Musselburgh to Dalkeith via Whitecraigs

This route starts by the River Esk (map or grid reference to be supplied.) It is a fairly gentle climb for the most part along a path used by cyclists, pedestrians and dogs. It also forms part of the No 1 National Cycleway.

There are a few possible turn offs along the way towards Newcraighall - leading in turn to the Innocent Railway, but staying on the path eventually brings you under the A1 and then to a short steep climb up to the road. The official route turns right, although it's quite possible to go left and take a small detour.

Turning right brings you up to a roundabout - carrying straight on will take you into Dalkeith on a rather busy road. Turning left will take you into Whitecraigs. Continue straight through and a little way further along on the right hand side is another path. If you get to the roundabout you have gone too far. Turn up the path and after a couple of twists and turns it straightens out and continues all the way up to the new Dalkeith High school. Following the marked cycleway will bring you into Dalkeith - the last bit is on the main road and can be a little bit hairy at busy times.

Additional

I use this as part of a 25 mile round trip from my house, down to the Roseburn cycle path, all the way down to the end at Leith, along through Portobello and along to Musselburgh and then the aforementioned route, through Dalkeith and then usually picking up the Penicuick - Dalkeith route to the A68, across the bypass and back into town. The last 5 miles isn't so great - but it's a route I can do in about an hour and a half.