Cycling with the Family in Edinburgh: Parks, Paths and Peaceful Rides
Jun 17, 2025
A must for parents looking for safe, scenic routes that kids can enjoy too
If you’re planning a day out in Edinburgh and want to experience the city in a slower, more connected way, there’s no better option than cycling. Whether you’re on a weekend break, a half-term trip, or simply hoping to encourage your children to spend more time outdoors, Edinburgh offers a treasure trove of family-friendly cycling routes that combine safety, scenery and a little splash of adventure.
Thanks to its expanding network of traffic-free cycleways, historic railway paths and coastal promenades, the Scottish capital is one of the most accessible and scenic cities to explore by bike. From wide open parks like Holyrood to coastal escapes like Portobello, there’s something for every skill level and age.
For parents considering an electric bike, many of these routes are the perfect place to test out what an e-bike can do. At Glide & Gear, we offer a range of electric bikes ideal for city riding, family outings and everyday commutes.
Why Edinburgh is Perfect for Family Cycling
Flat Trails, Car-Free Paths and Green Spaces Galore
Edinburgh’s diverse landscape may be famous for its hills and historic climbs, but it also boasts a surprising number of flat and family-friendly routes. From wide esplanades like Silverknowes to former railway paths now transformed into leafy greenways, most trails are accessible for young riders and parents on cargo bikes or electric bicycles.
Some of the most loved areas for family cycling include:
- Holyrood Park
- The Innocent Railway Path
- The Union Canal
- Leith to Portobello Promenade
- Silverknowes and Cramond
And if you’re cycling with toddlers or little ones still finding their feet, parks like Holyrood and Inverleith offer open paths perfect for first-time pedallers. Our sister site, Little Gliders, has a delightful range of kids’ scooters and trikes suited for these very adventures.
Top 7 Family-Friendly Cycle Routes in Edinburgh
1. Holyrood Park Loop
Located at the foot of the Royal Mile, Holyrood Park offers some of the most iconic views in the city. The road that winds through the park is closed to traffic on Sundays (8:30am to 5:30pm), making it one of the safest and most scenic routes for families.
You can follow a paved route that passes by Arthur’s Seat, St Margaret’s Loch (keep an eye out for swans), the Scottish Parliament and Dynamic Earth. Electric bikes make climbing the occasional steep hill feel like a breeze, allowing you to focus on the views and the joy of cycling together.
2. Leith Links to Portobello Promenade
Start at the open grasslands of Leith Links and cycle east towards Portobello via a newly upgraded path along Seafield Road. It’s flat, wide and perfect for scooters, trikes, and adult bikes alike. Once at the beach, reward the little ones with an ice cream or quick dip in the sea.
This route is ideal for parents using e-bikes with child seats or cargo-style bikes, and for kids who love feeling the sea breeze.
3. The Innocent Railway Path
Originally built in 1831 as a horse-drawn tramway, the Innocent Railway has become a family favourite thanks to its smooth, green trail and historic Victorian tunnel. Starting at St Leonard’s, this route takes you through Holyrood Park, Duddingston, and Niddrie, eventually leading out to Brunstane.
The path is mostly flat, making it great for electric bikes and riders of all levels. The dimly lit tunnel adds a little thrill for children (and a great photo op!).
4. Union Canal Towpath
Starting at Lochrin Basin in Fountainbridge, the Union Canal path is a fully flat, traffic-free route that stretches west towards Ratho. It’s one of the most tranquil places to ride in the city, flanked by houseboats, narrow bridges, and birdsong.
Perfect for families looking for a longer ride. E-bikes shine here, especially when you're towing a trailer or managing tired legs on the way back.
5. Silverknowes to Cramond Village
A wide, paved esplanade leads you from Silverknowes to Cramond, with panoramic views over the Firth of Forth. Watch boats bobbing in the water, stop for snacks at the beach cafés, or even walk out to Cramond Island (tide times permitting).
Bring a camera, some water, and enjoy the sea air. This path is popular with cyclists, walkers and skaters, so best enjoyed on quieter weekday mornings.
6. Roseburn to Blackhall and Craigleith
The Roseburn Path connects key city areas through former railway lines. It joins up with the Telford Path, offering a leafy ride past shopping stops at Craigleith and ending at Haymarket Station. You can also divert north-west toward Cramond Brig.
The surface is well maintained, and gradients are gentle. Older kids can gain confidence here, and it’s a great commuter route for parents testing out an electric bike.
7. Family-Friendly Guided Tours
Several local providers offer guided rides tailored for families. Notably:
- Edinburgh Bike Tours runs a 5-mile tour from Leith to Newhaven Harbour, the Western Breakwater, and Victoria Park. It’s flat, safe and fun, with views of the Forth Bridges.
- A Wee Pedal offers coastal and city tours with manual or electric bike options. Routes include the Union Canal, Arthur’s Seat, and Portobello Beach. Many families say these tours were the highlight of their Edinburgh stay.
Making the Most of Your Ride
Tips for Cycling in Edinburgh with Kids
- Plan for the weather – Edinburgh can be unpredictable. Waterproofs and layers are key.
- Snack stops make everything better. Pack a picnic or plan for café breaks.
- Helmets are essential. Glide & Gear stocks adjustable, lightweight helmets for all ages.
- Start small – Choose shorter routes like Holyrood Park or Leith Links before attempting canal paths or guided tours.
Why Electric Bikes Are a Game-Changer for Families
E-bikes take the pressure off and help you go further, faster and with less effort. Parents love the assist up hills, while still enjoying fresh air and outdoor time. Many of our customers say an e-bike made it possible to keep up with their kids or extend rides beyond what they thought was possible.
If you’re considering investing in one, Glide & Gear offers test rides, expert advice and a curated range of electric bikes perfect for Edinburgh terrain. From step-through city e-bikes to family cargo models, we’ll help you find the perfect match.
Final Thoughts
Cycling with your family in Edinburgh isn’t just a way to get from A to B — it’s a lifestyle. It’s the joy of discovering new places, spending quality time together, and watching your children grow more confident with every ride.
With peaceful parks, picturesque paths and a wealth of e-bike friendly trails, Edinburgh is a cycling city built for families. So why not plan your next adventure on two wheels?
Visit Glide & Gear to explore our collection of electric bikes, helmets and accessories, and let the ride begin.
