London and Edinburgh family bike rides: New cycling guidebooks from Sustrans and Ordnance Survey

At Cycle Sprog, we know just how life-changing family cycling adventures can be, and how overwhelming it can feel knowing where to start. That’s why we’re so excited to see Sustrans and Ordnance Survey come together to publish these new family cycling guidebooks for London and Edinburgh.

As the UK’s go-to website for cycling with kids, we’re always looking for trusted tools to help families enjoy fun, safe, and stress-free rides, especially in busy urban areas. These books are a brilliant addition to the family cycling toolkit.

New Family Cycling Guidebooks for London and Edinburgh Released by Sustrans and Ordnance Survey

Sustrans, the UK charity championing walking, wheeling and cycling, has teamed up with national mapping experts Ordnance Survey to publish two exciting new cycling guidebooks aimed at families.

The books, Cycling London: Family Adventures for Urban Explorers and Cycling Edinburgh: Family Adventures for Urban Explorers, feature a collection of routes designed to help families discover safe, enjoyable, and mostly traffic-free ways to explore both capital cities by bike.

Each guide includes ten hand-picked routes suitable for riders of all ages and abilities. Inside, you’ll find:

• Bright, easy-to-follow maps and step-by-step directions
• Downloadable GPX files and OS map links
• Useful transport and bike hire details for each route
• Fun stops like playgrounds, picnic areas, swimming pools and more
• Activity ideas and quiz questions to keep kids entertained
• Clear info on path surfaces and any potential barriers

Whether you're looking for a fun-filled family day out or planning a car-free city break this summer, these beautifully illustrated guides are designed to make urban cycling simple and stress-free.

Issy Pritchard, Ecommerce Manager at Sustrans said,

The outdoors is a fantastic place to enjoy with loved ones, but we know that planning safe, child-friendly cycling trips can be tricky. We’ve created these guidebooks to help parents create unforgettable days out, and we can’t wait to hear all about the adventures they inspire.”

Nick Giles OBE, Managing Director of Ordnance Survey Leisure, said, “These fantastic new guidebooks are devoted to families who want to explore these historic capitals safely on two wheels.

The 10 routes mapped out clearly in each book will lead you to key landmarks, green spaces and water ways, but they also incorporate National Cycle Network routes that reveal lesser-known spots to discover.”   

The guidebooks are available now via the OS Shop.

Want more family cycling route inspiration?

If you're not based in London or Edinburgh, or if these guidebooks have inspired you to explore more, Cycle Sprog has you covered. Our ever-growing Where to Ride section features tried-and-tested family-friendly cycling routes across the UK, from seaside paths to forest trails and urban greenways. Whether you’re planning a staycation, a weekend microadventure, or simply looking for a local spin that’ll keep everyone smiling, we’re here to help you find your next two-wheeled adventure. Explore the routes at Where to Ride.