Cycling & Mountain Biking

Whether you’re into cycling or mountain biking, rural or urban routes, there’s sure to be something to suit. 

Cycling across the Forth Road Bridge

Cycle across the Forth Road bridge and you’ll get spectacular views of the Forth Bridge and the Queensferry Crossing plus an exhilarating sense of the immense scales.

With much of the traffic now taking the Queensferry Crossing, it’s relatively quiet with wide shared-use pedestrian and cycle lanes on both sides keeping cyclists separate from road vehicles. The east cycle lane links into National Cycle Route 1 and is kept open at all times except in high winds above 50mph. The west footpath is routinely closed to the public to separate maintenance traffic from cyclists and pedestrians. 

If there is a requirement to use the east footpath for maintenance activity, these arrangements will sometimes be reversed - you can always check the planned roadworks page to confirm which footpath is currently open.

Beneath the Three Bridges Route

This intermediate circular 17 mile route uses minor roads, the canal towpath and cycle paths to take in Dundas Castle, Blackness Castle, Hopetoun House and House of The Binns.

Along the way, you'll get some incredible views of the three bridges, especially as you cycle beneath them towards the end of the route.

Toilets and refreshments are available in South Queensferry, Blackness and in the grounds of Hopetoun House.

If you'd prefer a shorter route, there is a clearly marked shortcut which reduces the route to 10 miles.

Download Beneath the Three Bridges Route.

Round the Inner Forth

Discover some hidden gems on this new route around the inner Forth.  with new signage, a two-day tour, and a meticulously crafted itinerary for six-day trips accompanied by maps.

The full route is a 70 mile, two day circular trail which follows National Cycle Network Route 76 and promises breathtaking landscapes and a healthy and environmentally friendly way to explore the region. 

For a shorter route of 2-3 hours, pass under historic landmarks of Dundas Castle and Blackness Castle while enjoying scenic views of the Forth Bridges.

Find out more about the Round the Inner Forth Route.

Mountain Biking in South Queensferry

The Vat Run mountain bike trail is a community-run outdoor space with multiple user groups in mind including sporty types, wee ones and wildlife aficionados. It’s based in a park near South Queensferry Library and close to the Inchcolm Inn. The postcode is EH30 9RH.

There are also mountain bike trails and skills areas in Beecraigs Country Park near Linlithgow.

Cycling the John Muir Way

Cycling from South Queensferry to Edinburgh 

This 15.5-mile route gives you fabulous views of the bridges, especially if you are out at dawn or sunset. The whole route is waymarked, and you'll mostly use the shared walking and cycling route. However, in some places, the waymarked cycle route departs from the walking to cycling routes for a smoother and flatter journey.

Discover the route

Cycling the Forth Bridges Loop 

You’ll see lots of industrial heritage, castles and coast on this 48-mile loop. It can be done in one day, but many prefer to split it into two with an overnight stay en route. Mostly off-road, this is a fairly gentle, flat route with a couple of steep bits in Edinburgh and Linlithgow. The official route starts in Edinburgh, but you can obviously vary it to start and finish in South Queensferry.

Discover the route

Dundas Estate

The Dundas Estate is open for walking and cycling. The house is used for private events only, but it’s a nice place to take a stroll or bike ride. Please note that there is no parking available.

The Union Canal 

Explore the history, heritage and wildlife of the Union Canal as it flows from Edinburgh to Falkirk by foot or bike. The nearest access with a car park is the B8046 off Queensferry to Linlithgow road (A904).