Avon Aqueduct
Scotland's grandest aqueduct: cast iron, twelve arches, and two centuries of history spanning the River Avon.
A magnificent 19th-century engineering marvel spanning the River Avon near Linlithgow, Scotland. This navigable aqueduct carries the Union Canal across a 247-metre cast-iron trough supported by twelve graceful arches, standing 25.9 metres high. Designed by Scottish engineer Hugh Baird with guidance from Thomas Telford, it represents the second-largest aqueduct in Britain and the largest in Scotland. The structure combines industrial heritage with scenic beauty, offering visitors a chance to walk the historic towpath and experience a crucial link in Scotland's transport history.
A brief summary to Avon Aqueduct
- Linlithgow, EH49 6AJ, GB
- +441506671215
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.75 to 2.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit in clear weather to fully appreciate the views down into the River Avon valley and the intricate details of the twelve arches from below the structure.
- Walk the towpath at a leisurely pace to observe the cast-iron trough and the hollow spandrels that characterise Telford's engineering design philosophy.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the restored Union Canal towpath, which offers continuous walking routes with historical significance throughout the region.
- Bring binoculars to observe the architectural details of the arches and the river landscape below, particularly the tapering piers that support the structure.
- Visit during golden hour—early morning or late afternoon—when the light enhances the aqueduct's stone and iron features and creates dramatic shadows across the arches.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Car
From Linlithgow town centre, drive west on the A803 towards Falkirk for approximately 2 kilometres. The aqueduct is accessible via the Union Canal towpath, with parking available near the Linlithgow Canal Boat Centre on the A803. Journey time from Edinburgh city centre is approximately 45 minutes via the A8 and A801. Parking is limited but available near the canal access points.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Linlithgow to Edinburgh and surrounding areas. From Linlithgow bus station, take local services towards Falkirk or use regional services from Edinburgh. Journey time from Edinburgh is approximately 1 hour depending on service. Once in Linlithgow, the aqueduct is accessible via a 20–30 minute walk from the town centre along the Union Canal towpath.
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Train
Linlithgow railway station is served by ScotRail services on the Edinburgh to Falkirk line. Journey time from Edinburgh Waverley is approximately 25–30 minutes. From the station, walk west towards the Union Canal towpath, approximately 15–20 minutes on foot, following signage towards the canal and aqueduct.
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Walking
The aqueduct is best accessed via the Union Canal towpath, which is flat and well-maintained. From Linlithgow town centre, follow the A803 westward or use the canal towpath directly. The walk to the aqueduct from the town centre is approximately 20–30 minutes on level terrain. The towpath is accessible year-round, though winter weather may affect surface conditions.
Avon Aqueduct location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Avon Aqueduct
A Monument to Industrial Innovation
The Avon Aqueduct stands as one of Britain's most impressive feats of 19th-century engineering, a testament to the ambition and skill of Scottish engineers during the height of the Industrial Revolution. Completed between 1819 and 1821, this navigable aqueduct was designed by Hugh Baird, a talented Scottish engineer who sought advice from Thomas Telford, the renowned designer of the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct in Wales. The structure measures 247 metres in length, 25.9 metres in height, and 7.2 metres in width, making it the second-longest aqueduct in Britain and the largest in Scotland. Its twelve graceful arches span the River Avon valley with remarkable precision, each arch supporting the weight of the cast-iron trough that carries the Union Canal across the landscape.The Union Canal and Its Strategic Purpose
The Avon Aqueduct was built as part of the Edinburgh and Glasgow Union Canal, an ambitious 32-mile waterway designed to link Edinburgh with the Forth and Clyde Canal at Falkirk. The canal was conceived with practical economic goals in mind: to transport coal from Scottish coalmines and lime for building materials into Edinburgh, reducing costs and supporting industrial growth. The engineering approach was remarkably elegant—the canal follows the natural contours of the land throughout its entire length, requiring locks only at its junction with the Forth and Clyde Canal. This design minimised construction complexity while maximising efficiency, a principle that influenced the entire project's success.Cast Iron and Architectural Elegance
The aqueduct's most distinctive feature is its cast-iron trough, which carries the canal water across the valley in a contained channel. This innovative use of cast iron, inspired by Telford's earlier work, allowed for a lighter structure than traditional masonry while maintaining exceptional strength and durability. The twelve arches feature characteristic hollow spandrels—a design choice that reduced weight without compromising structural integrity. Flanking the water channel on both sides are cobbled towpaths, which allowed canal workers to guide boats across the aqueduct and now provide walkers with a unique vantage point overlooking the River Avon below.From Commercial Artery to Leisure Route
The canal's commercial life was relatively short-lived. By the mid-19th century, the rapidly expanding railway network began to displace canal transport. The North British and Caledonian Railway Company purchased the canal to eliminate competition, and the waterway was officially closed in 1965. However, the aqueduct's story did not end there. Towards the end of the 20th century, restoration efforts began, recognising the structure's historical and cultural significance. The canal was reopened in 2002 for leisure purposes, transforming it from a commercial transport route into a cherished recreational corridor. Today, the aqueduct serves walkers, cyclists, and canal enthusiasts rather than coal barges and lime boats.A Living Landscape of History
Visiting the Avon Aqueduct offers more than a glimpse of industrial heritage—it provides an immersive experience in Scotland's transport evolution. The towpaths that line the canal offer ideal walking routes with panoramic views down into the River Avon valley, allowing visitors to appreciate both the engineering achievement and the natural landscape it traverses. The structure's scale becomes apparent only when viewed from below, where the twelve arches rise dramatically above the river. The aqueduct represents a pivotal moment when human ingenuity harnessed new materials and techniques to reshape the Scottish landscape, creating infrastructure that has endured for over two centuries.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Cross Well
3.8 km
Discover Linlithgow’s iconic crown-shaped Cross Well, a historic monument and vibrant town centre gathering spot steeped in royal heritage.
Sir John de Graeme Memorial Fountain
8.6 km
A tranquil memorial fountain in Falkirk honoring Sir John de Graeme, a valiant knight who fell at the Battle of Falkirk in 1298.
The Queensferry Crossing
15.7 km
Discover the world’s longest three-tower cable-stayed bridge, a modern marvel spanning Scotland’s iconic Firth of Forth.
Forth Rd Bridge
16.2 km
A monumental suspension bridge connecting Edinburgh and Fife, offering stunning views and a rich history spanning over six centuries.
Dunfermline Abbey and Palace
16.8 km
Explore the historical treasures of Dunfermline Abbey and Palace, where Scotland's royal legacy and architectural beauty come to life.
Clackmannan Tower
17.2 km
Explore Clackmannan Tower, Scotland's historic castle offering breathtaking views and a deep dive into medieval heritage.
Hawes Pier, Queensferry
17.2 km
Historic ferry pier where centuries of Scottish maritime heritage meet modern tourism beneath the iconic Forth Rail Bridge.
Maid of the Forth
17.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Firth of Forth with Maid of the Forth's scenic boat tours, perfect for families, couples, and nature lovers.
Forth Bridge
17.2 km
A towering red steel cantilever marvel, the Forth Bridge is Scotland’s iconic railway landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Linn Mill
17.5 km
Explore the serene hiking trails of Linn Mill in Alloa, a perfect escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility in the woods.
Alloa Tower
18.4 km
Explore Alloa Tower, a stunning medieval landmark in Scotland, surrounded by picturesque parkland and rich history. A must-visit for heritage enthusiasts.
Palacerigg Country Park
18.4 km
Experience the tranquility of Palacerigg Country Park in Cumbernauld, Glasgow - a natural haven for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
Alloa War Memorial
18.6 km
A poignant tribute in Alloa featuring St Margaret and soldiers, honoring local heroes from both World Wars with powerful symbolism.
Gold Crest Mural
18.8 km
Explore the Gold Crest Mural in Alloa, a vibrant symbol of local artistry and cultural heritage that enchants every visitor.
Argyll Place
18.9 km
Explore Alloa's charm from Argyll Place, your gateway to stunning landscapes and rich history in Scotland.
Unmissable attractions to see
Muiravonside Country Park
0.4 km
Explore 170 acres of woodland, farm animals, play trails, and art in Falkirk’s scenic Muiravonside Country Park.
Play Bugs
2.7 km
A vibrant indoor playground in Linlithgow offering multi-level soft play fun for children with a relaxing café for parents.
Avon Falls
2.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Avon Falls and its historic aqueduct amidst Falkirk’s scenic woodland and country park.
Torphichen Preceptory Historic Scotland
3.3 km
Explore the evocative medieval headquarters of Scotland’s Knights Hospitaller, rich in history, architecture, and legend.
The Scottish Korean War Memorial
3.7 km
A serene Scottish tribute blending native trees and Korean symbolism to honor the fallen of the Korean War.
Linlithgow Museum
3.8 km
Explore Linlithgow’s royal heritage and vibrant local history in this accessible, free-entry museum at the heart of the town.
St Michael's Parish Church
3.8 km
Historic medieval church beside Linlithgow Palace, famed for royal ties and its iconic crown steeple symbolizing Scotland’s spiritual heritage.
Linlithgow Palace
3.9 km
Explore Linlithgow Palace, the historic birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots, and immerse yourself in Scotland's regal past amidst stunning architecture and serene landscapes.
Beecraigs Country Park
4.0 km
Explore 370 hectares of woodland, wildlife, and adventure in West Lothian’s largest country park near historic Linlithgow.
Kinneil Estate
5.2 km
Explore Kinneil Estate’s rich tapestry of Roman ruins, Renaissance grandeur, and steam engine innovation in historic Bo'ness.
Kingsfield Golf & Leisure
6.8 km
A well-maintained 9-hole golf course with expert coaching, a welcoming café, and excellent facilities in scenic Linlithgow.
Rooms @ the Railway
7.2 km
Comfortable rooms and a classic pub atmosphere combine at Rooms @ the Railway, Bathgate’s friendly stopover spot.
Bo'ness Motor Museum
7.4 km
Discover classic cars, iconic movie vehicles, and family-friendly fun at Bo'ness Motor Museum, open weekends in scenic Bo'ness, Scotland.
Callendar House
7.6 km
Explore centuries of Scottish history and stunning architecture in the majestic Callendar House set within beautiful Callendar Park.
Callendar Park
7.6 km
Explore Falkirk’s historic 170-acre Callendar Park with its majestic mansion, Roman-themed play areas, scenic woodlands, and family-friendly trails.
Essential places to dine
Mason Belles Kitchen
3.9 km
A boutique family-run restaurant in Linlithgow, serving relaxed contemporary Scottish food with a creative twist in a charming hidden setting.
Bar Leo
3.9 km
Contemporary Italian dining on Linlithgow's High Street, blending classical recipes with modern flair.
Champany Inn
6.8 km
Charming historic inn near Linlithgow, famed for exceptional steaks, boutique rooms, and warm Scottish hospitality.
Hopetoun Bar & Bistro
6.9 km
Family-run award-winning bistro in Bathgate serving hearty Scottish classics in a lively, welcoming atmosphere with attentive service.
Toby Carvery Bathgate Farm
8.3 km
Traditional British carvery in Bathgate serving hearty roasts, breakfasts, and family-friendly meals in a welcoming setting.
Premier Inn Livingston (Bathgate) hotel
8.4 km
Modern comfort and friendly service at Premier Inn Livingston (Bathgate), your convenient gateway to West Lothian and Scotland’s vibrant cities.
Saltire
9.8 km
A lively Livingston pub with flame-grilled food, live sports, and a relaxed beer garden – perfect for casual meals and drinks with friends.
Deer Park Beefeater
9.8 km
Classic British grill dining with hearty steaks and a welcoming atmosphere beside Livingston’s M8 junction.
Chenzo's Restaurant
10.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with warm hospitality in the heart of Uphall at Chenzo's Restaurant.
The Oatridge Hotel & Restaurant
10.2 km
Charming 19th-century coach house with cozy rooms, lively bar, and hearty dining near Edinburgh Airport in the heart of Uphall.
Volunteer Arms Lounge Bistro
10.4 km
Honest home cooking, genuine hospitality, and fair prices in a welcoming Uphall bistro.
One 0 Eight Bar & Restaurant
10.8 km
Casual British and Scottish dining with friendly service in a warm, inviting setting at The Hilcroft Hotel, Bathgate.
Sabannga Thai Restaurant
10.9 km
Authentic Northern Thai flavours in a peaceful Uphall Station setting, with family recipes and inclusive dining options.
The Livingston Inn
11.4 km
Historic Scottish coaching inn in Livingston Village offering traditional pub fare, cozy rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere steeped in heritage.
BAYLEAF (Indian) Restaurant Livingston
12.0 km
Authentic Indian flavours, elegant dining, and warm hospitality in Livingston – a top choice for curry lovers and families alike.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fair Tradewinds
3.6 km
Discover unique fair trade gifts and sustainable fashion at Fair Tradewinds in Linlithgow’s historic High Street.
Sense Scotland
7.1 km
Discover unique vintage finds and support a vital Scottish charity at Sense Scotland’s Bathgate shop, a hub of community and sustainability.
The Original Factory Shop (Bathgate)
7.4 km
Discover unbeatable deals on clothing, beauty, and home essentials at The Original Factory Shop in Bathgate, your go-to discount retailer.
Shoppittstar
8.6 km
Explore Shoppittstar in Livingston for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the essence of your travels.
Whimsic Alley
8.9 km
A whimsical gift shop in Falkirk filled with magical treasures, fantasy novelties, and storybook charm for fans of all things enchanted.
First Shop
9.8 km
Discover convenience and local charm at First Shop in Livingston, where friendly service meets quality products for all your travel needs.
Whiteflower Mercantile Fancy Dress
11.2 km
Discover a world of creative costumes at Whiteflower Mercantile Fancy Dress in Livingston, the perfect stop for unique dress-up experiences.
Your Factory Outlet
11.5 km
Discover quality fashion and a bright shopping atmosphere at Your Factory Outlet, Livingston’s accessible clothing destination.
The Works
12.4 km
Affordable creativity and family-friendly shopping meet at The Works in Livingston Designer Outlet.
Weird Fish Livingstone Store
12.5 km
Discover durable, stylish casual wear at Weird Fish Livingston, nestled in Scotland’s largest designer outlet with accessible shopping and great prices.
Craigshill Shopping Mall
12.5 km
A vibrant community shopping centre in Livingston offering diverse stores and essential services for everyday needs.
The Fashion Love Boutique
12.5 km
Discover stylish clothing and friendly service at Livingston’s Fashion Love Boutique, your go-to spot for great fashion finds in The Mall.
Menkind
12.6 km
Discover unique gadgets, pop culture collectibles, and wellness gifts tailored for men at Menkind Livingston, Scotland’s premier men’s gift shop.
Superdry
12.7 km
Discover premium British casualwear and sustainable style at Superdry Livingston in The Centre, Almondvale South.
Pretty Little Boutique
12.7 km
Discover unique hats and jewelry with personalized service at Pretty Little Boutique in the heart of Livingston’s vibrant shopping centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Willow Tree
3.1 km
A historic Linlithgow pub reborn as The Willow Tree, blending tradition, local legend, and lively hospitality in a welcoming setting.
Torphichen Inn
3.5 km
A welcoming Scottish pub in Torphichen offering hearty food, live music, and a warm village atmosphere.
The Glenmavis Tavern
6.8 km
A welcoming Bathgate pub known for friendly service, quality Guinness, lively entertainment, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
The Livery Lounge
6.9 km
A casual and lively lounge in Bathgate offering affordable drinks, karaoke nights, and a welcoming local atmosphere.
The Ballencrieff
6.9 km
A modern, welcoming pub in Bathgate offering fresh food, live music, sports, and a lively atmosphere for all ages and occasions.
New Royal Bar
7.0 km
A lively and friendly Bathgate pub offering great atmosphere, karaoke fun, and affordable drinks in a welcoming community setting.
Nineteentwelve
7.0 km
A welcoming modern bar and eatery in Bathgate known for great food, attentive service, and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.
Cafebar 1912
7.0 km
A vibrant café, bar, and restaurant in Bathgate offering casual dining, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere from morning till late.
Midnight Breakfast Club
7.1 km
Cozy Bathgate bar and live music venue with affordable drinks, friendly vibes, and a strong local music scene.
DreadnoughtRock Nightclub & Live Music Venue
7.2 km
Bathgate’s iconic rock venue offering live music, a lively nightclub, and a welcoming atmosphere for night owls and music lovers.
Regal Bar
7.8 km
A welcoming and traditional pub in Armadale offering cozy charm, local drinks, and a friendly atmosphere for regulars and visitors alike.
Coppies Bar
8.1 km
A lively and friendly sports bar in Armadale offering great drinks, community spirit, and regular entertainment in a welcoming Scottish pub setting.
Rowan Tree
9.1 km
A vibrant, family-friendly pub in Armadale offering fresh pub classics, vegan options, and a welcoming atmosphere with a stylish conservatory and beer garden.
Cawburn Sports Bar
11.8 km
Lively sports bar in Pumpherston offering live games, snooker, pool, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Auld Hoose
12.0 km
A lively, dog-friendly pub in Kincardine known for hearty food, extensive whisky, craft beers, and a welcoming atmosphere with rock music and karaoke.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Twig Nightclub
6.8 km
Bathgate’s oldest nightclub offering lively, affordable, and historic nightlife experiences every Saturday night.
XOXO
8.8 km
Central Scotland’s largest nightclub offering vibrant nightlife, pool hall fun, and private event spaces in the heart of Falkirk.
City Nightclub
8.8 km
Experience Falkirk’s vibrant nightlife at City Nightclub, the town’s energetic weekend hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night fun.
West Lothian Casting Agency
12.2 km
Discover the vibrant adult entertainment scene at West Lothian Casting Agency, where immersive performances and themed events await every visitor.
LIFE
16.8 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and late-night fun at LIFE, Dunfermline’s energetic nightclub with a welcoming atmosphere and great music.
Hustlers Pool Hall
16.8 km
Affordable, lively pool hall and sports bar in Rosyth offering fun games, friendly vibes, and great social atmosphere for all ages.
I-Kandy Nightclub
22.6 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at I-Kandy Nightclub in Airdrie, where vibrant music and a lively atmosphere await!
Pulse
22.9 km
Experience Airdrie’s vibrant nightlife at Pulse Nightclub, where music, dancing, and unforgettable moments come alive.
Slanj-A-Va
24.2 km
Discover Slanj-A-Va: Stirling's premier live music venue offering an unforgettable night out filled with diverse musical experiences.
Castle Leisure Group
24.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Castle Leisure Group in Stirling – a perfect blend of dining, nightlife, and entertainment for tourists.
Lawsons
24.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and welcoming charm of Lawsons, a premier bar in Stirling perfect for unwinding after a day of adventures.
Fubar Nightclub
24.5 km
Experience Stirling’s energetic student nightlife at Fubar Nightclub, where music, lights, and lively crowds come alive late into the night.
Nicky-Tams Bar & Bothy
24.6 km
Experience the warmth of Scottish hospitality at Nicky-Tams Bar & Bothy, a gastropub in Stirling offering delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere.
Curly Coo Bar
24.6 km
Curly Coo Bar: Discover Stirling’s lively bar scene with great drinks, friendly vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Settle Inn
24.9 km
Experience the charm of Stirling at Settle Inn, where delightful drinks and lively folk music create the perfect bar atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Industrial
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
