Name
Falkirk
Description
Nearby attractions
The KelpiesThe Falkirk WheelLinlithgow PalaceBlackness CastleThe Battle of Bannockburn Visitor CentreBeecraigs Country ParkCallendar HouseCallendar ParkZetland ParkMuiravonside Country ParkNearby restaurants
Toby Carvery Bathgate FarmThe Cotton HouseDeer Park BeefeaterSea-SaltBehind The WallSanam TandooriPirnhall Inn Brewers FayreSaltireFour MarysThe Carron Works - JD WetherspoonNearby localities
City of EdinburghNewcastle upon TyneGatesheadAberdeen CitySunderlandNorth TynesideAlnwickSouth TynesideCarlisleWashingtonRelated posts
Keywords
Falkirk tourism.Falkirk hotels.Falkirk bed and breakfast. flights to Falkirk.Falkirk attractions.Falkirk restaurants.Falkirk travel.Falkirk travel guide.Falkirk travel blog.Falkirk pictures.Falkirk photos.Falkirk travel tips.Falkirk maps.Falkirk things to do.Falkirk things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
Basic Info
Falkirk
Falkirk, Scotland, United Kingdom
Ratings & Description
Info
attractions: The Kelpies, The Falkirk Wheel, Linlithgow Palace, Blackness Castle, The Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre, Beecraigs Country Park, Callendar House, Callendar Park, Zetland Park, Muiravonside Country Park, restaurants: Toby Carvery Bathgate Farm, The Cotton House, Deer Park Beefeater, Sea-Salt, Behind The Wall, Sanam Tandoori, Pirnhall Inn Brewers Fayre, Saltire, Four Marys, The Carron Works - JD Wetherspoon
Ready to plan your trip to Falkirk?Plan your stay
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Reviews
Things to Do in Falkirk, Scotland, United Kingdom - Falkirk Attractions & Activities
Attractions of Falkirk
The Kelpies
The Falkirk Wheel
Linlithgow Palace
Blackness Castle
The Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre
Beecraigs Country Park
Callendar House
Callendar Park
Zetland Park
Muiravonside Country Park
The Kelpies
4.7
(13.4K)
Open 24 hours
Click for details
The Falkirk Wheel
4.6
(7.7K)
Open until 5:30 PM
Click for details
Linlithgow Palace
4.7
(2.4K)
Closed
Click for details
Blackness Castle
4.7
(2K)
Open until 5:00 PM
Click for details
Things to do nearby
Private Mary Queen of Scots Tour with free self guided MQS Edinburgh Tour
Fri, Oct 31 • 9:00 AM
Linlithgow, EH49
View details
Explore historic Stirling and beyond by E bike
Fri, Oct 31 • 2:30 PM
Stirling, FK7 7NU, United Kingdom
View details
Vue Stirling Tickets
Sat, Jul 1 • 1:00 AM
Secret Location Stirling, 000000
View details
Restaurants of Falkirk
Toby Carvery Bathgate Farm
The Cotton House
Deer Park Beefeater
Sea-Salt
Behind The Wall
Sanam Tandoori
Pirnhall Inn Brewers Fayre
Saltire
Four Marys
The Carron Works - JD Wetherspoon
Toby Carvery Bathgate Farm
4.1
(1.4K)
$
Open until 10:30 PM
Click for details
The Cotton House
4.7
(913)
$$
Open until 10:30 PM
Click for details
Deer Park Beefeater
4.0
(941)
$$
Open until 11:00 PM
Click for details
Sea-Salt
4.3
(841)
$$
Open until 12:00 AM
Click for details
The Kelpies
The Kelpies
4.7
craig_mcstaycraig_mcstay
10 unique places to visit in Scotland Part 3 🏴😍 (save for later)
1. @this_is_eastside 🛖
2. Balmoral Pyramid 😍
3. @sovis_coffee ☕️
4. Outlandia🌲
5. Eas Mor Library 📚
6. Fairy Pools 🧚🏻♀️
7. St. Fillan’s Cave 💫
8. Corpach Shipwreck ⚓️
9. @helixfalkirk ✨
10. Glencoe Chairlift ☁️
📽️: @ontheroadagaintravels
📍: Scotland
_____________________________
Don’t forget to follow @simply.scotland
Share your adventures at: #simplyscotland
Follow our adventures at
@LaTravelGirl + @Craig_McStay _____________________________
#scotlandtrip #scotlandtravel #scotlandisnow #historicscotland #discoverscotland #explore_scotland_ #scotlandphotography #scotland_lover #scottishscenery #lovescotland #ilovescotland #icu_scotland #thisisscotland #scotlandlover #explorescotland #hiddenscotland #scotlandsbeauty #instascotland #north #unitedkingdom #travel #photography #highlands #edinburgh #scotlandpics #scotland
highlands2hammockshighlands2hammocks
Have YOU heard of this motorhome stopover? 🚐🏴
We just popped by the Kelpies again on our way back to Glasgow and we cannot believe what they have done with it 🤯
Now there is a huge car park overlooking the kelpies themselves, where campervans and motorhomes can spend the night for just £12.50! AND that even gives you a coffee voucher in the onsite cafe ☕️😆
This is just the perfect spot to stop off at if you are heading north as it is not far from the A9 👍🏼
Have you stopped off here recently?!
#scotlandexplore #scotlandvanlife #scotlandshots #scotlandhighlands #kelpies
latinxtravelclublatinxtravelclub
@liuvendatway I enjoy every bit of this beautiful place, #kelpies 📍🏴
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#viral #videosviral #reel #tiktok #tiktokdance
Adv.Mandiram Sreenath - Kerala, India.Adv.Mandiram Sreenath - Kerala, India.
"I visited The Kelpies in Falkirk, Scotland, and it was an unforgettable experience! These magnificent horse-head sculptures are truly awe-inspiring, and the surrounding landscape is breathtaking.
As I approached The Kelpies, I was struck by their sheer size and scale. The sculptures stand over 30 meters tall, and their intricate details and textures are mesmerizing. The way the light reflects off the steel surfaces is simply stunning.
What really made my visit special, though, was the guided tour. Our guide was knowledgeable and passionate about The Kelpies, and shared fascinating insights into their history, design, and construction. We learned about the mythology of the Kelpies, the Scottish water horses that inspired the sculptures, and the innovative engineering that brought them to life.
Highlights of my visit included:
- The breathtaking size and scale of The Kelpies
- The intricate details and textures of the sculptures
- The stunning light reflections and shadows
- The fascinating guided tour and insights into The Kelpies' history and design
If you're visiting Scotland, The Kelpies are an absolute must-see attraction. Be sure to book a guided tour to get the most out of your visit!
Tips:
- Book a guided tour to learn more about The Kelpies' history and design
- Visit at sunset or sunrise for stunning light effects
- Take a walk around the surrounding landscape for breathtaking views
- Bring a camera to capture the incredible details and textures of The Kelpies
I'd highly recommend The Kelpies to anyone interested in art, architecture, or Scottish culture. It's a truly unforgettable experience!"
Ricky ClarkRicky Clark
We have visited this a couple of time now. We first went there about 10 years ago when touring Scotland in our motorhome. We went back a few years ago coming out of lockdown to do the NC500. It's a great place to view, but even better at night when it is lite up with the various colours. They allow you to pay a small fee and stay on the parking all night. It's not directly next to them, but a short 3 minute walk in the evening to take those fab photos. We actually stayed over night coming back from the NC500. There was talk on the internet about people using the car park for joy riding at night, but I must say I had nothing like that, it was fairly quite and a lovely evening watching the Kelpies before bed and an early travel back to home.
Regarding the Kelpies - These are just breath-taking. Most times the photos do not really do justice to them. The site is also very well kept and there are some small stalls on site at busy time. They apparently do a lovely display at special times of the year - Firework night - Christmas etc so it may be worth keeping an eye out at time like that. If however you are planning on staying over night, do get there a little early because at busy time you could find spaces a little bit in short supply.
One other thing, if in the area and you want to see another site, you can walk along the cannel to the Falkirk Wheel, another fantastic site.
See the video - copy link into your browser
https://youtu.be/uyDtljdAJEk
The Falkirk Wheel
The Falkirk Wheel
4.6Historical Place
Mi G (MG)Mi G (MG)
Title: A Marvel of Engineering and a Must-Visit Attraction
I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Falkirk Wheel, and I must say, it's an incredible feat of engineering and a fantastic tourist attraction. As someone who appreciates innovation and history, I was thoroughly impressed by this rotating boat lift that connects the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal.
*History and Construction*
The Falkirk Wheel was built as part of the Millennium Link project, which aimed to regenerate central Scotland's canals and reconnect Glasgow with Edinburgh. The project was led by British Waterways, with support from various local authorities, the Scottish Enterprise Network, the European Regional Development Fund, and the Millennium Commission. The wheel was designed by a team of architects and engineers, led by Tony Kettle from RMJM, and was constructed by the Morrison-Bachy Soletanche Joint Venture Team. The construction process was complex, involving the excavation of 250,000 cubic meters of earth, the building of a 160-meter canal tunnel, and the installation of a sophisticated hydraulic system.
*Operation and Experience*
The Falkirk Wheel is an absolute marvel to watch in operation. The wheel raises boats by 24 meters, and the process is surprisingly smooth and quiet. Visitors can take a boat trip on the wheel, which departs approximately once an hour. The experience is not only fascinating but also provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The visitor center offers insight into the history and construction of the wheel, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable.
*Impressions and Highlights*
What struck me most about the Falkirk Wheel was its sheer scale and elegance. The wheel's design is inspired by a Celtic double-headed axe, and it's a beautiful, organic flowing thing, like the spine of a fish. The wheel's operation is also incredibly efficient, using a sophisticated hydraulic system to raise and lower boats. The visitor center is well-designed, with interactive exhibits and a friendly staff. The boat trip on the wheel is a must-do, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
*Conclusion*
In conclusion, the Falkirk Wheel is an absolute must-visit attraction for anyone interested in engineering, history, and innovation. Its sheer scale, elegance, and efficiency make it a marvel of modern engineering, and the visitor experience is both fascinating and enjoyable. I would highly recommend a visit to the Falkirk Wheel to anyone traveling to central Scotland.
Rating: 5/5 stars
Price: £13.50 (adult ticket)
Recommended for: Anyone interested in engineering, history, and innovation. Families with children will also enjoy the boat trip and interactive exhibits.
GRUMPY FOXGRUMPY FOX
Visited the Falkirk Wheel yesterday as had been recommended to do so by a local where we are staying.
We arrived and found that parking was in plenty supply. A very short walk to the visitors center and ticket office on a beautiful sunny day. Once at the visitors center we were met with the wheel and I have to say it looks quite impressive.
After booking tickets we had about 50 minutes to wait for our ride so we had a look around the gift shop and then had something to eat.
The food was good, what you would
Expect from a place like this although the pea and mint soup I really did enjoy. One thing I would say it is a very expensive my partner wanted a toasted sandwich and they were £9 (which she refused to pay on principle) and ordinary sandwich was £5, a can of pop £2.35. So we settled for 2 cans of pop 2 soups a scone and a caramel muffin this cost just under £25.
The staff were all very helpful, all jolly and joking people especially the lady who did the tour on the boat she was quite a character. They seemed to be willing to help in any way they could.
The tour its self was good and an experience I’d not normally have at home so was something new but we enjoyed the short trip and the views.
Being a drone pilot I approached the staff requesting authorization to take off from a quiet corner to obtain a 360 photo and some aerial photos. The member of staff explained they were not keen on drones within the site but brought a manager out. I think the manager had an understanding of drone laws as he was quite knowledgeable. After I explained what I wanted and he checked my identification cards (drone A2CofC) he gave me authority to take off from an agreed location and to inform them when complete. He also requested I take no close up shots capturing people’s faces. Of course this I was more than happy with. I donned my high vis drone operator vest from the car along with my equipment did my safety checks and did 2 static launches.
The whole experience of this interaction with this manager shows how a positive interaction with staff can result in someone’s visit being made perfect. They did not have to let me launch from
Site but after checking I was in deed a real drone operator they allowed me to. It did help it being very late in the afternoon and very quiet.
PLEASE IF YOU READ THIS DON’T JUAT TAKE A DRONE THERE AND FLY.
THINK ABOUT OTHER PEOPLE AND THEIR ENJOYMENT OF THIS BEAUTIFUL PLACE.
Nimesh DedhiaNimesh Dedhia
The Falkirk Wheel, opened in 2002, is a remarkable feat of modern engineering located in central Scotland. It serves as the world's only rotating boat lift, a unique and awe-inspiring structure. Its primary purpose is to connect the Forth & Clyde Canal with the Union Canal, which previously had a height difference of 35 meters (115 feet). This crucial link re-established a continuous waterway between Scotland's two largest cities, Glasgow and Edinburgh, a connection that had been lost since the original flight of 11 locks was dismantled in 1933.
The design of the Falkirk Wheel is visually striking, inspired by a Celtic double-headed axe. It functions on the simple yet elegant principle of balance and Archimedes' principle of buoyancy. The structure features two opposing arms, each fitted with a water-filled gondola (or caisson) capable of holding multiple boats. Each gondola holds 500,000 litres of water, weighing approximately 500 tonnes.
Crucially, the weight of the water and any boats within the gondolas always remains constant. When a boat enters a gondola, it displaces an equal weight of water, ensuring the two sides of the wheel remain perfectly balanced. This equilibrium allows the massive 1,200-tonne structure to rotate with astonishing energy efficiency, requiring only 1.5 kilowatt-hours of energy per half-turn – equivalent to boiling just eight electric kettles.
The wheel completes a half-turn in approximately 5.5 minutes, smoothly lifting or lowering boats 24 meters (79 feet). After being lifted by the wheel, boats navigate through two additional locks and an aqueduct to reach the full height of the Union Canal. Beyond its functional role, the Falkirk Wheel has become a significant tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors and symbolizing a harmonious blend of innovative engineering and historical canal heritage.
James MurphyJames Murphy
The Falkirk Wheel is a marvel of modern engineering and a truly unique attraction. It's the world's only rotating boat lift, and it's a must-see for anyone visiting Scotland.
The wheel is located in the heart of central Scotland, and it's easy to get to by car, train, or bus. Once you're there, you can take a boat trip on the wheel, or simply watch in awe as it rotates and lifts boats between the Forth and Clyde Canal and the Union Canal.
The boat trip is a great way to experience the wheel and learn more about its history and engineering. The boats are comfortable and spacious, and the staff are knowledgeable and friendly. The trip lasts for about an hour, and you'll get to see the wheel up close and personal.
If you're not up for a boat trip, you can still enjoy the Falkirk Wheel from the shore. There are several viewing platforms where you can watch the wheel rotate and learn more about it from the information boards.
No matter how you choose to experience the Falkirk Wheel, it's an unforgettable experience. It's a truly awe-inspiring sight, and it's a testament to human ingenuity.
Here are some of the things that make the Falkirk Wheel such an upbeat attraction:
It's a unique and innovative piece of engineering.
It's a fun and educational experience for all ages.
It offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
It's a great way to learn about Scottish history and culture.
It's a family-friendly attraction with something for everyone.
If you're looking for a fun and unique day out, be sure to visit the Falkirk Wheel. You won't be disappointed!
Sandi MacLeodSandi MacLeod
Our experience of the Falkirk wheel was brilliant.
We'd read mixed reviews but decided to give it a visit enroute to Edinburgh airport.
The Falkirk wheel is set within a huge area and has a load of cool things for the family to do. There is plenty of space and a walk along the canal watching the boats and wheel.
The wheel itself is just magnificent. An amazing mechanical structure of engineering. We took the boat tour and got to experience the very slow movement of the wheel, which takes you to the height of 27ft * I believe* we were very lucky that our visit was on a warm clear day,as when you are at the top you see for miles.
The boat ride has a guide who explains all the history and details of the wheel as well as explains about the Roman bridge that the boat goes through. Our guide was very knowledgeable and funny. Really enjoyed her * cannot remember her name)
The boat also has audio playing that explains the history of the bridge and area to do with the canals, but it was not very clear or loud. With a boat full of people taking,it was hard to hear. Maybe some leaflets or headphones would be suitable. Especially for hard of hearing.
Our overall experience was 10/10.
My mom really enjoyed it , she's 80 and found everything easy for mobility and getting around.
Oh, 1 negative... more car parking payment machines are needed with a clear indication of where and how to pay before leaving.
We didn't find that easily and had to ask a police officer.
Linlithgow Palace
Linlithgow Palace
4.7Historical Place
Gary MitchellGary Mitchell
Linthgow Palace is a historically significant landmark located in Linlithgow, Scotland. It was the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots, and was used as a residence by Scottish monarchs for centuries. The palace was built in the 15th century by James I of Scotland and has gone through many transformations over the years.
Originally, the palace was a grand fortress meant to protect the Scottish monarchs from invading armies. The first significant addition to the palace was made during the reign of James III when his wife, Queen Margaret, had a chapel built in the French Gothic style.
During the 16th century, the palace went through major renovations under the direction of James V. He added a grand hall, a new chapel, a royal apartment, and an elaborate fountain. The palace was at the height of its grandeur during this time.
Following the death of James V, the palace went through a period of decline. Mary, Queen of Scots, spent her childhood at the palace, but it was not her preferred residence. She preferred the more modern and comfortable accommodations at Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh.
In the 17th century, after the Union of the Crowns, the palace was used less frequently and fell into disrepair. The palace was used as a military barracks during the Jacobite uprisings and was heavily damaged by a fire in 1746.
Despite its decline, the palace has remained an important landmark and a source of pride for the Scottish people. In the 19th and 20th centuries, there were several restoration projects to preserve the palace’s remaining structures, including the grand hall, the fountain, and the chapel.
Today, Linthgow Palace is a popular tourist destination and a must-see attraction for history enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the remaining walls and towers of the palace while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Overall, Linthgow Palace is a symbol of Scottish history and a reminder of Scotland’s long and complex relationship with its monarchs. Its grand architecture and rich history have made it a beloved landmark and an important cultural site.
Stunning historic building with a lot of Scottish history set in the back drop of a beautiful lock and great restaurant and pubs near by I love Linlithgow
Julie BairdJulie Baird
I recently visited Linlithgow Palace with my family, and we had a wonderful time exploring this historic site. We spent around an hour walking through the various rooms, and while some were closed off and had scaffolding, it didn’t detract from our experience too much. The signs around the palace were very informative, offering detailed descriptions of the different rooms, which helped bring the history to life. One highlight was the object room, which had samples of original pottery and weapons that were excavated. These were particularly interesting and gave great insight into the palace's past. We particularly liked the rooms with large fireplaces and had fun imagining how cosy they would have been with a roaring fire.
The staff we interacted with were friendly and helpful, which made the visit even more enjoyable. The gift shop closed around 15:15 so we didn't make it in time, and left the palace as it was closing at 16:00. We used the toilet on the way out, of which there was only one available and it didn't flush.
For a family of four, the £18 entry fee felt very reasonable, especially given the beautiful surroundings and the rich history of the palace. The views of the palace steeple and the nearby loch were stunning, making the visit even more memorable. After exploring the palace, we took a lovely walk around the loch, where we were able to spot ducks and swans, adding a peaceful touch to our day.
Overall, Linlithgow Palace is a fantastic place to visit, and I’d definitely return for another visit. Highly recommended for anyone interested in Scottish history and picturesque landscapes.
Anna Gouw (Annemieke)Anna Gouw (Annemieke)
I visited Linlithgow Palace upon recommendation of staff member Kate at Cairnpapple Hill, as she assured me it was dog friendly and was only a 11 minutes drive from where we were at that time. If they hadn't told me the entire palace was accessible with my dog (apart from the gift shop) I would not have been able to figure that out from the website. Going to Linlithgow Palace was the absolute best decision I could have made. The price to get into, is very fair, especially as parking was free. The palace is absolutely huge despite being a ruin as it burned down (mainly the roof and insides) in the 19th century.
The shape and feeling of the rooms and size of it all really made me think of what it would have been like for someone to live here. Like a servant in the basement kitchen, barely seeing daylight but at least being grateful for this job as they had a roof over their head and food every day. Or an aristocrat who stayed in a beautiful room, but would have to consider siding with a different sovereign at any moment, otherwise risking treason and decapitation. My imagination gets the better of me sometimes.
The palace grounds (which are free to walk in btw) are beautiful and well kept, very quiet and with lovely views over the lake.
I would also like to mention lovely Olympia who was kind enough to look after my dog for a few minutes as I visited the gift shop, and then also went to fill up my water bottle as it didn't fit under the sink in the public bathroom.
10/10 recommend this landmark.
LJ MLJ M
Linlithgow Palace is one of the most important buildings to survive from late medieval Scotland. The name Linlithgow means ' the loch in the damp hollow.' The Loch is the largest body of fresh water in the lothian area.
Linlithgow Palace was actually a wedding present from James IV to Margaret Tudor. It was said Margaret would wait at her chamber at the top of the Palace awaiting her husband's return. Sadly, he died at Flodden. The chamber is beautiful, small, and with views for miles.
Prince James was born at the palace in 1512, and in September 1513, he became king James V. 30 years later , James's wife, Marie of Guise, gave birth to a baby girl in the palace on 8th December 1542 , 6 days later , she became Mary Queen of Scots after her fathers death. Mary and her mother only lived at the place for 7 months before they moved for greater safety to Stirling Castle.
Mary's son, James VI, used the palace more frequently, but it was neglected. Works began to rebuild in 1618 and it took 6 years to complete.
A beautiful palace which we thoroughly enjoyed. Car parking facilities are available but limited. The staff were so friendly and welcoming. There is a gift shop on site which is very nice.
A must see , especially on a beautiful day
Alex HaasAlex Haas
Came here when the Palace was closed due to contructions. We were aware of that, but didn't have another chance to have a look. And it was well worth a visit to see the exterior, the Queen of Scots statue and the Loch. And for a good circular walk with our dog around the Loch.
The Palace is impressive. Amazing location, sitting upon a small hill, overlooking the Loch.
Once the palace was a majestic royal residence of the Stewarts. Linlithgow Palace served as the royal nursery for James V – born 1512; Mary Queen of Scots – born 1542 and Princess Elizabeth – born 1596.
The end came in 1746, when a great fire swept through the palace. Linlithgow Palace today lies roofless and ruined.
Right on the grounds you'll find a statue of Mary, Queen of Scots and the impressive St. Michaels Parish Church.
A nice place to visit. Closed or not. You could park down at the Water Yett Carpark for free. Makes a nice little stroll up to the palace (or keep going - around the Loch).
