Malleny Garden from Saughton Park

We cycle on traffic-free paths, tracks and quiet roads to the tranquil Malleny Garden in Balerno.

We will take a lengthy break to enjoy and explore the grounds. If the weather is good, bring your own picnic - there are plenty of nooks and crannies with seating to rest and ponder. If the weather isn't so good, we'll take cover in a local cafe instead before making our return to Saughton.

The route to Balerno passes through the Colinton Tunnel and is gently uphill most of the way but we will take our time. Our return however, is refreshingly downhill!

There is currently a closure in place on the Water of Leith path in the Currie area (as of 13th June).
Our revised route will follow as much of the Water of Leith path as possible before diverting via Lymphoy on a gravel track to reach Malleny Garden, then homeward with a short stretch on quiet residential roads and a little on a busier road which we will navigate safely.

Due to the diversion, the terrain is rougher in parts (approximately 1 mile of gravel track at Lymphoy) than initially envisaged for this ride but is still manageable for most bikes.

Malleny is a National Trust for Scotland garden. Admission is free for members of NTS. For those who aren't members, pop a small donation in the honesty box at the gate (suggested £2.50 for concessions, £3.50 for the younger ones)

There are Sheffield bike stands outside the entrance where we can lock our bikes safely so bring a lock if you have one. We can share if necessary.

Bring something to drink, a snack or a picnic and a few coins for the honesty box if you're not a member of NTS. A method of payment if rain stops play so we need the indoor cafe stop!

Remember your camera!

As always, try to carry a spare inner tube for your bike and any tools to remove your wheel should it be necessary and have a plan to get home with your bike should you be unable to continue the ride (eg friend/taxi/rescue insurance)

Helmets are recommended.

An easygoing ride, almost entirely on traffic-free paths, to the tranquil Malleny Garden in Balerno.

Mostly traffic free paths with a few very short road sections. Tarmac and hard-packed gravel.

First-timers welcome!