Tour of Falkirk & The Kelpies
Overview
18.4 km
Description
This tour of Falkirk’s surroundings takes in some of the most iconic landmarks in the area.
Starting at Callendar Park, you’ll follow the John Muir Way past the impressive Callendar House before climbing through the huge trees of Callendar Wood to reach the Union Canal.
Peeling off the canal (and leaving the John Muir Way), make your way to Westquarter Glen and pause at its peaceful waterfall before passing Falkirk Stadium on your way to the Helix with its famous Kelpies.
After a tour of the giant sculptures and perhaps an indulgence in the café, you’ll pick up the Forth & Clyde Canal as far as Rosebank Distillery.
A relaxed meander along Falkirk High St (and some well-earned refreshment in its selection of cafes and bistros) takes you back towards Callendar Park to complete the tour.
Terrain
Most of this route follows cycling and walking paths on either tarmac or well surfaced canal towpath. The section through Falkirk and back to Callendar Park is on roads and the pedestrianised High St. The only challenging gradient is the initial rise out of Callendar park but most of the route is fairly flat.
Getting There
By rail: There are several train stations close to this route, including Falkirk High, Grahamston and Camelon.
By bus: Falkirk is well served by a number of bus routes including the 35 service that runs between Falkirk and Kilsyth/Croy, while the X38 links Falkirk and Linlithgow on route to Stirling or Edinburgh.
By car: there is parking at Callendar House and more options in the town centre.
Facilities
While this cycle is fairly short, there’s plenty to see and do on the way. Callendar House has regular exhibitions and the Kelpies are a great place to hang out, go on a tour and relax in the café. There’s plenty to explore in Falkirk too, along with some great food and drink stops.
For a full listing of businesses and attractions on this route, view it on the Plan Your Trip page.
Points of interest
Callendar Park and House
Dating from the 14th century and set in the historic Callendar Park, the house featured in the TV series Outlander. Visit the exhibitions, Georgian kitchen and tearoom. Closed on Tuesdays.
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Falkirk Town Centre
There's more to Falkirk than the Kelpies and the Wheel! The town is steeped in history and boasts superb parks & gardens and a good selection of bistros & cafes.
Visit Website
The Helix & Kelpies
The Helix has transformed almost 300 hectares, offering events, walks and new cycleways near the 30m-high landmark sculptures The Kelpies.
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Westquarter Glen
A peaceful little haven of pathways that follow Westquarter Burn as it meanders over a picturesque waterfall on its way towards Grangemouth.
