way to see the best of our islands, coast, lochs, countryside, towns and villages, and there are plenty of great points to stop for a breather and a lovely view.
• The National Cycle Network makes it easy to get around on quiet roads and traffic-free paths. Many routes are suitable for families.
• There's great cycle-friendly accommodation. The VisitScotland Cyclists Welcome scheme recognises establishments which go the extra mile to help make your trip go smoothly, from drying facilities to flexible dinner times.
• Scotland has a relatively mild climate (but bear in mind that the weather can change, so be prepared for a range of conditions!)
• One of the best things about any cycle trip is stopping for a well-earned break! In Scotland, you can stop for a picnic at some truly picturesque places, including beside ancient castles and on the banks of famous lochs. 

Fancy a tour?

Whether you've got a couple of hours or a couple of weeks, there are some great companies who can provide you with guided trips or plan a self-led itinerary which will take you across Scotland's regions. Choose from the likes of:

• A pleasant afternoon's cycle from Edinburgh to South Queensferry and the Forth Bridges.
• An island-hopping bike tour along the gentle, quiet roads of the Outer Hebrides. Follow the Hebridean Way Cycle Route which crosses 10 islands.
• A challenging and exhilarating road bike trip through the mountainous landscape of Applecross in the Highlands.

Cycling events

In Scotland, we really love cycling, so much so that we put on some rather wonderful events to celebrate the joys of being on two wheels.

The festivals serve up a thrilling programme, from events such as cyclo-cross to family ride outs, as well as an exciting social scene. Why not see if any cycling festivals are on whilst you are visiting and join in with the velo action?