Old Falkirk
Falkirk was at the centre of Scotland's Industrial Revolution and the town's wealth grew significantly during the period. This increased affluence was reflected in the construction of a great many impressive and beautiful buildings, most of which still stand to this day. Falkirk's architecture saw it top the poll of Scotland's most beautiful towns in 2011.
The best way to fully appreciate Falkirk's beauty is with a stroll through the town centre. The Steeple on the High Street is a good place to start. From here you can easily visit Falkirk Old Church, known as the ‘Faw Kirk', from which the town is believed to take its name. The church's graveyard holds some of Scotland's most famous sons, including many of William Wallace's companions.
Falkirk Town Hall, just down the road, is another building worth visiting. For those looking for a bit of night-time entertainment, it also has an extensive programme of comedy, theatre and music throughout the year.
Those interested in Britain's industrial heritage will be happy to learn that the Carron Ironworks, on the outskirts of the town, were where James Watt cast the first beams for his early steam engine designs that changed the world forever. The ironworks are no longer operational but are still worth a visit and sit in a wonderful position on the banks of the River Carron.
Antonine Wall
If your curiosity stretches back a bit further, Falkirk is the ideal place from which to visit the Antonine Wall. Built by the Romans in 142 AD, the wall was the forerunner for Hadrian's Wall and was built to keep marauding Scots out of Roman Britain. Much of the wall still survives and it is an excellent destination for a family day trip. A walk along its sloping route is a truly unique holiday experience.
The Helix
Opened in 2014, The Helix was part of a major regeneration of the Falkirk area and includes large areas of green space, a lagoon, wetlands, a splash play area and outdoor event space. Exploring its 350 hectares is a great way to spend the day.
The jewel in the Helix's crown is The Kelpies. Standing 30m tall, they are the world's largest equine sculptures and a real sight to behold. You will be fascinated by a tour within these incredible beasts, to learn all about their construction and the inspiration for building them. Stop off at the Kelpie visitor centre & gift shop, to pick up a memento of your visit.
Also within the Helix's grounds is the Falkirk Wheel. Watch in awe as the world's first rotating boatlift transports huge watercraft from the Forth and Clyde to the Union Canal. The addition of a visitor centre that offers boat trips around the wheel has made the attraction a must-visit. If you're in need of some peaceful reflection, leave the kids at the play area and go and wander among the 100 acres of woodlands that surround the site.
Glasgow and Edinburgh
Another reason to pick one of our fabulous Falkirk hotels is the freedom it gives you to explore this part of the world. Falkirk is almost equidistant from Scotland's two biggest cities and, with excellent transport links, offers a great base from which to visit both. However, with so much to do in and around Falkirk itself, you may find you simply don't have the time.
