Bike hire in Scotland

There's a great network of cycle shops that hire out top quality bikes and offer those last-minute spares or repairs if you're bringing your own bike. The friendly staff in these shops can often offer great advice on where to ride and what to see too.

Bike hire in the cities:

• Bike hire in Aberdeen: Cycle Grampian, Macdui Bikes
• Bike hire in Dundee: Electric Bikes Scotland, Dundee Cycle Hub 
• Bike hire in Edinburgh: ProjectRide Bike Shop, Leith Cycle Co, Tartan Bicycle Company, Voi E-bikes
• Bike hire in Glasgow: Glasgow Bike Station, nextbike UK, Gear Bikes Glasgow
• Bike hire in Inverness: Inverness Bike Hire, Ticket to Ride
• Bike hire in Perth: Willowgate Activity Centre
• Bike hire in Stirling: Cycle Hire Scotland, Stirling Cycles, nextbike UK, Katrine Wheelz by Stirling

Bike hire in the Highlands:

Aviemore Bikes, In Your Element Bike Hire in Aviemore, Off Beat Bikes in Fort William, Ullapool Bike Hire

Bike hire in the islands:

Cycle Orkney, Tiree Fitness, Skye eBikes, FatBike Islay 

Bike hire in the rest of Scotland:

Ride Scotland in Boat of Garten, Belhaven Bikes in Dunbar, Argyll Bike Hire at Lochgoilhead, Castle Douglas Cycles, Comrie Croft Bikes by Crieff, Progression Bikes in Dunkeld

How much does it cost to rent a bike in Scotland?

The price varies. A single day’s rental is usually pricier and typically costs around £20 – £25. But the cost drops to around £20 if you take the bike for a week or more, so look out for discounts for longer hire periods.

Expect to pay a little bit more for an electric bike, with prices starting around £50 per full day hire.

Do I need to reserve a bike?

It’s not necessary to reserve your bike as there are usually enough bikes available for rent on the day, however, it is advisable to book in advance if you want to be certain that you’re going to get one. 

Please note that if you wish to rent a specialty bike, or if you’re a larger group, we recommend making a reservation.

Is proof of identity and a deposit required?

Photo identification must be provided on the day of the hire.

Many cycle hire providers reserve the right to take a deposit to hold as security until the bike is returned in the condition it was hired out in.

What’s included in my bike rental? 

It’s always best to check with each individual rental company what’s included, but rental bikes often come with a helmet, strong lock, pump, repair kit, map and loads of great advice to ensure a fun day out. 

If a helmet is not included, you should still be able to book one on site as an extra and you should also be able to take out optional insurance if you wish to do so. 

There are lots of extras you can add on to keep you going on your trip like seat covers, mitts and trailers. You are also likely to be charged extra for a pannier or a saddle bag. 

Are bicycle helmets compulsory in Scotland? 

No, wearing a helmet when cycling is not required by law in the UK. However, it is strongly encouraged to wear a helmet while cycling in Scotland.

Can I park my bike anywhere?

You should try to park your bike at designated parking spots or bike racks. On street cycle parking facilities are provided in most cities and towns.

Cycle parking facilities can include individual cycle stands, bike shelters, cycle lockers, secure storage and scooter parking. 

Can I turn in my rental bike at a different location to where I rented it? 

Yes, it is possible, but it’s always best to check with individual providers whether they offer such a service and whether there is an additional charge.