Traffic-free cycling returned to Edinburgh today as 1,500 riders of all ages took part in the city’s Sky Ride. Riders joined a 5 km loop of Holyrood Park, circling the magnificent Arthur’s Seat.

Some people had prepared for the occasion and made sure both they and their bikes were looking the part. Others had simply dusted off the bikes that had been at the back of the shed for far too long. Bikes of every shape and size, age and style, were out in force.

Local residents were joined by two athletes from the Great Britain Para-Cycling Squad - Paralympian Rhiannon Henry and Pilot Fiona Duncan. The girls cycled the route on their spectacular tandem bike and spurred on cyclists taking part in the legendary watt bike challenge at the Team Sky tent.

Halfords cycle experts were on hand to make sure that bikes were in top shape for the ride. Riders enjoyed a break at the Bike Cafe, where they found out about other local cycling opportunities, and picked up some delicious Jaffa fruit and goodies. There was plenty of free entertainment on offer too, with live music and lots of sporting activities to try out. The Japanese Taiko drummers who encouraged riders along the hillier section of the route were very popular!

Graeme McDonald from Leith brought his wife and three kids along. ‘We’ve had a great time. It’s given us a chance to do something all together as a family, and it’s always nice to have a free day out. I think we’ll be getting the bikes out more often in future!’

And Peter Riddell from British Cycling added: ‘We’re delighted to be working with the City of Edinburgh Council and Scottish Cycling again to bring this event back to the city. It’s been wonderful to see so many people out on their bikes today, and we hope it helps reignite a real love of cycling.’

Sky Ride Edinburgh is just one way to enjoy cycling in Edinburgh. Sky Ride Local rides are smaller guided rides with British Cycling Ride Leaders. And Social Cycling Groups are a great way to create your own network of riding buddies, and organise your own rides.