Perfectly positioned between Edinburgh and Glasgow, Falkirk is one of Scotland’s most underrated destinations. Rich in history, engineering marvels, beautiful parks and outdoor adventures, it’s the ideal base for a day trip or a longer Scottish getaway.
Whether you’re fascinated by Roman history, looking for family-friendly attractions, or simply want to enjoy spectacular scenery, here’s our guide to the very best things to do around Falkirk.
Marvel at The Kelpies
Standing an incredible 30 metres high, The Kelpies are Scotland’s largest equine sculptures and have become one of the country’s most photographed landmarks.
Inspired by the mythical shape-shifting water spirits of Scottish folklore, these two magnificent horse heads celebrate the important role working horses played in Scotland’s industrial heritage.
During the day they’re impressive, but visit after sunset when they’re beautifully illuminated for an unforgettable experience.
Don’t miss:
- Walking around Helix Park
- Evening photography
- Guided tours inside the sculptures
- Cycling along the nearby canals
Watch the World’s Only Rotating Boat Lift
No visit to Falkirk is complete without seeing The Falkirk Wheel.
This incredible feat of engineering is the world’s only rotating boat lift, connecting the Forth & Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. Watching boats effortlessly rise 24 metres is fascinating for visitors of all ages.
For the full experience, take a boat trip that actually rides the Wheel before continuing along the canal and through the Roughcastle Tunnel.
Perfect for:
- Families
- Engineering enthusiasts
- Photographers
- Canal walks and cycling
Explore Callendar House
History lovers should spend a few hours exploring Callendar House, a magnificent French Renaissance-style mansion surrounded by the beautiful Callendar Park.
The house has over 600 years of history and has welcomed everyone from Mary Queen of Scots to Bonnie Prince Charlie.
Fans of Outlander may also recognise parts of the house, which appeared as the Duke of Sandringham’s home in Season Two.
Inside you’ll discover:
- Historic period rooms
- Interactive exhibitions
- A working Georgian kitchen
- Beautiful art collections
- Family-friendly displays
Outside, Callendar Park offers woodland walks, playgrounds and open green spaces perfect for picnics.
Walk Along the Antonine Wall
Built around 20 years after Hadrian’s Wall, the Antonine Wall marked Rome’s northernmost frontier. Stretching across central Scotland from the Firth of Forth to the Firth of Clyde, it was constructed around AD 142 under Emperor Antoninus Pius.
Although it was occupied for only a couple of decades before the Romans retreated south to Hadrian’s Wall, it remains one of Scotland’s most important archaeological sites and is now part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of the best preserved areas is Rough Castle Fort, where you can still see Roman defensive earthworks and imagine life on the northern frontier of the Roman Empire nearly 2,000 years ago.
Walk the Union Canal
The peaceful Union Canal stretches east towards Edinburgh, offering miles of scenic walking and cycling.
Flat, traffic-free paths make it ideal for:
- Family walks
- Jogging
- Cycling
- Wildlife spotting
- Paddleboarding
The canal is particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset.
Visit Bo’ness and the Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway
Just a short drive from Falkirk lies the historic coastal town of Bo’ness.
One of its biggest attractions is the Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway, where beautifully restored steam trains travel through the countryside.
Nearby you’ll also find:
- Kinneil House
- The Hippodrome Cinema (Scotland’s oldest purpose-built cinema)
- Coastal walks
- Harbour views
Explore the Scottish Owl Centre
Located near Polmont, the Scottish Owl Centre is home to dozens of owl species from around the world. Daily flying displays make it particularly popular with younger visitors and wildlife enthusiasts.
- Spacious aviaries housing 150 owls from 50 different species.
- Large purpose-built barn seating 300 people for daily flying displays.
Why Visit Falkirk?
Falkirk perfectly combines history, engineering, nature and family-friendly attractions in one easily accessible destination. From standing beneath the towering Kelpies and riding the world’s only rotating boat lift to exploring Roman forts, grand historic houses and peaceful country parks, there’s something for every type of traveller.
Whether you’re planning a weekend break or simply looking for one of Scotland’s best day trips, Falkirk offers an incredible variety of experiences right in the heart of the country.