4.5
(507)
7,053
riders
332
rides
Touring cycling around Rosewell And District, a former mining village in Midlothian, Scotland, offers routes through varied landscapes. The area is characterized by rolling countryside, the scenic Roslin Glen Country Park, and the River North Esk. Access to national cycle routes like the NCR196 Penicuik to Musselburgh walkway provides dedicated paths for cyclists. The nearby Pentland Hills also contribute to the region's diverse terrain, offering opportunities for more challenging rides.
Last updated: April 29, 2026
4.5
(4)
53
riders
43.4km
03:05
470m
470m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.4
(11)
68
riders
21.0km
01:18
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
32
riders
13.0km
00:48
100m
100m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
22
riders
51.0km
03:53
610m
610m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
19
riders
32.9km
01:57
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Car-free mixed use path. Fair amount of foot traffic and some sections with tree roots, but overall a nice route.
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Fine to ascend / descend on a gravel bike. May need to hike a small 20m section depending on tyre width as the stones get a bit bigger for a small section, would be fine to ride down though
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Fine to ascend / descend on a gravel bike, not easy though :). There may be a small 20m section you have to hike depending on your tyre width as the stones get a bit bigger for a small section
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0
Small chapel at the exit of the village perched on a rocky spur, magnificent!
1
0
"Ramp" over cycle path at new development has exposed nails, double puncture this morning
1
0
Stunning views. Path gets very gravelly so care needed if you are less experienced off-road
0
0
Rosewell And District offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 340 options available. These routes cater to different skill levels, from easy rides to more challenging adventures.
The region features diverse terrain, including rolling countryside, scenic woodlands, and paths along the River North Esk. You'll find routes that follow old railway lines, like the NCR196 Penicuik to Musselburgh walkway, offering flatter, dedicated cycling paths, as well as routes with significant elevation changes, especially towards the nearby Pentland Hills.
Yes, there are many easy routes. For instance, the Roslin Glen Railway Tunnel – View of the River loop from Rosewell is an easy 8.1-mile (13.0 km) path that offers views of the River North Esk and passes through the historic Roslin Glen, making it a great option for a relaxed ride.
For those seeking a challenge, routes like the Loganlea Reservoir – Threipmuir Reservoir loop from Polton offer a difficult 26.9-mile (43.4 km) ride with significant elevation gain, exploring the area's reservoirs and natural landscapes. Another demanding option is the Loganlea Reservoir – Threipmuir Reservoir loop from Rosewell, a 31.7-mile (51.0 km) trail with over 600 meters of ascent.
Many routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Bilston Glen Bridge – Esk River Bridge loop from Roslin, a moderate 30.5-mile (49.0 km) ride, and the Penicuik Pond – Rosslyn Chapel loop from Roslin, which is 20.0 miles (32.2 km) long.
The touring cycling routes often integrate with historical sites. You can explore places like Roslin Castle and the iconic Rosslyn Chapel, known for its intricate carvings. Some trails also pass by the ruins of former gunpowder mills, offering glimpses into the region's industrial past.
Absolutely. The routes frequently pass through Roslin Glen Country Park, offering stunning views of the River North Esk. You might also encounter reservoirs like Glencorse Reservoir, and for panoramic vistas, highlights such as View from Allermuir Hill or the impressive Arthur's Seat are accessible nearby.
The touring cycling routes in Rosewell And District are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 480 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the scenic beauty of Roslin Glen, and the accessibility of dedicated cycle paths like the NCR196.
While many trails in the region are popular for walking with dogs, specific regulations for cycling with dogs can vary. It's always best to check local signage and ensure your dog is well-behaved and on a leash where required, especially in shared-use paths or nature reserves. The scenic woodland trails offer pleasant environments for both cyclists and their canine companions.
Rosewell provides good access to the national cycle route via the NCR196 Penicuik to Musselburgh walkway, which connects to nearby town centers like Bonnyrigg and Penicuik. Public transport links, including local bus services, can help you reach various starting points for routes, though it's advisable to check specific routes and their proximity to bus stops.
Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage. While cycling is possible year-round, be prepared for potentially wet and windy conditions, especially during winter months. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.
Yes, as Rosewell and the surrounding towns are well-established communities, you'll find various cafes, pubs, and other amenities. Many routes pass through or near villages where you can stop for refreshments, making it easy to refuel during your ride. It's a good idea to plan your route to include potential stops.


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