The Essential Glasgow Bike & E Bike Tour

duration: 3 hours
cancellation_summary: 24 Hours before tour start
meeting_point: 38 Howard Street, Glasgow
min_age: 13
group_size: Maximum 8
description: Join me on a journey through a city born out of the 6th century. Travel through its historic and folkloric past to its vibrant and modern present.

By using, arguably, Scotlands finest invention, the pedal bicycle, we can start in the centre and ride to the farther reaches of Scotlands largest city. Utilising its excellent network of bike lanes, river paths and quiet roads.

We will begin at the worlds third oldest subway station before the short hop to some famous street art of a national hero. Joining the relaxing River Clyde cycle lanes we can pay tribute to its global shipbuilding notoriety which helped turn Glasgow into “The Second City of the Empire.”

Reaching the West End we can visit one of the worlds oldest and most beautiful centres of learning at Glasgow University and the splendid Kelvingrove Museum & Park.

Diving into the hidden, leafy paths below the city we will follow the River Kelvin north before joining the Forth & Clyde Canal to enjoy beautiful views from high above its famous tenement buildings.

This will lead us towards the origins of the city around The Royal Infirmary, Glasgow Cathedral and its Necropolis, on the site that the city was founded in 550AD. Finishing off with a pedal to The Peoples Palace and Glasgow Green before completing our loop.

We will discuss ancient folklore, local heroes, triumphs, tragedies, art, sport, invention and science. Getting to know each other as well as the city and country that surrounds us.
what_is_included: - Use of Standard Bike / E-Bike
- Helmet (mandatory)
what_is_not_included: Water - We encourage the use of reusable water bottle to reduces single use plastic.
Rain coats - I will have a few spare but please come prepared for the forecast weather conditions.
itinerary: 1. St Enoch Square
2. Billy Connolly Mural
3. Clydeside
4. Finnieston Crane, Armadillo, OVO Hydro
5. Glenlee Tallship, Transport Museum
6. Kelvingrove Park & Museum
7. University of Glasgow - Gilmerton Building
8. River Kelvin Path
9. Forth & Clyde Canal
10. Glasgow Cathedral
11. Glasgow Necropolis
12. Peoples Palace
13. Glasgow Green
highlights: The main highlight of our bike tour is reaching the farther reaches of the city that you would certainly miss otherwise. Cruise past iconic spots like the Billy Connolly mural, the River Clyde, Kelvingrove Museum, and the gothic beauty of Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis. Explore riverside paths, canals, and green parks with ease—thanks to our bikes and E Bikes. A fun, immersive ride through the city's stories, street art, and hidden gems.
check_in_details: Please aim to arrive 15 minutes early so we can introduce ourselves, get set up and have our briefing.
what_to_bring: Water - preferably in reusable bottle.
Weather appropriate clothing.
Flat soled shoes advisable.
special_requirements: Age 13+ for scheduled tours.
Age 14+ for E Bike use.

restrictions: All participants must be able to safely and comfortably pedal, stop and turn a bicycle. Inability to do the basics of cycling may result in your experience being stopped.

If you are able to comfortably ride a bicycle you are very welcome to join us.
disclaimers: All participants must be able to safely and comfortably pedal, stop and turn a bicycle. Inability to do the basics of cycling may result in your experience being stopped.

By booking your tour with us you are confirming you are able to ride a bicycle.
faqs: Is the ride difficult?:

I have curated the route to be as easy as it can be, but Glasgow is a city built on a few hills. There will be some inclines to tackle but if you are in any doubt, you can choose an E Bike and forgo any challenges. Our pace will always be relaxed and in 6 years I have never left anyone behind! Cycling is relative, if you would like my advice, get in touch.

Do I need to be an experienced cyclist?

No, our ride is a simple and relaxed ride around the city, if you can ride a bicycle, you will enjoy my tour. You must be able to pedal, turn and stop a bicycle safely. If you cannot then your experience may be stopped for your safety and the safety of others.

Is the city safe to ride in?:

Glasgow has a myriad of well signed and separated bicycle lanes which keep us out of traffic. To get to the best parts of the city we will use these the vast majority of the time and only link the lanes up with quiet stretches of road. My overriding priority at every moment of our tour is the safety of my guests and the route we take emphasises this.

Do I need to wear a helmet?

For my tours, helmets are mandatory. Helmet use is not the law in Scotland but it is highly recommended for anyone that cycles. Simply put, the safer you are from the risk of injury the better it is for yourself, others and me. Your helmet will be provided.

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes, all participants must book in advance.

Is there a maximum number of participants?

In line with British Cycling guidelines, the maximum number of participants is 8. Private tour options are more flexible but no more than 10.

What if it rains?

Scotland is famous for many things: Whisky, golf, haggis…..and rain. I think Scotland is great in all weathers, in fact with a little rain you are really getting the full, traditional experience. So, check the forecast and make sure to bring a rain coat. Of course, on some occasions the rain will be too heavy for our tour to be enjoyable and in these instances we will cancel and refund or preferably reschedule for another day!

What languages do your guides speak?

Unfortunately, I only speak English (with a Scottish but clear accent!)

Are there restroom stops along the route?

There are public toilets at around the half way point and if we have decided to stop for refreshments there will be opportunity there as well.

What happens if you, the guest, are running late?

We ask everyone to arrive 15 minutes before the tour start time so we can get set up. If you are going to be late you can call me. I understand that things outwith our control can happen but if it is going to inconvenience other guests we will have to leave for our ride on time and you will be unable to join. I will always endeavour to reschedule.

How do E Bikes work?

Our E Bikes are E Assist Bikes, meaning they must still be pedalled and you can choose your assistance level throughout the ride. It is a simple system and, when used efficiently, make any incline a breeze.I will explain to everyone their simple use before we begin our ride.

Can I bring my own bike?

Absolutely! Just let me know in advance so I don't arrive with a bicycle for you.

Do you offer group discounts?

Send me an enquiry and I will see what can be done. Private tours are also available.

Are the tours suitable for children?

Children under the age of 13 are not permitted on the scheduled tours but can be booked as private tours. If the child is confident at cycling then they are absolutely welcome on a private tour and the logistics can be discussed before hand. E Bikes are for 14 years and over by law.

Is there a place to store my belongings or luggage?

Our start point is next to St Enoch Subway Station which has luggage storage for £5 a day, there is also storage at Central Station and Queen Street Station. Please allow time to sort this out before your tour start.

How old is that wall?

A question I have been asked more times that any other! Simply put, sometimes I know and sometimes I don't. Glasgow has been built up over 1600 years so feel free to ask the age of any wall you see and I will try my best!