Walk 1557 - printer friendly version

The Falkirk Wheel and the Kelpies Walk

Author - Lou Johnson

Length - 8.0 miles / 13 km

Ascent - 150 feet / 45 metres

Grade - easy/mod

Start - OS grid reference NS907817
Lat 56.015716 + Long -3.7548484
Postcode FK3 8YE (approx. location only)

This walk includes two recent visitor attractions in Falkirk with a walk along the historic Forth & Clyde Canal, which was opened for sea-going ships in 1790. The route is easy to follow, is flat but traverses mainly urban landscapes. The start is The Helix in Falkirk which lies to the east of the A9 ( close to Falkirk's football stadium. The start is a small car park (grid ref. NS907817) which is the first parking area on the left when entering the site. There is additional parking (fee payable) nearer the Kelpies and also an overflow car park at the Falkirk football stadium (except on match days).

It is suggested that you leave visiting the Kelpies until the end of the walk. From the car park recommended above, walk towards the Kelpies on a clear path to reach the canal. Continue a short way and cross the canal at a bridge. Turn left over the bridge and then follow the canal westwards (i.e. with the canal on your left). No further instructions are required until you reach the Falkirk wheel. Here you can cross the canal and enter the site with its café and gift shop.

To return to the Kelpies retrace your steps along the canal and continue to inspect these wonderful pieces of art or engineering. The site was still being developed in Spring 2015 with larger facilities under construction. These included a visitor centre, gift shop and a larger café.

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