The Kelpies
The Kelpies at The Helix, Falkirk
The Kelpies at The Helix: Scotland’s Majestic Equine Sculptures
Discover The Kelpies, towering steel horse sculptures at The Helix park, blending art, heritage, and nature in Scotland’s Falkirk region.
The Kelpies are two towering 30-meter-high steel horse-head sculptures located in The Helix park, Falkirk. Created by artist Andy Scott, they celebrate Scotland’s horse-powered heritage and stand as iconic landmarks beside the Forth & Clyde Canal. The Helix is a vast 350-hectare eco-park offering walking and cycling trails, water activities, picnic spots, and a visitor centre with exhibitions, café, and gift shop.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to The Kelpies
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
The Helix, Falkirk, Grangemouth, FK2 7ZT, GB
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Mid ranged
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
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Getting There
By Car
Accessible via the M9 motorway, The Helix Park is about 19 miles from Edinburgh and 35 miles from Glasgow. Parking is available near the Visitor Centre with a mix of free and paid spaces. Travel time ranges from 30 to 50 minutes depending on traffic. Parking can be busy during peak seasons.
By Train and Bus
From Edinburgh, take a train to Polmont station (approximately 30 minutes), or from Glasgow, to Falkirk High station (about 25 minutes). From either station, local bus services or taxis provide onward travel to The Helix Park within 15-20 minutes. Bus frequency varies, so check schedules in advance.
Guided Tours
Several guided tours operate from Edinburgh and Glasgow, combining visits to The Kelpies with other regional attractions. Tours typically last 4-6 hours and include transportation, with prices ranging from £40 to £70 per person.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
Restrooms
Drink Options
Food Options
Seating Areas
Trash Bins
Information Boards
Visitor CenterLocal tips
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Book the guided Kelpie Tour in advance to explore inside the sculptures and learn about their engineering and history.
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Visit the Helix Visitor Centre for exhibitions, a café, and a gift shop with unique Kelpies-themed souvenirs.
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Wear comfortable shoes and take time to explore the extensive walking and cycling trails around The Helix.
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The park is wheelchair and pram friendly with flat, smooth paths and accessible facilities.
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Bring a camera to capture the Kelpies from various angles, especially at sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting.
The Kelpies location weather suitability
Catch the right light and the right mood, whether you want a bright city moment or a more cinematic evening visit.
Discover more about The Kelpies
Monumental Tribute to Scotland’s Working Horses
The Kelpies are colossal sculptures standing 30 metres tall, designed by Glasgow-based artist Andy Scott. These magnificent steel horse heads pay homage to the powerful Clydesdale horses that once pulled barges along Scotland’s canals and worked in local fields. Named after two real horses, Duke and Baron, the sculptures embody the strength and endurance of these animals that shaped the region’s industrial past.The Helix: A Transformative Eco-Park
The Kelpies are the centerpiece of The Helix, a 350-hectare land regeneration project that transformed underused land between Falkirk and Grangemouth into a vibrant park. The Helix blends art, nature, and recreation, featuring extensive walking and cycling trails, wetlands, woodlands, and a lagoon. Visitors can enjoy water sports, a children’s adventure play area, and scenic picnic spots, making it a destination for all ages.Visitor Experience and Amenities
The Helix Visitor Centre, open daily from 9:30am to 5pm, offers an exhibition space detailing the history and engineering behind The Kelpies. The centre includes a café serving snacks and light meals, a gift shop with souvenirs inspired by the sculptures, and accessible restrooms. Nearby, The Horsebox café provides artisan ice cream and homemade treats. The park is wheelchair and pram friendly, with flat, smooth paths and accessible facilities.Guided Tours and Educational Insights
For a deeper appreciation, visitors can join a guided 25-minute Kelpie Tour, which includes the rare opportunity to enter inside one of the sculptures. These tours reveal the intricate engineering and artistic process behind The Kelpies, enriching the experience with stories of Scottish folklore and industrial heritage. Booking in advance is recommended for these popular tours.Artistic and Cultural Significance
The Kelpies symbolize the fusion of Scotland’s industrial history with contemporary art. Beyond their monumental scale, they evoke mythical water horses from Scottish folklore, adding layers of cultural meaning. Their location beside the new canal extension linking the Forth & Clyde Canal to the North Sea underscores their role as a gateway between Scotland’s past and present.Natural Beauty and Recreational Opportunities
Surrounding The Kelpies, The Helix offers a tranquil environment with wetlands and green spaces that support local wildlife. The park encourages outdoor activities like walking, cycling, and picnicking, providing a peaceful escape within easy reach of Falkirk and Grangemouth. Seasonal events and art installations further enhance the park’s dynamic atmosphere.A brief summary to The Kelpies
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Plan around the quieter times
A quick look at seasonal patterns and peak visiting hours.
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