tourist information centre falkirk

• Central & West Scotland

Falkirk is a large town filled with interesting, historical, and exciting destinations for local and international visitors. Since it’s located between Edinburgh and Glasgow in the Forth Valley and close to the historic county of Stirling , you can pack many of the things to do in Falkirk into a day or two without needing to travel hundreds of miles.

T here are 27 trains a day between the Falkirk and the greater Stirling region. Tickets are available online on the Cross Country Trains or The Train Line website . You can even take a steam train too!

Like in many of Scotland’s fine towns and villages, there are countless things to do in the Falkirk district, including visiting outstanding attractions, landmarks, and events. There are also plenty of brand and non-brand retail stores that sell clothing, homeware, and everything you can think of.

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14 Things to do in Falkirk

There are so many fun things to do in Falkirk, which adds to the town’s popularity. There is also a visitor centre, the Scottish Segway Centre if you are looking for more information on the history of the Falkirk district and how to navigate the town or to book day trips and tour services.

Whether you want to experience Falkirk with your children or have a dating day with your loved one, based on your preferences, there is something for everyone out and about in the Falkirk area.

Oh, and don’t forget about the entire Falkirk town centre for shopping. When you get to the High Street in Falkirk between Glasgow and Edinburgh, you will find plenty of cafés, bistros, and restaurants to enjoy that sell a wide range of incredible food.

Other than shopping in the town centre High Street or visiting one of many beautiful parks, if you are in search of something fun to do, then look no further. Apart from local attractions in the Falkirk area, there are many more activities, including E-biking, sky-high trampolining, crazy golf playing Divergent games in escape rooms, and the FTH theatre to experience some drama.

To learn more about things to do in Falkirk, or for future day trip bookings in the Falkirk district and surrounding area, you can look for information on our website or visit the town centre website. If your ideal date is to visit Falkirk in October, just remember that it is a transitional month between a cool summer and a wet winter.

While some places, like castle ruins or speckled churches, don’t require a booking, places like the Callendar house do. Be sure to check whether bookings at any places that pique your interest, such as landmarks, outdoor attractions, or events, require bookings.

The Kelpies & The Helix

The Helix Park in the Falkirk area was designed as a project to improve connections between 16 communities within the Falkirk council in Scotland.

The Helix is home to the Kelpies—two mythical creatures that look like horses with their heads above the ground and light up at night. Standing 30 metres tall in Falkirk and each weighing over 300 tonnes, these are the world’s largest equine sculptures and one of the biggest tourist attractions within the Falkirk area.

The Kelpies cover more than 350 hectares of space between Falkirk district and Grangemouth. In the Helix, you will find the Plaza Cafe and its natural surroundings, including a woodland, lagoon, and wetlands. There is also an Adventure Zone play area for children, pathways that span over miles, and incredible scenery.

Falkirk Wheel and Antonine Wall

If you are looking for something different, then you can check out the Falkirk Wheel! Its the world’s first and only rotating boat lift and opened in 2002 with a plan to reintroduce canals in Central Scotland. In recent years, the Falkirk wheel has successfully connected the two canals for the first time since the 1930s and, by doing so, has also connected Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Here, you will also find the Antonine Wall in Tamfourhill, Central Scotland. It is a rotating boat that connects two scenic canals, the Forth and Clyde Canal and the Union Canal. This was done when a 21st-century landmark structure was built and was resurrected to reconnect the canals in the early 2000s – Definitely a must-see attraction when visiting the Falkirk district.

Falkirk Stadium

If you are a Scot, then you probably have a big interest in football. And, what better way to celebrate the incredible sport than at one of the most popular attractions in all of Falkirk? You can visit the Falkirk stadium, which was built in 2004 if you are looking to spend the day watching football and other events with friends and family.

The Falkirk stadium is the home ground of a few local clubs, such as the Scottish League One club Falkirk, East Stirlingshire, and the Lowland Football League. The Falkirk stadium is among some of the biggest landmarks in the town of Falkirk.

Callendar House

Have you ever heard about Callendar House? If you live in or visit Scotland, there’s no doubt that you have to take the opportunity to explore the history, especially the Falkirk area. As one of the many things to do in Falkirk, when you visit the Callendar House, you can expect a 6-century massive castle-looking house, the type you would think to find in a fairytale book.

The Callendar House’s location is on the grounds of Callendar Park in Falkirk, a mansion that has seen wars, an industrial revolution, and many rebellions. It has accommodated historical figures, with the most popular being Mary, Queen of Scots.

Visiting the Callendar House mansion, you can expect costume interpreters who bring some of Scotland’s history to life, listen to stories, and enjoy authentic Georgian food.

Callendar Estates

If you live in a city or bustling town, then you can escape from a scenic outdoor setting to a milk farm in the countryside, which is still located close to the Falkirk district town centre.

At Callendar Estate you can enjoy many outdoor activities, such as cycling, walking, riding, or even a Segway experience. There are many Falkirk tours to discover, all that is covered in grounds that carry a part of Scotland’s rich history in the United Kingdom.

You can plan a family-friendly outing to Callendar Estate in Falkirk, where you will also find a lovely café, milk barn, and indoor play area for children.

Xtreme Karting Falkirk

Looking for a fun activity? Whether you are an adult or are looking for something adventurous for the kids (between 10 – 15 years old), Xtreme Karting is perfect for you!

This is just one place in the Falkirk district where you can experience motorsport with friends or family. It is the very first karting centre in the Falkirk area, but also all of Scotland. It has a 5-star rating and is a thrilling yet safe activity for most of the family.

Apart from the 30,000 sq ft kart track in the Falkirk area, which features a bridge/ underpass section, sweeping corners, and hairpin bends, there is a designer lounge area that has large windows for you to view the track. You can also view it from the side of the track. Both of these areas are also equipped with race timing displays that allow you to keep up with the action as it happens in real time.

Muiravonside Country Park – Falkirk Council

This country park is set on the river banks of the Avon River in the Falkirk district in the UK and is one of the top attractions in Falkirk. The site has 70 hectares filled with picturesque gardens, woodlands, and parkland, all of which once formed the Muiravonside Estate. Major features on the parks’ grounds are also connected by a path network.

Exploring the woodlands in the Falkirk district, you can expect a big variety of trees, such as tall oak, hazel, ash, birch, and yew. There are also shrubs, including bluebell, primrose, cuckoo-pint, and dog’s mercury. Apart from the greenery, you can expect to see some of Scotland’s beloved birds, like the green woodpecker, nuthatch, and flycatcher.

Many people visit the park regularly to experience wide-open spaces and scenic walks. There is also a perfectly laid-out footpath that leads to the Union Canal.

Kinneil House and Estate

The Kinneil House offers visitors an intimate knowledge of over 2000 years of Scottish history, from the Romans up until the Industrial Revolution. As the seat of power for the prominent Hamilton family, the Kinneil Estate is synonymous with power and high status.

Taking a guided tour through the property sheds light on some pivotal moments in Scottish history, including when James Watts created the first version of the steam engine in the basement of the home! While guided tours are limited, wandering the 300-year-old furnishings of the House is one of the most popular experiences in Falkirk.

If you weren’t able to book a guided tour, don’t worry! You can visit the Kinneil Museum instead. Come and learn about the great outdoors of the Bo’ness area and the Kinneil Railway.

The Pineapple

The Pineapple, also known as the Dunmore Pineapple , is a very popular place to explore in England.

The property is historic and includes a mansion and two large gardens . The wall used for the garden’s surrounding area had a purpose from the 18th century to create a microclimate against the cold in the Falkirk district for planting fruit and vegetables.

Enjoy a walk or picnic with the family, with the biggest covering 6 acres. In the building, there is also a hot house in the wall built in 1761and you can expect a magnificent historical building with unique architectural styles.

Dollar Park

Dollar Park is a beautiful parkland in an area surrounding the Falkirk district in the United Kingdom with a lot of horticultural attractions and leisure activities.

Entering the north part of the park in Falkirk, you can expect to find active recreational activities, a tennis court, an 18-hole putting area, and a playground for kids. There are also pathways, a range of mature trees, and a sculpture of Sheila McKechnie, an OBE, Scottish trade unionist, housing campaigner, and consumer activist.

Dollar Park is ideal if you want to plan an educational visit and experience monthly market stalls and civil partnership ceremonies. The parks are also used for wedding services.

Tappoch Broch & Torwood Castle

If you are adventurous and seek mysterious land in Falkirk, there is a forest, Tappoch Broch, approximately 2 miles northeast of the town. Within the forest, you will find Torwood Castle, a ruined L-shaped castle from the 16th century.

Although the risk level of entering the Falkirk castle is considered low, the castle has been neglected for a very long time. The estimated year the castle was built in Falkirk is 1566, which we all know was a rather interesting time in the history of Scotland and contains fascinating Roman history.

Explore the John Muir Way

There’s no better way to explore Falkirk and Scotland than a hiking trip from west to east on the John Muir Way. This 134-mile-long hiking path snakes from Helensburgh on the western coast of Scotland to Dunbar on the eastern coast. Falkirk sits directly in the middle of the route, which means some of you may be reading this as you pass through (Hi, there!).

The Way has a range of great views that show off the Lowlands and Highlands of Scotland, as well as various cycling trails throughout (keep an eye out for information boards along the route that direct you).

The trail is not for the faint of heart and takes multiple day trips to complete, but it is one of the most fun Falkirk attractions. If you don’t want to commit to the full 134 miles, you can always take a shorter segment like Falkirk to Linlithgow (8.5 miles) or Kilsyth to Falkirk (13.8 miles) instead.

Falkirk Old Parish Speckled Church

In the Falkirk area, there is an old church known as the Old Parish Speckled Church or Falkirk Trinity Church, which is a congregation of the church of Scotland. History suggests that the church is one of the oldest landmarks in Falkirk, dating back as far as the 7th century.

Keeping some of its original charm and steeple, the church site was redone and rebuilt in the 19th century. Today, the church is recognized as a listed building in Falkirk. As it contains much of the Falkirk district’s history, the old church right in the centre of the town is certainly worth the visit.

Zetland Park

There are many exquisite parks in the Falkirk district, yet there’s something about Zetland Park that’s different. If you enjoy visiting parks around town, then Zetland Park is a must for the whole family.

Apart from being scenic, much like a green oasis, the park also has an interesting story behind it and was gifted to the people of Grangemouth in 1880 by the Earl of Zetland. Today, it is recognized as the perfect place for escaping the busy town or city life and is ideal if you want to take a stroll or have a picnic outdoors in nature.

Other Things To Do in Central & West Scotland

• Things to do in Balmaha
• Things to do in Biggar
• Things to do in Drymen
• Things to do in Dunblane
• Things to do in Grangemouth
• Things to do in Lochearnhead
• Things to do in Loch Lomond
• Things to do in Stirling

Graham Grieve

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The Helix: Home of The Kelpies

The Helix Park is The Home of The Kelpies - the largest equine sculptures in the world. The visitor centre at the Kelpies has a gift shop, café and more information on The Kelpies themselves. You can also take a tour from there with one of our guides who will tell you about the story of The Kelpies and even take you inside for an exclusive look at their engineering and ingenuity. The Helix has an adventure play park (with accessible equipment), splash play water fountains, parklands, woodlands, wetlands and boardwalks, a lagoon with a cosy coffee shop on its shore. See our accessibility statement on our web site for any access information you may require prior to visiting.

The Helix Park is The Home of The Kelpies - the largest equine sculptures in the world. Located between Falkirk and Grangemouth, it was created as a space for the communities in the Falkirk area to come together. The Kelpies go a step further in bringing together not only from different parts of Scotland and the UK, but from all over the world. The Kelpies have transformed the area into a five-star tourist destination.

Standing at 100ft tall and weighing more than 300 tonnes each, the magical Kelpies are a man-made wonder and a feat of engineering. The works of art, created by artist Andy Scott, have become iconic on the landscape after being modelled on real-life icons of times gone by — Clydesdale horses Duke and Baron. The Kelpies represent the lineage of the heavy horse of Scottish industry and economy, pulling the wagons, ploughs, barges and coalships that shaped the geographical layout of Falkirk.

The Kelpies’ name reflects the mythological transforming beasts that possess the strength and endurance of 100 horses; a quality that’s analogous with the transformational change of the area’s landscapes, endurance of its inland waterways and the strength of its communities. You can visit The Kelpies free of charge any time of the day, 365 days of the year due to their prime location in The Helix park. The area around the massive sculptures has been designed to give access for all, meaning everyone can come and see them up close. You can even go inside a Kelpie on a tour for an exclusive look at their engineering and ingenuity. Don’t forget to round off your trip at the visitor centre where there is a gift shop, cafe and more information on The Kelpies themselves.

The Helix is linked to Falkirk's award winning path network, which join the local communities and places of interest with 500 km of pathways for walking and cycling on. Discover the Helix around Tour Route (HArTT), a 25km cycle route starting at The Helix and heading to The Falkirk Wheel, Callendar Park and back to The Helix. Details of the route are on our website. There are also two National Cycle Routes as well as the John Muir Trail making it incredibly accessible and the ideal base to explore from.

The Helix has an adventure play park (with accessible equipment), splash play water fountains, parklands, woodlands, wetlands and boardwalks, a lagoon with a cosy coffee shop on its shore.

See our accessibility statement on our web site for any access information you may require prior to visiting.

One car park near the main entrance is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and The Kelpies car park is open from 0800 - 2000 all year, with late openeing untill 2200 from April - Oct. There are seasonal charges for this car park. Blue badge parking is free and available at the visitor centre but it's limited.

FREE parking is also available at Falkirk Stadium (a short 2 minute walk across the road from Helix Park) all year round, except on match days involving Falkirk Football Club. It may be worthwhile checking Falkirk Football Club's fixtures list before visiting The Helix and The Kelpies.

The Visitor Centre at The Helix

Open 0930 - 1600, 7 days a week all year with late opening until 1700 April - Oct

The Plaza Café on the shore of the lagoon is open 1000 - 1600, 7 days a week April - October and weekends only over the winter months.

Plaza Cafe 7 days a week from 0900 with seasonal closing.

Kelpies car park 0900 - 2000, 7 days a week all year with late opening until 2200 April - October.

Transport and Parking

• On Public Transport Route
• Coach Parking
• Pets Welcome

Accessibility

• Accessible Parking Or Drop-off Point
• Level access to dining room, cafe or restaurant
• Level Access
• Ramp to main entrance
• Wheelchair access throughout
• Level access from entrance to reception
• Accessible toilets

Dietary Options

• Vegan Meals Available
• Vegetarian Meals available

Typical Prices

• Outdoor Play Area
• Baby Changing Facilities
• Public Toilet Facilities
• Lunch Available
• Licensed Bar
• Catering Available
• Picnic Area
• Cafe or Restaurant

Payment Methods

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Related items of interest

• Falkirk Community Trust
• Callendar House
• Kinneil Museum
• The Hippodrome
• Mariner Leisure Centre

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12 Top-Rated Things to Do in Falkirk

Written by Brad Lane Updated Mar 23, 2023

Falkirk, in the Central Lowlands of Scotland, is a tourist-friendly city with a laid-back appeal, beautiful scenery, and a wealth of things to do. It's home to two popular Scotland attractions : the Falkirk Wheel and The Helix: Home of the Kelpies. These two larger-than-life attractions are worth the travel alone.

But it's much more than giant Clydesdale horses and impressive engineering in Falkirk. The city has a lively and historic town center, abuzz with shops, restaurants, and plenty of people-watching opportunities. Falkirk also lends easy access to its brilliant scenery, with plenty of parklands and places to play outside.

Falkirk is often a stop on a more extensive Scotland journey . The John Muir Way and Forth & Clyde Canal towpath run through the city on their long journeys across Central Scotland. If you're traveling on either of these long-distance paths, book some time in Falkirk to recharge and take in the sights.

Enjoy your visit with our list of top attractions and things to do in Falkirk.

1. Gawk at The Kelpies at The Helix

2. appreciate the engineering of the falkirk wheel, 3. spend the day at callendar park & callendar house, 4. wander around falkirk town centre, 5. enjoy the gardens at dollar park, 6. take a day trip to the dunmore pineapple, 7. take a walk on the john muir way, 8. catch a game at falkirk stadium, 9. visit muiravonside country park, 10. ride a bicycle on the forth & clyde canal towpath, 11. dive into the history of blackness castle, 12. visit stirling, map of things to do in falkirk, falkirk - climate chart.

The Helix is a famous public park in Falkirk and home to the region's most outstanding attractions. The centerpiece of this 350-hectare park is undeniably The Kelpies — dual Clydesdale sculptures standing 100 feet tall . These magnificent works of art stand out on the horizon for miles and draw worldwide visitors.

Water surrounds the sculptures, paying homage to their aquatic mythology. Visitors can pay a fee for a guided tour that navigates inside the massive sculptures. Green space, walking trails, and The Kelpies Visitor Center are also nearby, offering plenty of places to sit and admire the scenery.

The Kelpies are free to enjoy every day of the year and typically light up at night up until an hour after dusk. The on-site visitor center has more limited hours, with services like a café, gift shop, and exhibition area.

Don't limit a visit to The Helix only to The Kelpies. This outstanding public park has tons to explore. Among the acreage are a popular adventure play park and water fountains. It's also home to many beautiful landscapes, including wetlands, woodlands, and a lagoon.

The Falkirk Wheel is a beautiful demonstration of human engineering. It's touted as the world's first rotating boat lift and is a true spectacle of modern Scottish innovation.

The wheel connects the Forth and Clyde Canal and the Union Canal with a 115-foot rotation into the sky . It's simply fun to witness this mechanism at work, and interested visitors can opt for a boat ride to experience it firsthand.

Boat rides on the Falkirk Wheel take place throughout the day. Tours last approximately 50 minutes and include two trips on the wheel, one going up and one going down. Narration along the way explains the history and science behind the wheel. Advanced tickets are recommended for this popular attraction.

A boat ride is not required to enjoy the Falkirk Wheel. Simply watching the rotation from the sidelines is also enjoyable. The area surrounding the Falkirk Wheel also has several family attractions, including mini-golf, archery, and paddleboat rentals, and the visitor center at the Falkirk Wheel offers hot food items and a café.

Callendar House is a magnificent 14th-century French chateau-style mansion . It's also the centerpiece feature of the 140-acre Callendar Park in Falkirk. This wonderful home and public park radiates its history and provides several visitor attractions.

It's free to enter the Callendar House for a self-guided sightseeing tour. Within, permanent displays cover the history of the home and the surrounding region, including insight into its Roman occupation as early as the 11th century. Other highlights of the interior include a restored 1825 kitchen.

Calendar Park is worth a visit without ever stepping into the house. It contains a large Roman-themed playground area and a spiderwebbing network of woodland trails .

Families and visitors often use this green space for picnics, dog walking, and other sunny-weather activities.

No trip to Falkirk is complete without a visit to its bustling town center. Shops, cafés, and full-service restaurants line this pedestrian part of town , inviting all sorts of window shopping and wandering around. And with restaurants catering to every meal throughout the day, it's a great place to visit for a bite to eat.

The Howgate Shopping Centre is the most concentrated shopping area in the region. This shopping mall has several local and national shops to peruse, offering everything from fashion to housewares and beauty boutiques. This indoor shopping area is open seven days a week.

Falkirk Town Centre is also a central spot for history buffs. The entire town center reflects the town's legacy dating back hundreds of years. The best way to experience this history is to follow the Falkirk Town Heritage Trail . This self-guided tour starts at the historic Falkirk Steeple, dating back to 1814, and includes 25 other points of interest.

Dollar Park is a beautifully landscaped space close to the town center. It has several family-friendly attractions, including a broad collection of flowers blooming throughout the year. Alongside the ample gardens, the park also features a playground area, open green space , and a beautiful two-story Victorian mansion .

The Victorian mansion is home to Arnotdale Cafe, which is open seven days a week. Here, enjoy lunch, tea, and other light fare before or after exploring the park. Outside the Arnotdale House is the entrance to the park's beautiful Walled Garden , home to several eye-catching elements.

The park offers several attractions only during the summer holiday (April - September). This collection includes tennis courts and an 18-hole putting green. A bouncy castle, extremely popular with young children, is also available during this summer season.

The Dunmore Pineapple is a unique 18th-century summer home built by the Earl of Dunmore. Its standout feature is an immense stone pineapple towering above the building , representing one of the most exotic fruits once found in Scotland. Today, visitors can visit and photograph the Dunmore Pineapple and tour the beautiful woodland grounds.

The Dunmore Pineapple is accessible with an approximate eight-mile drive north of Falkirk town center. Downloading directions before heading out helps in navigating the rural setting. Expect potholes and other slow-going traffic conditions when visiting.

It doesn't take much time to explore and photograph The Dunmore Pineapple. Bring some walking shoes to tour the lovely estate — and surrounding woodlands to extend the trip. Visitors can also plan an overnight trip by booking accommodations at The Pineapple through the National Trust for Scotland.

John Muir Way is one of Scotland's Great Trails and a popular route for long-distance cycling and walking. The route spans 215 kilometers (133 miles) across Central Scotland from coast to coast. The western terminus of John Muir Way is in Helensburgh, near Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. The eastern terminus is in Dunbar, the birthplace of John Muir.

The middle of John Muir Way passes right through Falkirk's town center and connects with other significant tourist attractions, including the Falkirk Wheel and Callendar House. Visitors to Falkirk often enjoy this section of the John Muir Way as a pleasant day hike or bicycle ride. Falkirk is also a popular place to spend a night or two for those traveling the entire route.

John Muir Way also offers excellent avenues for exploring away from town. The section heading east from Falkirk extends 13.6 kilometers (8.5 miles) to Linlithgow and passes by attractions like Muiravonside Country Park and the Avon Aquaduct . Alternatively, the route spans 20.8 kilometers (13 miles) west to Kilsyth. Colzium Estate and Rough Castle offer places to pull over along this section.

Falkirk Stadium is home to the Falkirk Football Club , founded in 1876. The club competes with the Scottish Professional Football League in Scottish League One. The regular season spans from October through April . If visiting during this time, consider buying some tickets and participating in the undeniably fun and electric atmosphere.

Falkirk Stadium is also home to several other community events. This lineup includes disco nights, Christmas parties, and afternoon teas. Stadium tours are also available throughout the football season.

Muiravonside is Falkirk's only country park and offers a fantastic place to spend the day outside. It's located approximately seven miles southeast of town and encompasses over 170 acres of woodlands and open green space.

Among its many attractions are a working demonstration farm , a play park, and a winding network of nature trails .

Newparks Farm , located within Muiravonside, has several resident animals to meet. These farm animals include highland cattle, horses, donkeys, and several species of pigs. Visitors have the chance to meet these farm animals and tour their living quarters in restored farmstead buildings.

Walking and cycling are also popular within the park. The River Avon Heritage Trail tours the entire parkland, offering several side trips for exploring the countryside. John Muir Way also travels next to the park, connecting to the town center with a moderate bike ride.

Falkirk is home to several walking and bicycling trails that quickly occupy an entire day. Not only do these pedestrian routes provide an enjoyable form of exercise, but they also offer direct connections to the city's best attractions.

One of the top routes to follow is the Forth & Clyde Canal towpath, which connects the Falkirk Wheel and The Kelpies .

The Forth & Clyde Canal towpath is bicycle and pedestrian-friendly. The section in Falkirk is only a small segment of the larger 106-kilometer (65-mile) towpath, which also includes the Union Canal towpath. This larger route spans Edinburgh and Glasgow and is a viable long-distance route for bicyclists looking to travel between Scotland's two largest cities.

Blackness Castle offers an easy and exciting day trip from Falkirk, accessible with a 14-mile drive from town .

The castle has a rich history. It was first built as a royal residence for the powerful Crichtons family in the 15th century. Its royal residency didn't last long, as the castle soon became home to a garrison fortress, a prison, and an armory.

Visitors experience this history immediately upon viewing the castle next to the sea, sometimes referred to as the " Ship that never Sailed " due to its boat-like appearance.

With paid admission, tourists tour the grounds and the castle, where several information plaques delve deeper into its centuries-long legacy.

Stirling is a beautiful city in central Scotland, accessible with a short drive or train ride from Falkirk. The city has several attractions, including one of Scotland's largest castles, Stirling Castle . This impressive historical monument dates as far back as the 14th century and is worth visiting Stirling on its own.

Other things to do in Stirling include visiting the National Wallace Monument , touring the Stirling Old Town Jail , and wandering the bustling town center. The city is also home to historic churches and several historical monuments, including Stirling Old Bridge , home to the Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297.

Getting to Stirling from Falkirk is easy. It's approximately a 12-mile drive that takes less than 30 minutes. Alternatively, ScotRail offers a direct journey for those looking for easy travel along the tracks. This proximity makes for easy day trips without booking a place to stay the night.

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The world's one and only rotating boat lift. A marvel of engineering and Scottish Canals' flagship destination, The Falkirk Wheel. Connecting the Forth & Clyde Canal with the Union Canal in a half-turn that takes only five minutes!

Book a boat trip

Enjoy the full experience of the recently upgraded Falkirk Wheel by sailing through the sky on our 60-minute boat trip! Click to find out more!

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Take a look at all the things you can do at The Falkirk Wheel

Further information

Opening hours.

The Falkirk Wheel turns periodically throughout the day during the summer.

* 60 years+, students and Blue Light card holders. Tickets are required for every passenger boarding a boat trip.

About The Falkirk Wheel

The world’s only rotating boat lift, The Falkirk Wheel links the Forth & Clyde Canal to the Union Canal 35 metres above, allowing vessels to sail through the sky thanks to a unique fusion of art and engineering – and the same power it would take to boil eight kettles.

Transforming the contaminated site of a former tar works, The Falkirk Wheel opened in 2002 and replaced a flight of 11 locks that once stepped the Union Canal down to the level of the Forth & Clyde, more than 100 feet below. Whereas weary travellers once had a day’s heavy work opening and closing 44 lock gates to complete the journey between the two canals, The Falkirk Wheel allows vessels to transit between the two waterways in just a few minutes.

Now one of Scotland’s busiest tourist attractions, The Falkirk Wheel attracts around 500,000 visitors each year. The Wheel has transformed Falkirk into a key tourism destination, with visitors traveling from all over the world to marvel at the working sculpture which combines modern engineering and technology with ancient principles set out by Archimedes more than 2000 years ago.

When one of the structure’s gondolas is lowered, the opposite one rises, keeping the vast, 1800 tonne boat lift in perfect balance as it carries canal barges 35 metres into the air in a matter of minutes. Incredibly, the structure uses just 1.5kWh for each rotation.

Motorhomes at The Falkirk Wheel

Plan your overnight stay at the world's only rotating boat lift and experience the spectacle of The Wheel's light show at night.

Staying with us

Host an event

We have three commercial spaces available to hire for meetings and events. You could even hire the entire Visitor Centre!

Click here to learn more

Sustainability spotlight

Solar Power

In May 2023 our solar panels provided us with 9% of the energy we used - a whopping 3,743 kWh!

Green Tourism

We're proud to have been awarded the Gold standard in Green Tourism.

Sustainability

We're working hard to bring the choice of as many eco-friendly, sustainable and locally-sourced products to our gift shop as we can.

Useful information

Frequently asked questions about visiting The Falkirk Wheel.

Accessibility

Level access.

• There is level access the full the way around our main site and inside the Visitor Centre from our drop-off area, which also has a limited number of blue badge parking spaces.
• We have one disabled toilet facility inside the Visitor Centre, located next to the gift shop desk. Please ask one of our staff if you have difficulty finding anything.

The Falkirk Wheel site is fully accessible for visitors with mobility problems and is wheelchair friendly. We have limited Blue Badge parking spaces directly outside the Visitor Centre.

Facilities on-site can be used with ease, and a wheelchair or mobility scooter can also be taken onboard the boat trip (please mention this when booking so we can reduce capacity slightly on-board to allow for a chair).

Boat trip tickets for disabled customers are £14.50, however if accompanied by a carer then the carer goes free. We have concession rates for our young at heart visitors, so boat trip tickets for over 60s are £12.80.

Do I need to pre-book a boat trip?

While we regularly have ticket availability on the day, we strongly recommend booking any tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. We welcome a lot of touring coach parties who regularly fill up our boat trips - our boats only have limited capacity, and we've only got the one Wheel!

Dogs are allowed on-site and in our Visitor Centre, but should be kept on leads at all times. Dogs are allowed to sit at the high tables, but for hygiene reasons only assistance dogs are permitted in the café. We have water bowls for dogs at various points around the site.

Well behaved pooches are permitted onboard our boat trips, however the experience can be quite overwhelming for those of a nervous disposition, so we advise only confident (and continent) doggies board.

What times are the boat trips?

During the summer we usually operate a 10-boat schedule daily, with departures at*:

You can view available slots on our departures schedule by clicking here .

* Due to operational demands it may be necessary for us to reduce our boat schedule at short notice.

Missing booking confirmations

If you have booked one of our boat trips but are missing your email confirmation please check your spam/junk folders. If you still can't find your confirmation please email the team at [email protected] .

How long does the boat trip take?

Our boat trips take approximately 1 hour, depending on traffic on the waterways.

Food, drink and gift shop

Our cafe and gift shop are always open during opening hours.

We also have a number of food outlets that are open during the summer months* that serve everything from ice cream and pizzas to chilli chips and hot dogs, as well as our famous mac 'n' cheese, toasties and seasonal food offerings.

* Subject to availability.

The Falkirk Wheel has a visitor centre that provides information about the history, operation, and significance of the wheel. 

The Falkirk Wheel offers three spaces for venue hire – Blueprint Room , Wheel Room , Visitor Centre .

How do I book a free carer's ticket?

There is an option to select a carer's ticket when booking here . Please bring proof of your carer status to present on arrival.

Can I book by phone?

We're unable to accept any bookings by telephone. You can book activities and boat trips online by clicking here , or by purchasing on the day (subject to availability).

Can I cancel or amend my boat trip booking?

We are unable to accept any cancellations or amendments to pre-booked boat trips 48 hours before the scheduled time of departure. Our team will endeavour to make amendments to bookings outwith the 48-hour period, however we cannot guarantee any requested changes. Cancellations before 48-hours will be refunded in full.

To make an amendment or cancel your boat trip please email [email protected] with your booking details.

Booking with an ASVA pass

We always look to welcome our ASVA partners whenever we can. If you're in possession of an ASVA pass please email [email protected] to reserve a booking. Valid ASVA passes must be presented upon arrival, 

Do you sell gift vouchers?

Gift vouchers can only currently be purchased in-person from our Visitor Centre and can be redeemed for boat trips only.

How do I book a group on a boat trip?

Groups of more than 15 are entitled to a discounted group rate. Please email [email protected] to enquire.

What happens if I miss my boat trip?

We always recommend being in the Visitor Centre at least 10 minutes before your scheduled time of departure. If for any reason you are late for your booking our team may look to rebook you on a later sailing, however if there is no availability we are unable to refund any missed bookings.

Is motorhome parking availabile?

Yes! We love having our motorhoming friends over to stay. Overnight parking is subject to availability and is £15 per vehicle, per night. We have an elsan point as well as toilets, showers and washing and drying facilities.

Access to these additional facilities can be secured with a refundable £20 cash deposit.

Please check in at the Visitor Centre during opening times upon arrival if you're wishing to stay at The Falkirk Wheel.

0300 373 0868

The Falkirk Wheel Lime Road Falkirk FK1 4RS

[email protected]

Complete Guide to visiting The Kelpies in Scotland

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: November 28, 2022

Thinking of visiting the Kelpies? Find out about these magnificent sculptures of 2 horse heads located in Falkirk Scotland + practical information to plan your visit.

If you are planning a trip to Scotland a visit to see the world’s largest equine sculptures – the Kelpies in Falkirk – is a popular attraction to add to your Scottish itinerary. They are an easy destination to reach from either Edinburgh or Glasgow which makes them the ideal day trip location from either city.

In this article we have included everything you need to know to plan your visit to The Kelpies including answers to frequently asked questions.

• What are Kelpies?

Who created The Kelpies sculptures?

How tall are they, do the kelpies have names.

• Where are The Kelpies located?

How to get to The Kelpies

Do you have to book to see the kelpies, how much does it cost to visit the kelpies, can i join a guided tour of the kelpies, is there a visitor centre at helix park, can you see the kelpies from the road, what time do the lights go on at the kelpies, what accommodation options are there near the kelpies, enjoy your visit to the kelpies (+ more to see and do in scotland).

What are The Kelpies?

What are kelpies .

Scottish legend has it that the Kelpies are shape-shifting water spirits who inhabit the lochs and waterways of Scotland. While they can appear in human form they are said to most often appear as horses.

The Kelpies are also a tribute to the working horses of Central Scotland . These hardworking horses ones worked transporting goods along the Scottish canals and waterways.

The scuptures of these mythical water horses were created by artist Andy Scott who was born and grew up in Falkirk. Completed in October 2013 The Kelpies have become a popular attraction in Scotland.

They stand at over 30 metres tall and weigh more than 600 tonnes.

They are constructed from stainless steel clad with weathering steel.

Incredibly each of these huge horses were created from more than 2 miles of individual metal plates that were cut and shaped by hand at workshops in Falkirk.

Yes! The sculptures were named modelled on (and named after) two working Clydesdale horses named Duke and Barron.

Where are The Kelpies located ?

The Kelpies are located off the M9 in Falkirk – 19 miles from Edinburgh and 35 miles from Glasgow.

The Kelpies are found in Helix Park . This is a land transformation project aimed at improving connections between and around 16 communities in Falkirk.

Also in the area is the Falkirk Wheel which is a rotating boat lift which opened in 2002. It connects the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal.

Located about half way between Edinburgh and Glasgow there are excellent transport links and options via rail or road to get to The Kelpies.

By train from Edinburgh or Glasgow

• Edinburgh Waverley to Falkirk High Station – approximately 25 minutes.
• Glasgow Queen Street to Falkirk High Station – approximately 20 minutes.

Once alighting at Falkirk High train station you have a number of options.

• Bus – Take the number 2 bus for Bo’ness at Slammanan Road. Jump off on Falkirk Road opposite Falkirk Stadium. iIt is then a 20 minute walk to The Kelpies.

2. Call an Uber or taxi.

• From Edinburgh take the M9 towards Stirling and exit at Junction 5 signposted Falkirk.
• From Glasgow take the M80 towards Stirling and exit at Junction 5 on M876. You will see signs for Falkirk.
• Parking – The Kelpies car park is located near the Visitor Centre. Charges apply but be aware that it does get very busy especially during holidays and warmer days.

By tour from Edinburgh of Glasgow

There are a number of tours available from Edinburgh and Glasgow to the Kelpies. Most tours also incorporate other popular destinations.

• Loch Lomond, Kelpies & Stirling Castle Tour
• Stirling, Kelpies, Loch Lomond & Whisky Tour
• Kelpies and Falkirk Wheel Private Tour

FAQ’s about visiting The Kelpies

No they are located in a freely accessible area and can be visited at any time day or night.

The Kelpies are free to visit though there is a small charge if you wish to take the tour.

Yes, there is a 25 minute guided walking tour available which includes the opportunity to stand inside the sculptures. The Kelpies tour start at the Visitor Centre with bookable times at 11:00, 11:30, 13:30 and 14:30.

There is a small charge for the tour.

Yes the Visitor Centre is located in Helix Park near the Kelpies and is open 7 days a week from 9.30 am to 5.00 pm.

There is a gift shop and restaurant on-site so you can pick up souvenirs or have a cuppa. Tours are also booked at the visitor centre.

There is also the Plaza Cafe which is located at the Helix Lagoon. It is open from April to October. An adventure play park near the Plaza Café is a great place for kids to have a run around.

Yes you can see The Kelpies when driving along the M9 motorway.

The Kelpies are a magnificent sight at night. Lights go on as soon as it gets dark (which is from 4pm in the winter months)

The Kelpies look even more spectacular lit up at night so why not book accommodation nearby so you can relax and enjoy your visit? You will find lots of ideas in my Scotland Accommodation Guide .

We have lots more resources included in our Scotland Travel Guide to help you plan your trip:

• 19 beautiful places to visit in Scotland
• Guide to Scottish castles
• Scotland road trip itinerary
• Edinburgh Travel Guide
• Tips for first time visitors to Edinburgh
• Where to stay in Edinburgh
• Itinerary ideas and things to do in Edinburgh
• Best day trips by train from Edinburgh
• Glasgow Travel Guide
• Scottish Highlands Travel Guide
• Fort William Travel Guide
• Inverness Travel Guide
• Complete guide to Scotland’s islands
• Isle of Skye Travel Guide
• Things to do and see on the Orkneys

The Kelpies Visitor Guide

The Kelpies are two massive, steel horse-head sculptures located in The Helix, a parkland project connecting 16 communities in the Falkirk Council Area of Stirlingshire . Towering 30 meters high, these statues are the largest equine sculptures in the world and are a truly iconic landmark.

The sculptures are based on Clydesdale horses that were used extensively for heavy farming and industrial work in the 18th and 19th centuries, but they also represent water kelpies which are prevalent in Scottish mythology.

The Kelpies are two monumental horse-head sculptures in Helix Park, located between Falkirk and Grangemouth, that signify Scotland’s industrial heritage. These steel marvels symbolize the transformational and enduring qualities of the waterways and horse-drawn barges that were pivotal in early industrial Scotland. They’ve become iconic landmarks since opening in 2013, attracting visitors worldwide.

If you’ve ever driven along the M9 motorway you can’t have failed to see the two enormous metallic horse heads rising up from the side of the road close to where the motorway crosses the River Carron. These equine marvels are Scotland’s celebration of a bygone era of horse-drawn barges that served the nation’s industrial plants for well over one hundred years.

Although Clydesdale’s (the breed of horse) are no longer a sight on the canals, you can at least enjoy the spectacle of the world’s largest horse sculptures when you visit them at Helix Park. It’s not quite accurate to say these sculptures are of Clydesdale horses though, rather that they were inspired by Scotland’s earliest form of heavy transport.

What the sculptures are actually showing are kelpies – mythical Scottish water horses that had the strength and endurance of ten normal horses. I guess that’s a good analogy for the strength of Scotland’s heavy industry back when the giant horses used to pull their massive loads along those canals.

The only way to truly appreciate the size of the sculptures is to stand under them. They tower a full 30 metres overhead and are covered in steel plates that are formed from irregular rectangular shapes. At night, floodlights play across the surface of the two horses and they almost appear to move if you catch them at the right angle.

The two sculptures stand in a custom-built extension of the Forth and Clyde Canal near Falkirk, and the 300-tonne artworks have become a major tourist attraction since opening in 2013.

Both heads can be walked around in just a few minutes but there are so many photo opportunities you’re guaranteed to spend at least 30 minutes at the site. You can wander around them on your own or you can book a guided tour, with the tour allowing you to go inside the heads to marvel at the complexity of the steel frame before heading over to the visitor centre for lunch in the café.

Although The Kelpies aren’t going to keep you busy all day – more like an hour at the most – they can be combined with a visit to the nearby Helix Park to easily last a full afternoon. Perhaps more importantly, because Stirling is only a half-hour drive away you can easily include this attraction with a visit to the city.

The Highlights

1: The Kelpies are the world’s largest equine sculptures, representing the heavy horses that once powered the country’s industry and economy. Designed by artist Andy Scott, the steel sculptures are an architectural marvel and a must-visit for photographers.

2: The Kelpies are an impressive sight during daylight, but they transform into a magical spectacle at night when they’re illuminated. The light show reveals another facet of the sculptures, creating a dramatic effect that’s unlike anything else in Scotland.

3: The attraction is completely free to visit unless you want to take part in the tour. There are a couple of on-site shops if you want mementoes and snacks, as well as a picnic area, a kid’s play area, and canal-side walking trails.

Visiting Tips

1: You can take a guided tour around the kelpies which includes a description of the mythology behind the artworks followed by a look inside the structures.

2: Take a walk through Helix Park after you’ve visited The Kelpies. The park is enormous and is a great place to let the kids run around and burn off energy. Highlights of Helix park are its playpark and boating lake.

3: If you want to see another attraction that celebrates Scotland’s canals check out the nearby Falkirk Wheel . This is the world’s only rotating boat lift and serves as a connector between the Forth and Clyde Canal and the Union Canal.

Tourist Information

During a visit to the Kelpies you’re free to walk around the site at your own pace, but if you want a deeper understanding of the sculptures there’s a 30-minute guided tour that explains their history, how they were manufactured, and the significance that horses had to the industrial development of Scotland.

The canals around the site are perfect for walks thanks to several canalside footpaths, and the nearby Helix Park is home to a network of paths that are suitable for all ages and abilities.

The Helix is an area of Falkirk that links 16 communities by a network of canals and includes a large area of urban parkland that features a lagoon and several children’s play areas. The entire park covers an impressive 860 acres and contains over 17 miles of cycleways and footpaths, so if you’re stuck for something to do I’d say a visit there is highly recommended, especially if you take a bike.

Completed in 2013, The Kelpies celebrate the lineage of the heavy horses that towed barges up and down Scottish canals for most of the 19th century.

In ancient Scottish mythology, kelpies are sea horses that have the strength and stamina of ten normal horses, and it’s this quality that prompted artist Andy Scott to recreate them in steel to represent the power and endurance of Scotland’s waterways and heavy industry.

Before the creation of the main sculptures at Helix Park the artist created two miniature three-metre-high versions in his studio so that any design flaws could be spotted before work started on the ‘real’ artworks. You can see two of these mini sculptures at The Kelpie’s sister site The Falkirk Wheel .

Things to Do

Helix Park : Explore the 350-hectare parkland of Helix Park. The park is one of the most popular outdoor spaces in the Falkirk area, especially for walkers and cyclists who can enjoy over 16 miles of pathways before taking a welcome break in the plaza cafe near the Helix Park pond.

Kelpies Sculpture Visit : Marvel at the towering Kelpies, the world’s largest equine sculptures. Standing 30 meters high, these stunning structures represent the lineage of the heavy horses that used to transport goods along Scotland’s network of canals. For a small fee, you can also join a guided tour to learn about the fascinating story behind these sculptures.

Boat Trips on the Forth and Clyde Canal : Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Forth and Clyde Canal that passes by the Kelpies. This unique waterway offers you the opportunity to see the Kelpies from a different perspective and enjoy the peace and quiet of the surrounding landscape.

Play at the Adventure Zone : If you’re travelling with children, visit the Adventure Zone playground within Helix Park. This well-equipped playground offers a variety of fun and interactive rope swings and climbing frames that will keep the wee ones entertained for hours on end.

Picnic at the Lagoon : Pack a picnic and enjoy an alfresco meal by the lagoon in the park. Surrounded by lawns and woodland, this is the perfect spot to relax while the kids play. Don’t forget to stay until dusk to catch the Kelpies illuminated in a dazzling array of colours.

Things to Do Nearby

The Falkirk Wheel . Lime Rd, Falkirk FK1 4RS. 13-minute drive. An innovative rotating boat lift that connects the Forth and Clyde canals. Visitors can ride the lift and learn how it was made in the visitor centre. The nearby Scottish Segway Centre offers off-road tours to a Roman fortress.

Helix Park . The Helix, Falkirk, Grangemouth FK2 7ZT. 1-minute walk. Helix Park is a large recreation area outside Falkirk that features a network of cycleways, canal-side walkways, a large pond with water sports activities and a café.

Callendar House . Callendar Rd, Falkirk FK1 1YR. 11-minute drive. 14th-century Scottish baronial country house complete with a working Georgian kitchen, a children’s play park, a picnic area, permanent exhibitions and a tearoom. The grounds include part of the Antonine Wall.

Falkirk . 8-minute drive. Falkirk is a large town in central Scotland that offers a wide variety of shops, pubs and restaurants in a traditional high street. There are a number of historic landmarks in the town centre including the Falkirk Steeple and the Tattie Kirk as well as two modern shopping centres – Howgate and Callendar.

Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre . Glasgow Road, Whins Of Milton, Stirling FK7 0LJ. 16-minute drive. Visitor centre with interactive exhibits that depict the famous battle of 1314. Learn about Robert the Bruce before seeing the actual battlefield. Café and gift shop on site.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the sculptor of the kelpies.

The sculptor of The Kelpies artworks in Helix Park near Falkirk was artist Andy Scott. The Glaswegian artist spent 8 years on the project.

What are the names of the two kelpies?

The Kelpies artworks near the Forth and Clyde Canal are based on two real-life Clydesdale horses called Duke and Baron.

How much did The Kelpies cost?

The Kelpies were commissioned as part of the project that regenerated Helix Park in Central Scotland. The entire project cost £43 million, which includes a £25 million grant from the Big Lottery Fund.

How long did it take to build The Kelpies?

Construction of The Kelpies took 90 days, but the entire duration of the project from conception to opening took 3,285 days. The build began in late 2013.

Where are The Kelpies?

From Edinburgh  – take the M9 towards Stirling, exit at Junction 5 for Falkirk/Grangemouth and then follow the brown tourism signs to ‘Helix Park and Kelpies’ From Glasgow  – take the M80 towards Stirling, exit at Junction 8 for M876 and join M9, exit at Junction 6 for Falkirk/Grangemouth and then follow the brown tourism signs to ‘Helix Park and Kelpies’.

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Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

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Find Yourself in Falkirk

The Falkirk area is bursting with things to do all year round. Less than 20 minutes’ drive from Stirling and with excellent rail and bus links, make sure you add the Falkirk area on to your to do list.

Two of Scotland’s largest attractions can be found in Falkirk, the world’s largest equine sculptures The Kelpies and the world’s only rotating boat lift, The Falkirk Wheel . The Kelpies, striking 30m horsehead sculptures form the centrepiece of the Helix Park which boasts adventure Play Park, splash play fountains, Lagoon, cycle paths and visitor centre. The Falkirk Wheel lifts boats 115ft to link the Forth & Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. Visitors can take a boat trip and enjoy a variety of activities including Water Play Park, visitor centre, canoeing, Segway safari trips and of course walks or bike rides along the canal.

Explore Falkirk’s History

The Falkirk area is also steeped in history and includes some of the best sections of World Heritage UNESCO site the Antonine Wall, the baronial Callendar house with authentic working Georgian Kitchen, Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway with the Museum of Scottish Railways , the FAW Kirk Graveyard with memorials from the time of William Wallace and the Battle of Falkirk. PLUS the area has the newly renovated Steeple, Dunmore Pineapple, Blackness Castle and Kinneil House and Museum.

Family Friendly

For families with kids why not visit the Milk Barn, an artisan ice cream parlour or Wellsfield Farm Activity Centre a children’s farm adventure park. If its indoor activities, why not try Xtreme Karting, Sky High Trampolining, Wonderworld soft play, the new Jungle Room, Mariner Leisure Centre and cinemas, Cineworld in Falkirk and Bo’ness Hippodrome, Scotland’s oldest purpose built cinema.

The area also boasts some of the country’s best nature trails including a large section of the John Muir Way great for walkers and cyclists alike.

Cycling on the John Muir Way from Falkirk to Linlithgow, Photo by Scotland the Big Picture

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Find Your Tour

Falkirk wheel.

The Falkirk Wheel boat lift is an exceptional feat of modern engineering that connects the Forth & Clyde and Union Canals. This unique and elegant mechanical marvel lifts boats by a height of 35 metres to bridge the gap that was originally linked by a flight of 11 locks. At the end of the 20th century, it was decided to reconnect the 2 canals with the innovative wheel as an inspiring symbol for the new Millennium.

Visitors can get the full 'The Falkirk Wheel Experience' by taking one of the special "trip" boats at the site, however, the visitor centre gives a perfect viewpoint from which to watch the Wheel in action.

If you want to go on the Falkirk Wheel, there are 2 boat trip options which you can book online . The "Original Tour" is a boat trip that lasts about 60 minutes, and we think it’s a bit expensive for the experience of sitting in a boat for that length of time, to go up 35 m, travel back and forth for 20 mins, and then go back and down again. The other boat trip option is called the "Revolution Tour" and it last 35 minutes for what is basically a boat ride onto the wheel and then a 360 rotation. 

At time of writing, the "Original Tour" 50-minute Boat Trips are operating. The  "Revolution Tour" boat trip is only available for large group bookings.

Boat Trips should be booked via the website . Of course, you can just go to the Visitor Centre for free and watch the wheel in motion from canal side, so you don’t need spend money on the boat trip to see the Falkirk Wheel in action.

An impressive piece of engineering, but it is not the most exciting thing you'll see in Scotland and we wouldn't suggest that you make a big detour to visit it.

The Visitor Centre has a nice gift shop with good quality souvenirs. 

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Home » Things To Do » Family Activities » The Falkirk Wheel

The Falkirk Wheel

The falkirk wheel and visitor centre.

The Falkirk Wheel is a rotating boat lift, which connects the Forth and Clyde Canals with the Union Canal. It’s a great day out for all the family, just an hour’s drive from us here at Loch Lomond Waterfront . You can see the wheel for yourself and even take a spin on the boat lift. There’s also a visitor centre with an exhibition, gift shop and café. Plus a range of fun outdoor activities.

Boat trips and activities

One of the highlights on a visit to the Falkirk Wheel is a ride on the famous rotating boat lift. Book your boat trip in advance and enjoy this unique experience. You can also see the lift in action from the visitor centre viewing area.

Other activities available include peddle boats, bumper boats, segways, archery, paddle boarding, waterzorbing, bike hire and mini golf. Along with a kids activity zone and splash zone.

There’s a gift shop and food stalls selling a variety of refreshments too.

Learn about the history of the Falkirk Wheel

Be sure to look out for the information on the history of the Falkirk Wheel. This amazing feat of engineering, which connects the Forth and Clyde Canals with the Union Canal, has an interesting story. The canals were once linked by a series of eleven locks, which boats would spend hours travelling through. But by 1933, the locks were dismantled, the route closed and eventually the canals fell into disuse. The Falkirk Wheel, built as part of the Millennium Link project and opened in 2002, re-connecting the canals and allowing boats to pass between them once more. There’s lots of information and some interactive displays at the visitor centre, so you can learn all about the Falkirk Wheel and how it was built.

Visitor information

Find visitor information, opening times and details on boat trips and activities on the Scottish Canals website . We’d also recommend a visit to The Kelpies while you’re in the area. And check out our  Local Guide  for more ideas of exciting things to do during your stay with us at Loch Lomond Waterfront.

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• Plan your visit

Midway between Edinburgh and Glasgow, the Falkirk area is in the heart of Scotland with excellent motorway and rail links and two international airports nearby.

There is an excellent choice of accommodation, from large hotels with spa facilities, national hotel chains, cosy cottages, Bed & Breakfasts and even canal barges.

For a day trip, weekend away or longer stay, the Falkirk area is steeped in history with a wealth of attractions, including 2 of the world's most unique, including:

• The Falkirk Wheel  (the world's only rotating boat lift)
• The Kelpies  in  The Helix Park  (the world's largest equine sculptures)

Plus the Falkirk area has a significant section of the  John Muir Way . This walk links Dunbar to the waters of the Clyde in Helensburgh.

Just a short drive from our many attractions  Falkirk town centre boasts first class shopping facilities with its shopping centre, The Howgate ,a traditional and pedestrianised high street and a fine selection of local independent stores, boutiques and gift shops. The town centre also has many historic sites and has two heritage trails which you can follow by way of a series of blue plaques. See a list of independent shops, restaurants and food and drink businesses here .

Throughout the area, an excellent selection of quality bars and restaurants provide the ideal setting to relax and unwind. Discover our food and drink offering. 

There is also an information point located within the Howgate Shopping Centre in Falkirk Town Centre, a very useful Tourist map and local area leaflets can be found in the Helix Visitor Centre , The Falkirk Wheel  and the Bo'ness & Kinneil Railway .   

If you are planning a visit to the Falkirk area and you have a member of you party with accessibility issues the Falkirk area does now have two Changing Places certified toilets situated in the   Mariner Centre , the Helix/Kelpies and Grangemouth Sports complex, FK3 8JB. For more information about Changing places facilities please click here .  

Falkirk is right in the heart of Scotland with excellent transport links. Find out how to get here.

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