Nestled in the Forth Valley, Falkirk is a historic industrial city in the Central Lowlands of Scotland. It lies at the meeting point of the Forth and Clyde Canal and the Union Canal and was once a major hub for the iron and steel industries. Remnants of the Roman-built Antonine Wall can still be seen in Falkirk today.
Things to do in Falkirk
One of the town’s most prominent landmarks is the Falkirk Steeple, which was constructed in 1814 on the site of a 17th-century steeple. Rising 43 metres in height, it was designed by David Hamilton in a Classical style and once housed two prison cells. From the upper floors, there are impressive views along the High Street.
On the outskirts of town is Callendar House, which was built in 1877 in a combination of French Renaissance and Scottish Baronial architectural styles. At its heart is a 14th-century tower house that played host to Mary, Queen of Scots, as well as Oliver Cromwell and Queen Victoria. Costumed staff provide insights into the working conditions of the property as you explore its Georgian-inspired rooms.
Don’t miss the Falkirk Wheel, a rotating boat lift connecting the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. Jump aboard the MV Archimedes for a full rotation of the wheel, which accesses the Union Canal 35 metres above the basin below. After experiencing the Roughcastle Tunnel’s award-winning lighting installation, you’ll complete the rotation in reverse.
Getting around Falkirk
Falkirk is around 45 minutes’ drive from Edinburgh and 25 minutes from Edinburgh Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Glasgow Prestwick Airport is just over an hour away. Regular trains connect to the Falkirk Grahamston railway station while the town centre is compact enough to explore on foot.