The canal provides a great route in and out of the city, ideal
if you commute by bike, but also great for an excursion or to keep
fit.
The canal towpath is open to cyclists, but watch out for the
bumps and narrow sections.
Check our Canal Works &
Boater's Updates page for details of current works along the
Union Canal.
Safe cycling
- Alert walkers by ringing your bell and
always give way to walkers.
- The towpath is often only 1m wide, and can be wet and uneven.
Take extra care. It is being upgraded and widened in sections.
- Dismount at all road crossings, bridges, aqueducts and blind
bends and at canal weirs, including cobbled weirs.
- Do not speed, speed causes accidents !
East to West
Cycling along the canal from Edinburgh to the Falkirk
Wheel
Edinburgh Quay: 0km
Viewforth Bridge: 0.5km
Slateford Aqueduct: 3km, Dismount
Almond Aqueduct: 15km, Dismount
M8 Bridge: 19.6km, Suitable for cyclists
Avon Aqueduct: 34.5km, Dismount
Falkirk Tunnel: 45.9km, Dismount - 631 metres
long. You will need a torch or bike lights.