The Kelpies are two 30-metre-high, roughly 300-tonne steel horse-head sculptures standing in The Helix park between Falkirk and Grangemouth, created by artist Andy Scott and unveiled in 2014. Among the largest equine sculptures in the world, they take their name from the kelpie, a shape-shifting water horse of Scottish myth, but were modelled on real Clydesdale draught horses (Duke and Baron) to honour the working horses that powered Scotland's industry and canals. Free to visit around the clock and lit from dusk to dawn, they form the eastern gateway to the Forth & Clyde Canal. In 2026 the site again hosts events such as June's Kelpies Live concerts and night-time 5K runs, rewarding both day and evening visits.
The sheer 30 m / 300-tonne scale, with the two heads modelled on the Clydesdales Duke and Baron facing each other
A stainless-steel skin that catches daylight and glows under coloured lighting after dark
The Kelpies Tour — the only way to step inside a sculpture and look up through its steel structure
The dusk-to-dawn light show, a favourite for night photography
The surrounding Helix park, canal-side paths, and the visitor centre's café and gift shop
Good to know
SeasonScottish weather is changeable and windy even in summer; bring a waterproof and windproof layer, and expect it to feel cooler out on the open park.
RulesGoing inside is only possible on the paid guided tour, and pre-booking is advised. Tickets are non-refundable but can be transferred to another time, so book once your plans are firm.
RulesBy public transport it's a 10–15 minute bus (First Bus No. 2) or taxi from Falkirk High or Falkirk Grahamston stations; Scottish buses take contactless cards, so no exact change is needed.
MannersDogs are not allowed on the tour (though they're welcome on park walks); be considerate of other visitors and events when using tripods or flash at night.
SafetyThere is water and canal edging nearby—watch children and your footing after dark, and the free Helix car park is the safer evening choice over the paid one near the sculptures.
CautionBook Edinburgh day tours through reputable operators (the official site, Viator, etc.) and be wary of anyone posing as a 'free guide' and asking for tips on site.
Practical info
It's about 26 miles from Edinburgh, a 5-minute drive from M9 Junction 5 (sat-nav postcode FK2 7ZT), or reachable by bus or taxi from Falkirk High and Falkirk Grahamston stations. The sculptures are free and open 24/7, but visitor-centre hours, tour times and prices vary by season—check the official site for the latest before you go.
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