Helix Park is home to the magnificent Kelpies, the largest equine sculptures globally. Positioned between Falkirk and Grangemouth, the park was designed as a community space for the Falkirk region, inviting not only locals but also visitors from around the world to experience its charm and the impressive Kelpies, ensuring a top-notch visitor experience.
Towering at 100 feet and each weighing over 300 tons, the enchanting Kelpies exemplify remarkable artistry and engineering prowess. Crafted by artist Andy Scott, these sculptures have become landmarks on the landscape, inspired by historical Clydesdale horses named Duke and Baron. The Kelpies symbolize the heritage of Scotland’s heavy horse, which played a vital role in the economy and industry, transporting goods through wagons, plows, barges, and ships that influenced Falkirk’s geography.
The name “Kelpies” is drawn from Scottish folklore, referring to mythical creatures that transform and embody the strength of a hundred horses. This reflects not only the area’s rich historical transformations but also the resilience of its communities and landscape, including its extensive network of inland waterways. Visitors are welcome to explore The Helix, the Home of the Kelpies, free of charge all year round. The surrounding environment is designed for accessibility, allowing everyone to appreciate these monumental sculptures up close. Unique tours inside a Kelpie offer insights into their innovative engineering, and the visitor center features a gift shop, café, and more information about the Kelpies.
The Helix is interconnected with Falkirk’s praised path network, consisting of 500 km of walkways ideal for both walking and cycling, perfect for discovering local attractions. The Heart of Falkirk Trail, a family-friendly circular path measuring over 10 miles, guides visitors from The Helix and Kelpies to notable spots including Rosebank Distillery, The Falkirk Wheel, and Callendar House and Park. Visitors can find additional details about this trail online, along with information about two National Cycle Routes and the John Muir Way, making The Helix an exceptional starting point for exploring Falkirk’s rich history and wildlife.
Helix Park also boasts an adventure play area equipped for accessibility, splash water fountains, expansive parklands, woodlands, wetlands, and boardwalks, alongside a serene lagoon featuring a cozy café. For those visiting, accessibility information is available online.
Parking Information:
A car park located near the main entrance is accessible 24/7, while The Kelpies car park is operating from 8 AM to 8 PM throughout the year, allowing late access until 10 PM from April to October. Seasonal fees apply to this parking lot. Blue badge parking is complimentary and available but limited at the visitor center. Additionally, free parking can be found at Falkirk Stadium, a mere two-minute walk from Helix Park, except during match days of Falkirk Football Club—it’s wise to check the fixture list ahead of your visit.
Visitor Centre Hours:
The Visitor Centre operates daily from 9 AM to 4 PM all year, extending hours to 5 PM from April to October. The Hide, located by the lagoon, offers hours from 11 AM to 3 PM during local school holidays and weekends from April to October.
Toilet Facilities:
Toilets are available at The Hide throughout the week starting from 9 AM, alongside the Kelpies car park, which is consistently open during operational hours.
