It’s rare to find a town in Scotland with quite so much to see and do as Falkirk. But this little gem and its surrounding area offers plenty to rival even some of the country’s biggest cities.
For anyone who has driven past the famous Kelpies – the equine sculptures that dominate the skyline – there’s enough to keep you busy here for a week ranging from history to Harry Potter and everything in between.
Here’s our tips on how to enjoy one of Scotland’s most interesting and varied spots.
How to get to Falkirk?
Situated between Edinburgh and Glasgow, Falkirk is right in the heart of Central Scotland and so easy to reach by car, bus, train, or even bike.
We used our car to explore a lot of the areas in this blog, with accessible parking found at each location.
What to see and do in Falkirk?
Callendar House
Set in the nationally important historic landscape of Callendar Park which contains a section of the Roman Antonine Wall, this is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Entry to the house is free– you can wander around the parklands, stop in the tearoom for tea and cake (make sure to try their famous scones). And for Outlander fans, you might recognise the kitchen as the one that was used in the Duke of Sandringham’s home.
The Kelpies
A jewel in the Falkirk skyline at 100ft tall, the Kelpies in The Helix are the largest equine sculptures in the world. In Scottish folklore, a kelpie is a dangerous shape shifting water creature that appears on land as a horse. They stand as a monument to Scotland’s horse-powered and industrial heritage.
The Falkirk Wheel
A marvel of engineering, the Falkirk Wheel is the world’s only rotating boat lift. You can book a boat trip which will take around 60 minutes, including an ascent and descent on the wheel.
Rosebank Distillery
After 25 years, Rosebank distillery is reopening its doors in 2024. Known for producing a whisky that often described as the “King of the Lowlands” – it is a must visit for whisky lovers.
Falkirk Trinity Church & Steeple
The first church erected in the town of Falkirk is believed to have given the town its name. Here you’ll find the Tomb of Sir John De Graeme, a lasting memorial to William Wallace’s finest knight who died in the Battle of Falkirk in 1298.
Near the church, you’ll also find the Falkirk Steeple which has dominated the skyline for around 300 years.
Kinneil House and Estate
Make sure to visit Kinneil House and Estate, an impressive country house which has some of the best examples of Renaissance art we’ve seen. The House is surrounded by beautiful woodlands, where you can see the remains of a Roman fortlet and the Antonine Wall.
Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway
Step back in time at this heritage railway. Here, you can travel by steam train on a 10-mile scenic return journey along the Forth Estuary. Another one for our Outlander fans, as the railway was used as a filming location in season one. Check the timetables for the trains, here.
While you’re here, don’t forget to visit Scotland’s largest railway museum.
Blackness Castle
Known as ‘The Ship that never Sailed’, Blackness Castle is an impressive stronghold that sits at the edge of the sea. Walking around the grounds is free, but we’d recommend booking tickets in advance if you’re looking to explore the castle itself. Parking is limited by the castle and will be given to those with tickets to the castle and its grounds, but you can also enjoy a cycle route from nearby Bo’ness. Follow section 6 of the John Muir Way.
Another famous filming location, including the film, Mary Queen of Scots and Outlander.
Where to eat and drink in Falkirk?
For a morning breakfast, brunch, or lunch, don’t look further than The Corner Café in Falkirk town centre. Popular with locals and visitors, the freshly baked cakes are worth stopping in for alone.
If you are looking for something a little fancier for dinner, then Christie’s Scottish Tapas offers a fun Scottish-themed menu throughout the day – including the chance to try Haggis in lots of different ways.
And finally, be sure to stop in the enchanting Lonely Broomstick shop in the town centre if you are fans of Harry Potter. It’s no surprise this shop often wins awards, as it’s a real treasure chest of witchcraft and wizardry. A great place to stock up on every flavoured beans.
Where to stay in Falkirk?
While it’s possible to reach the area from Scotland’s two biggest cities, it’s worth staying in the area if you really want to make the most of everything there is to see and do (including a visit to a distillery!)
Two of our favourite places each offer something a little different. Few people know that it’s possible to stay in the iconic Pineapple building. Built as a summerhouse, the unique building, inspired by the exotic fruit, is nestled within woods, and its own walled garden.
For a more luxury experience, the Macdonald Inchyra Hotel & Spa is a great base to explore the area. With fantastic service, the hotel’s restaurant also has a great reputation.
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That’s our tips for how to make the most of a getaway to Falkirk and the surrounding area. If you have any questions about the area or would like any more tips, please let us know in the comments below or get in touch via Instagram (@TravelTwo_).
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