05/05/2021
Embarking on a cycling journey from the historic heart of Edinburgh to the charming town of Penicuik is a popular pursuit for many keen cyclists. It offers a wonderful blend of urban departure, rural tranquility, and a rewarding physical challenge. While Penicuik itself doesn't boast its own train station, the question of whether you can combine pedal power with the convenience of rail travel is a pertinent one, especially for those looking to shorten their ride, tackle only part of the journey, or simply make the return trip less arduous. This comprehensive guide will explore the cycling routes, delve into the practicalities of taking your bike on the train in Scotland, and help you plan your perfect two-wheeled adventure.
The journey from Edinburgh to Penicuik typically covers a distance of around 10 to 12 miles, depending on your exact starting point in the capital and your chosen route. It's important to note that Penicuik sits at a higher elevation than Edinburgh, meaning the ride is generally an uphill climb, particularly noticeable in the latter half. While this presents a good workout, the rewards are ample: stunning countryside views, fresh air, and a sense of accomplishment upon arrival.
Several routes connect Edinburgh to Penicuik, catering to different preferences for terrain and traffic. The most favoured and safest option for many cyclists involves utilising parts of the National Cycle Network (NCN).
The Innocent Railway Path and Beyond
One of the most popular starting points for cyclists heading south from Edinburgh is the Innocent Railway Path. This traffic-free route begins near St. Leonard's in Edinburgh and follows the course of an old railway line, offering a gentle gradient and a peaceful escape from city traffic. It's particularly suitable for families or those who prefer a more relaxed start to their journey.
The Innocent Railway Path forms part of National Cycle Network Route 1 (NCN 1). While NCN 1 continues south towards the Borders, you'll need to diverge from it to reach Penicuik. After the Innocent Railway Path, routes typically involve transitioning onto quieter roads through areas like Dalkeith, Eskbank, or Lasswade. From these points, well-signposted cycle routes or less-trafficked local roads lead directly to Penicuik. The final stretch into Penicuik often involves some more significant climbs, requiring a bit of extra effort, but the scenery becomes increasingly rural and beautiful.
Alternative Road Routes
For more experienced cyclists or those comfortable with road riding, direct road routes exist. These often involve main roads out of Edinburgh, such as the A701 or A702, which can be busier but offer a more direct path. However, for leisure cycling, the NCN-linked routes are generally preferred for their safety and scenic appeal. Regardless of your chosen path, it’s advisable to plan your route in advance using cycling-specific maps or apps like Komoot, Strava, or Google Maps with cycling layers enabled. These tools can help you identify elevation changes and quieter roads.
Taking Your Bike on Scottish Trains: ScotRail Policies
As mentioned, Penicuik does not have a train station. The closest operational stations on the Borders Railway line are Eskbank and Newcraighall. This means you cannot take a train directly to Penicuik. However, you can certainly use the train to shorten your cycling distance or for your return journey to Edinburgh from one of these nearby stations.
ScotRail's Bicycle Carriage Policy
ScotRail, the primary train operator in Scotland, generally accommodates bicycles on their services, but there are important rules and considerations you need to be aware of:
- Space Availability: Bicycle spaces on ScotRail services are limited and are usually available on a 'first come, first served' basis. This is particularly true for standard, non-folding bikes.
- Peak Times: During peak commuting hours (typically Monday to Friday, 07:00-09:30 and 16:00-18:30), space for bikes can be very scarce or even restricted on some routes. It is highly recommended to travel off-peak if you are bringing a full-sized bicycle.
- Designated Areas: Many ScotRail trains have designated bicycle storage areas, often marked with bicycle symbols. You are expected to place your bike in these areas and not obstruct aisles or doorways.
- Folding Bikes: Folding bicycles are generally much easier to transport. When folded, they are considered luggage and can be carried on any train service without restriction, provided they fit in the luggage racks or can be stowed safely without blocking aisles. This offers significant flexibility.
- Reservations: While not usually required for short, local journeys like those on the Borders Railway, for longer intercity ScotRail journeys (e.g., Glasgow to Fort William), it is often possible and highly recommended to reserve a bike space in advance. This option is not available for the shorter commuter services relevant to your Edinburgh to Penicuik journey.
Given that Penicuik lacks a station, if you cycle from Edinburgh to Penicuik and then wish to take a train back to Edinburgh, your strategy would involve cycling from Penicuik to either Eskbank or Newcraighall station and boarding a Borders Railway service from there. This adds an extra cycling leg to your return journey but can save you from cycling the entire distance back uphill from Penicuik to Edinburgh.
Combining Train and Cycle: Strategic Approaches
While you can't train directly to Penicuik, integrating train travel can still make your cycling trip more manageable or enjoyable.
Option 1: Full Cycle Out and Back
This is the purest cycling experience. You ride the entire distance from Edinburgh to Penicuik and then back to Edinburgh. This offers the greatest challenge and sense of achievement, but it requires good fitness, especially for the uphill journey to Penicuik and the return leg.
Option 2: Cycle Out, Train Back from a Nearby Station
A popular choice for many. You cycle the entire scenic route from Edinburgh to Penicuik. After exploring Penicuik, you then cycle a short distance (approx. 3-5 miles) from Penicuik to a Borders Railway station such as Eskbank or Newcraighall. From there, you can catch a ScotRail train back to Edinburgh Waverley or Haymarket. This option allows you to enjoy the full outbound cycle without the fatigue of the return climb.
Option 3: Train Out, Cycle Back
Less common for this specific route due to Penicuik's lack of a station. However, hypothetically, you could take a train from Edinburgh to Eskbank or Newcraighall, then cycle from that station to Penicuik (and potentially back to the station for the return train, or cycle the rest of the way back to Edinburgh). This approach might appeal if you want to focus your cycling efforts on the Penicuik area itself or if you're exploring other parts of Midlothian.
Comparative Analysis: Cycling vs. Train-Assisted Journeys
To help you decide the best approach for your Edinburgh to Penicuik adventure, here's a comparison of the different methods:
| Journey Type | Effort Level | Time Taken (Approx.) | Cost | Scenery | Convenience | Train Dependency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full Cycle (Out & Back) | High (especially uphill) | 2-3 hours each way | Low (bike maintenance) | Excellent, full immersion | High (self-sufficient) | None |
| Cycle Out, Train Back (from Eskbank/Newcraighall) | Medium-High (outbound) | 2-2.5 hours out, 30-45 mins train+cycle back | Low (train fare + bike maintenance) | Excellent outbound | Medium (need to align with train times) | Medium (for return) |
| Train Out (to Eskbank/Newcraighall), Cycle to Penicuik & Back to Station | Medium | 30-45 mins train, 1-1.5 hours cycle each way | Low (train fare + bike maintenance) | Good (focused on Penicuik area) | Medium (need to align with train times) | High (for both legs) |
Essential Tips for Your Ride
Before you set off, consider these practical tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable cycling experience:
- Bike Check: Always perform a quick check of your bike before setting off. Ensure your tyres are properly inflated, brakes are working effectively, and your chain is lubricated.
- Safety First: Wear a helmet. Ensure your bike has working lights, especially if there's any chance you'll be cycling in low light conditions. Reflective clothing is also highly recommended.
- Navigation: Carry a fully charged phone with a GPS app or a physical map. Signal can be patchy in some rural areas, so consider downloading offline maps.
- Weather Preparedness: Scottish weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared for all conditions – bring waterproofs, even on a sunny day, and layer your clothing.
- Hydration and Snacks: Carry plenty of water and some energy-boosting snacks, especially given the uphill sections of the ride.
- Repair Kit: A basic puncture repair kit, tyre levers, and a small pump can be lifesavers. Knowing how to use them is even better.
- Respect for Paths: If using shared-use paths, be mindful of pedestrians and other cyclists. Ring your bell and pass with care.
- Train Timing: If planning to use the train, check ScotRail's timetable in advance, especially for off-peak services where bike space is more readily available. Be aware that during busy periods, you might have to wait for the next train if bike spaces are full.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is the cycling route from Edinburgh to Penicuik very difficult?
A: The route has some noticeable uphill sections, particularly as you approach Penicuik. It's not overly steep in most places, but it does require a reasonable level of fitness. The traffic-free sections like the Innocent Railway Path are very easy.
Q: Are there places to stop for refreshments along the way?
A: Yes, there are villages and towns like Dalkeith, Eskbank, and Lasswade en route or slightly off-route that offer cafes and shops. Penicuik itself has various amenities.
Q: Can I rent a bike in Edinburgh if I don't own one?
A: Absolutely. Edinburgh has several bike rental shops where you can hire road bikes, hybrid bikes, or even e-bikes for your journey.
Q: What's the best time of year to cycle this route?
A: Spring and summer (April to September) generally offer the best weather conditions for cycling in Scotland, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. However, be prepared for rain at any time of year.
Q: How far is Eskbank or Newcraighall station from Penicuik?
A: Eskbank station is approximately 3-4 miles east of Penicuik, and Newcraighall is a bit further north-east. Cycling to these stations from Penicuik is manageable but adds to your total cycling distance.
Q: Can I take an e-bike on ScotRail trains?
A: Yes, standard e-bikes are generally permitted on ScotRail services under the same conditions as regular bicycles, provided they fit within the designated spaces and are not oversized or unusually heavy.
Conclusion
Cycling from Edinburgh to Penicuik is a highly rewarding experience, offering a beautiful escape into the Midlothian countryside. While a direct train link to Penicuik doesn't exist, the option of combining your ride with a train journey from nearby Borders Railway stations provides excellent flexibility. Whether you choose to challenge yourself with the full out-and-back cycle or prefer the convenience of a train-assisted return, planning your route and understanding ScotRail's bike policies will ensure a smooth and enjoyable adventure. So, pump up your tyres, check the forecast, and get ready to explore the scenic trails connecting Edinburgh to Penicuik by bike!
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