The Kelpies Travel Guide

The Kelpies are a pair of colossal horse-head sculptures standing 30 metres tall, designed by Glasgow-based artist Andy Scott. These awe-inspiring structures pay homage to the powerful Clydesdale horses that once toiled pulling barges along Scotland’s canals and working the fields in the Falkirk and Grangemouth area. Constructed from steel and weighing over 300 tonnes each, the sculptures symbolize the strength and endurance of these animals, connecting Scotland’s industrial heritage with contemporary public art.

The Kelpies form the centerpiece of The Helix, a 350-hectare parkland developed from previously underused land between Falkirk and Grangemouth. Since opening in 2013, The Helix has blossomed into a vibrant recreational space combining art, nature, and play. It features over 27km of interconnected walking and cycling paths, a lagoon, splash-play and adventure zones for children, and scenic picnic areas. The park is designed for accessibility, with flat, smooth surfaces and facilities catering to all visitors.

The Helix Visitor Centre, open daily from 9am to 5pm, offers an immersive exhibition space where visitors can learn about the engineering, craftsmanship, and stories behind The Kelpies and the local Falkirk area. The centre includes a café serving a variety of refreshments and a gift shop stocked with unique souvenirs. Guided tours allow guests to step inside one of the horse sculptures, providing a rare insight into their construction and design.

The Helix links with Falkirk’s extensive award-winning path network, including the Heart of Falkirk Trail, a 16km circular route passing notable landmarks such as The Falkirk Wheel, Callendar Park, and Rosebank Distillery. These trails invite exploration on foot or by bike, connecting 17 local communities and offering a rich blend of natural beauty, heritage, and leisure activities.

The park and visitor centre prioritize accessibility with wheelchair-friendly paths, accessible toilets, and designated parking spaces. Families will find baby changing facilities and outdoor play areas, while pet owners are welcome throughout the park (though dogs are not permitted on the Kelpie tours). Seasonal amenities include cafés, picnic spots, and well-maintained rest areas, ensuring a comfortable visit year-round.

At night, The Kelpies are illuminated by sensor-activated lighting, creating a magical spectacle that highlights their monumental scale and intricate design. Photographers and visitors alike are drawn to the sculptures at sunrise and sunset, when golden light enhances their dramatic presence. Unique details, such as the hoof-shaped paving stones surrounding the sculptures, offer creative angles for memorable photos.