Newhailes from Millerhill

We will ride on quiet roads from Millerhill through Danderhall to reach Little France Park. From here, it is a scenic downhill ride through the park with views of Arthur’s Seat and across to the coast. We then cross into Craigmillar Castle Park (with views of the castle) and cycle to Peffermill Road where we cross into Peffermill Industrial Estate. This leads to the Innocent cycle path, which we follow through Bingham to Brunstane. We then take National Cycle Route 1 to Newcraighall. After a short distance on Newhailes Road we reach the Newhailes Estate where we will stop for refreshments (toilets available).

After our break, we cross into Newhailes Industrial Estate in order to join a quiet path that follows the railway to Musselburgh train station. From here, we pass Queen Margaret University and then turn under the A1 and follow quiet roads to Hilltown. After cycling through a newbuild estate, we rejoin our outward route through Danderhall and back to Millerhill.

A ride to Newhailes with views of Craigmillar Castle, Arthur’s Seat and the East Lothian coast.

The route is mostly on cycle paths and quiet roads. There are some gentle hills, but we will take these steadily and never leave anyone behind. The surfaces are paved except for a short part in Craigmillar Castle Park which is compacted gravel. The ride is suitable for all bike types, as long as you are comfortable riding on the gravel section.

We will make brief stops at various points along the way to take in the views, and we will stop for refreshments in Newhailes house and gardens. As we will be cycling over lunch time, you may wish to either bring some lunch with you or buy something (e.g. soup, sandwich) at the Stables café. Hopefully the weather will be good enough for us to sit at the picnic tables in the enclosed courtyard.

We anticipate most riders will have their own bike. However, partnership with Cycling UK means we have a small number of bikes that can be borrowed. If you need to borrow a bike, you must let us know in advance. Bring a payment card or cash if you wish to buy any refreshments at our coffee stop. Helmets are strongly advised. Bring a spare inner tube (or two), and a lock if you have one, but don’t worry if you don’t as we can fasten our bikes to each other. Plan a means of getting home in the event of mechanical breakdown (call a friend, take a taxi etc).

First-timers welcome!