The Helix, Grangemouth, Falkirk FK2 7ZT
The Helix: Home of The Kelpies Park is a stunning attraction located in Grangemouth, Scotland. As a tourist, this is a must-visit destination, offering an incredible experience of art, culture, and nature. Here is everything you need to know about The Helix and why you should add it to your travel itinerary.
The Helix is a 350-hectare parkland that boasts of over 27 km of cycling and walking paths, two large lochs, and an adventure zone for children. The parkland is home to two iconic 30-meter tall sculptures called The Kelpies. These sculptures are modeled after the mythical water horses known as Kelpies, which are said to lure people to their doom. The sculptures represent the power of the horse in Scottish history and are a nod to the industrial past of the Falkirk area.
The Kelpies sculptures are made of over 300 tons of steel and took over eight years to complete. The intricate detail of the sculptures is breathtaking and is best experienced up close. Visitors can walk around the base of the sculptures, take a guided tour, or even ride a boat tour around them. The Kelpies also light up at night, making them a stunning sight to behold.
Apart from The Kelpies, The Helix offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. The parkland has a vast network of paths that are perfect for cycling, jogging, and walking. The paths offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside and are well-maintained. The park also has a wetland boardwalk that allows visitors to see a variety of wetland birds and plants up close.
For children, The Helix has a fantastic adventure zone that includes a giant rope play area, water play, and a sand pit. The adventure zone is designed to keep kids entertained for hours and is completely free. The park also has a visitor center that offers information about the history of The Kelpies and the surrounding area. The visitor center also has a café that serves a variety of refreshments and snacks.
The Helix is easily accessible by public transport or car. The park has ample parking space and is located just a short drive from Edinburgh and Glasgow. The park is open year-round and is free to enter.
In conclusion, The Helix: Home of The Kelpies Park is a fantastic attraction that offers visitors a unique blend of art, culture, and nature. The parkland is well-maintained, and the activities available are sure to keep visitors of all ages entertained. The Kelpies sculptures are a sight to behold, and the surrounding countryside is breathtaking. If you are planning a trip to Scotland, make sure to add The Helix to your travel itinerary.
The Helix: Home of The Kelpies is an iconic destination in Scotland that attracts tourists from all over the world. The Kelpies are two 30-meter high horse sculptures that have become the symbol of Falkirk and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the area. But there’s much more to The Helix than just the Kelpies. In this article, we’ll explore the best places and things to do nearby The Helix from a tourist perspective.
1. Falkirk Wheel
The Falkirk Wheel is a rotating boat lift that connects the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. It’s a masterpiece of engineering and a unique experience for visitors. The wheel lifts boats up to a height of 24 meters and is a great way to see the surrounding countryside from a different perspective.
2. Callendar House
Callendar House is a historic house that dates back to the 14th century. It’s located in Falkirk and offers visitors a glimpse into the life of Scottish aristocracy. The house has been beautifully restored and is home to a museum that showcases the history of the area.
3. The John Muir Way
The John Muir Way is a long-distance walking trail that stretches 215 kilometers from Helensburgh to Dunbar. The trail passes through The Helix and offers visitors stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It’s a great way to explore the area and get some exercise at the same time.
4. Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway
The Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway is a heritage railway that runs steam and diesel trains between Bo’ness and Manuel. The railway passes through some beautiful countryside and offers visitors a glimpse into the golden age of steam travel.
5. The Pineapple
The Pineapple is an eccentric building that was built in the 18th century by the Earl of Dunmore. It’s located near Airth and is a must-see for anyone interested in architecture. The building is shaped like a giant pineapple and is now used as a holiday home.
6. The Antonine Wall
The Antonine Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage site that runs across central Scotland. It was built by the Romans in the 2nd century AD and marks the northernmost frontier of the Roman Empire. The wall passes through Falkirk and is a fascinating piece of history to explore.
7. The Falkirk Tunnel
The Falkirk Tunnel is a canal tunnel that runs for 631 meters underneath the town of Falkirk. It was built in the 1820s and is an impressive feat of engineering. Visitors can take a boat trip through the tunnel and learn about its history.
8. The Falkirk Stadium
The Falkirk Stadium is home to Falkirk Football Club and is a modern, state-of-the-art sports stadium. Visitors can attend a match and soak up the atmosphere of Scottish football.
In conclusion, The Helix: Home of The Kelpies is a fantastic destination for tourists, with plenty of things to see and do in the surrounding area. From historic houses and railways to walking trails and canals, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just want to enjoy the beautiful Scottish countryside, The Helix has it all.
| Thursday | 9:30 am–4 pm |
|---|---|
| Friday | 9:30 am–4 pm |
| Saturday | 9:30 am–4 pm |
| Sunday | 9:30 am–4 pm |
| Monday | 9:30 am–4 pm |
| Tuesday | 9:30 am–4 pm |
| Wednesday | 9:30 am–4 pm |
You may also like