WHEN you think of Falkirk, its world famous Wheel and the Kelpies spring to mind – but it has so much more just waiting to be discovered.
From its Roman past and the role it played in Scotland’s industrial revolution, fascinating museums and stately homes to epic walking and cycling trails, you’ll find a host of hidden gems and exciting activities.
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Right in the heart of Scotland, Falkirk couldn’t be easier to access, and with a brilliant range of accommodation, from large hotels to cosy glamping pods, there are loads of ways to stay and explore some more.
Stefanie Paterson, Assistant BID Manager at Falkirk Delivers, says: “Falkirk is a real treasure trove, with lots of unique, interesting places to shop and eat, people are very welcoming and there’s plenty going on.
“Lots of places are free entry, offering great value family days out, or you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the beautiful countryside”
Here are some of the best places to visit in Falkirk and the local area, what to eat and where to stay – so read on, plan your trip and get ready for summer fun!
WHERE TO GO
Blackness Castle
Mighty fortifications make this 15th century castle, near Linlithgow, look like a ‘ship that never sailed’.
Climb the towers and curtain wall for sweeping views of the Firth of Forth and its rail and road bridges.
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Why not take the short cycle path from Bo’ness to Blackness? It’s ideal for families and an easy way to explore the area.
Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway
It’s full steam ahead for family fun at this heritage railway, which offers visitors the chance to board a vintage steam or diesel-hauled train.
Join Thomas the Tank Engine for a day of adventure in July and September or book your tickets for the Santa Train in the run-up to Christmas and enjoy a scenic 10-mile return trip to Manuel along the Forth Estuary, through woodlands, past waterfalls and over the Avon Viaduct, then explore Scotland’s largest railway museum.
Heart of Falkirk Trail
This gentle 10-mile circular route is the perfect way to explore Falkirk’s key landmarks –The Falkirk Wheel, Helix Park: Home of The Kelpies, Rosebank Distillery and Callendar House by bike or on foot.
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Start at The Helix, look out for the Love and Kisses artwork in Abbotshaugh Woods and see historic sites that helped place Falkirk at the heart of Scotland’s industrial revolution.
Callendar House & Antonine Wall
Explore this spectacular, free to visit, stately home in Falkirk which dates back to the 14th century.
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Explore the exhibitions, a Georgian kitchen and playpark, before taking a stroll through the beautiful parklands and discover a long section of the Antonine Wall ditch, dating back to the Romans, just north of the house. A perfect day out for the whole family.
WHERE TO EAT
The Milk Barn
Set in rolling hills, this artisan ice cream parlour near Falkirk serves fabulous ice cream, made with milk from its very own herd of cows.
Flavours include cherry pie, fresh strawberry and cookies and cream. Kick back and relax as the kids have fun in play area and watch them milk ‘Glenda’ the fibreglass cow!
Behind the Wall
A unique venue and social hub in Falkirk for all ages and groups. Whether you’re wanting to chill in the outdoor beer garden, listen to live bands, dance the night away or enjoy a quiet meal with friends, BTW has it all.
Choose from dishes like sticky prawns, southern fried chicken waffle or yummy stone-baked pizzas.
Café at Canada Wood
This lovely, dog-friendly café in Falkirk is surrounded by beautiful countryside, many cycling and walking trails, and a great stopping off point on the John Muir Way (they’ll even stamp your Way passport!) and next to the site of the Battle of Falkirk Muir.
Dishes include three cheese macaroni, steak pie and king prawn coconut curry.
Bridge 49 Café, Bar & Bistro
Right on the banks of the Union Canal, the Bistro near Linlithgow is a short walk from the spectacular Avon Aqueduct, with stunning canal views from its terrace.
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An ideal place to take a break if you’re on the John Muir Way, the menu includes whole tail scampi, Tennessee smoked BBQ burgers and light spiced vegetable fajita wraps.
WHERE TO STAY
Weedingshall House & Lodges
High quality accommodation in an ideal location in Falkirk, this charming, 19th century house has woodland views of the Forth Valley and lovely walks right on the doorstep.
Looking for something a bit different? The 10 luxury glamping pods also on site are relaxing, cosy spaces with outdoor decking, a play area for kids, fire pits and optional hot tubs.
Wellsfield Farm Holiday Lodges
This working farm in Dunipace offers four 4-star rated self-catering holiday lodges and a mini lodge (family studio) in a peaceful rural setting.
Each lodge – named after the hills you can see from the farm – sleeps four and has its own outdoor BBQ area and private parking space. They’re ideal for year-round glamping in Scotland and the perfect base for exploring.
Carr’s Hill Luxury Safari Tents
Enjoy fresh air and stunning views of the countryside from the comfort of your very own luxury tent, in Denny.
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A home from home, this accommodation includes a private decked veranda, cosy log burning stove, indoor cooking facilities, a king size bedroom and triple bunk bedroom, private showers and a BBQ. Unwind with a glass of something cool while the kids play safely outdoors.
GETTING THERE
FALKIRK is midway between Edinburgh and Glasgow, with excellent rail, bus and motorway links – so travelling there to explore all the area has to offer couldn’t be easier.
Falkirk Grahamston train station is in the town centre, and just 35 minutes from Edinburgh, 50 minutes from Glasgow Queen Street and 15 minutes from Stirling.
There are also trains to Falkirk High, Polmont, Larbert and Camelon stations, as well as regular buses between Falkirk and Edinburgh, Glasgow, Stirling and Fife.
Getting between attractions is super easy too. McGill’s run regular bus routes between Falkirk High station and the Kelpies, and you’ll find lots more helpful information on McGill’s journey planner.
If you’re driving from Edinburgh, take the M9 towards Stirling, and exit at Junction 5 for Falkirk. From Glasgow, take the M80 towards Stirling, exit at Junction 5 on the M876 and follow signs for Falkirk.
