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The Kelpies at The Helix, Falkirk
Majestic 30-meter steel horse-head sculptures celebrating Scotland’s heritage, set in the expansive and vibrant Helix eco-park near Falkirk.
The Kelpies are monumental 30-meter-tall steel horse-head sculptures located in The Helix park near Falkirk, Scotland. Inspired by the Clydesdale horses that once worked in the region, these iconic sculptures celebrate Scotland’s industrial and cultural heritage. Set within a 350-hectare eco-park, The Helix offers scenic walking and cycling trails, water features, play areas, and a visitor centre with exhibitions, a café, and a 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
Car
Driving from Edinburgh, take the M9 motorway towards Stirling and exit at Junction 5 for Falkirk. From Glasgow, use the M80 and M876 to reach Junction 5. Parking is available near the Visitor Centre with fees applying; expect busy conditions during peak times. Travel time ranges from 30 to 50 minutes depending on traffic.
Train and Bus
Take a train to Falkirk High station from Edinburgh or Glasgow, with journey times around 25-35 minutes. From Falkirk High, local buses or taxis can take you to The Helix in approximately 15 minutes. Bus services run regularly but check schedules in advance.
Guided Tour
Several guided tours operate from Edinburgh and Glasgow, often combining The Kelpies with nearby attractions like the Falkirk Wheel. Tours typically last 3 to 4 hours and cost around £40-£60 per person, including transport and entry fees.
Walking and Cycling
For local visitors, The Helix is accessible via well-maintained walking and cycling paths from surrounding communities. Terrain is flat and suitable for wheelchairs and prams, making it an easy and scenic option.
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 experience the inside of the sculptures and learn about their engineering and history.
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Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light to photograph the sculptures with dramatic shadows and reflections.
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The Helix Visitor Centre café and The Horsebox offer refreshments and snacks—consider stopping for a break during your visit.
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Wear comfortable shoes to explore the extensive walking and cycling trails throughout The Helix park.
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Dogs are allowed in the park but not on the Kelpie guided tours, so plan accordingly if visiting with pets.
The Kelpies location weather suitability
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Discover more about The Kelpies
Monumental Sculptures Celebrating Scotland’s Heritage
The Kelpies are two towering horse-head sculptures standing 30 meters tall, crafted from steel and weighing over 300 tonnes each. Created by Glasgow-based artist Andy Scott, they pay tribute to the working Clydesdale horses that once pulled barges along Scotland’s canals and labored in the fields around Falkirk. The sculptures embody strength and endurance, inspired by mythical kelpies—shape-shifting water spirits from Scottish folklore said to possess the power of 100 horses.The Helix: A Transformative Eco-Park
The Kelpies are the centerpiece of The Helix, a 350-hectare parkland developed to rejuvenate underused land between Falkirk and Grangemouth. The Helix combines art, nature, and recreation with miles of walking and cycling paths, wetlands, woodlands, and water features. Visitors can enjoy picnic spots, a children’s Adventure Zone play area, and water sports facilities, making it a vibrant destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.Visitor Centre and Amenities
The Helix Visitor Centre, open daily from 9:30am to 5pm, offers an exhibition space detailing the history and craftsmanship behind The Kelpies. It houses a café serving refreshments and a gift shop with souvenirs. Additional food options include The Hide café and The Horsebox café, which offers artisan ice cream and snacks. The park is wheelchair accessible with flat, smooth paths, accessible toilets, and disabled parking spaces.Guided Tours and Visitor Experience
Visitors can take a 25-minute guided tour starting at the Visitor Centre to go inside one of the sculptures, offering a unique perspective on their scale and engineering. The tours require a small fee and are bookable in advance. The open parkland allows free 24/7 access to view the sculptures externally, which are especially striking at sunrise and sunset. The surrounding landscape and waterways enhance the visual impact of the sculptures.Mythology and Inspiration Behind The Kelpies
The name 'Kelpies' comes from Scottish folklore creatures believed to be powerful water spirits taking the form of horses. The sculptures’ design reflects this mythology, symbolizing transformation and resilience. The Kelpies also celebrate the historical importance of horses in Scotland’s industrial past, particularly their role in canal transport and agriculture.Accessibility and Visitor Tips
The Helix park and The Kelpies are accessible year-round, with flat terrain suitable for wheelchairs and prams. Dogs are welcome in the park but not allowed on the guided Kelpie tours. The site offers ample parking, though it can be busy during holidays and warmer months. Visitors are encouraged to allocate 2–3 hours to fully explore The Helix, enjoy the park amenities, and take the Kelpie tour.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
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