The Kelpies are one of Scotland's most striking modern landmarks, standing proudly in Helix Park, Falkirk. These 30-metre-tall horse-head sculptures, created by Scottish sculptor Andy Scott, celebrate the nation's industrial heritage and deep connection to working horses.
Inspired by mythical water spirits from Scottish folklore, they represent the powerful draft horses that once pulled barges along Scotland's canals, playing a vital role in the country's development.
Officially unveiled in 2014, The Kelpies have quickly become one of Scotland's most photographed attractions.
The sculptures were designed to symbolise the strength and endurance of Scotland's working horses. That operated along the Forth and Clyde Canal, which runs beside Helix Park. This historic canal once linked the Firth of Forth with the Firth of Clyde, forming a key route during Scotland's industrial era.
Each structure weighs over 300 tonnes and is built from stainless steel panels supported by a steel framework. Their reflective surfaces change dramatically with the light and weather, giving The Kelpies a different character throughout the day.
The centrepiece of Helix Park, a large green space offering walking and cycling routes, canal-side paths, and family-friendly attractions.
Visitors will find:
A visitor centre near The Kelpies provides information about their creation, along with a café, toilets, and a gift shop.
Yes — guided tours are available and allow visitors to enter one of the sculptures. These tours provide fascinating insight into the design, engineering, and meaning behind The Kelpies and come highly recommended.
Yes, entry is free.
However:
The Kelpies are easy to reach and within an hours drive from Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Stirling. Clear signage directs visitors from the M9 and surrounding routes.
After dark, colourful lighting illuminates The Kelpies, creating a dramatic and unforgettable sight. Seeing them at night is one of the highlights of a visit and is well worth timing your trip for.
Absolutely. Whether you’re interested in modern sculpture, Scottish history, or simply looking for a unique stop while travelling through central Scotland, The Kelpies make a must-visit attraction.
They stand 30 metres (98 feet) tall, making them among the largest equine sculptures in the world. Each sculpture weighs over 300 tonnes and uses stainless steel panels supported by a steel framework.
The Kelpies are located in Helix Park, Falkirk, in central Scotland. They sit beside the Forth and Clyde Canal, roughly halfway between Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Yes, visiting is free. There is no charge to walk around the sculptures or explore Helix Park. Parking fees do apply at the main car park near the visitor centre.
Yes, guided tours are available and allow visitors to go inside one of the sculptures. Tours provide insight into the design, engineering, and symbolism of The Kelpies and are a popular part of the visitor experience.
Scottish sculptor Andy Scott designed The Kelpies. He is also known for other major works, including the Duke of Wellington statue in Glasgow and the Heavy Horse sculptures in Edinburgh.
Construction of The Kelpies finished in 2013, with the sculptures officially unveiled to the public in 2014 as part of the wider Helix regeneration project.
Yes, changing coloured lights illuminate The Kelpies at night, creating a dramatic and memorable sight.
Most visitors spend 1–2 hours at The Kelpies, allowing time to walk around the sculptures, explore Helix Park, and visit the café or visitor centre. Which is open daily from 9am to 5pm.
Yes, Helix Park is very family-friendly, with walking paths, play areas, picnic spots, and open spaces that make it ideal for visitors of all ages.
