Overview
The Kelpies are 30-meter-high horse-head sculptures depicting horse heads, part of a larger plan to regenerate the region. They represent the transformation of the local landscape by celebrating the horse's role in Scotland's industrial past.
The Kelpies are significant as they symbolize the industrial heritage of the area and are iconic representations of Scotland's history and culture.
Location
Address
Coordinates: 56.01912749683123, -3.755347287355757
Neighborhood: Helix Park
Coordinates
56.019127, -3.755347
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning or late afternoon
Fewer crowds, better lighting for photos
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild to warm
- • Spring blooms
- • Fewer crowds
summer
Warm to hot
- • Extended daylight hours
- • Outdoor events
autumn
Cooling down, crisp air
- • Fall foliage
- • Cooler weather
winter
Cold, potentially snowy
- • Holiday lights
- • Winter events
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets in advance for special events
- Check weather forecast
- Wear comfortable shoes
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate (some walking involved)
- • Be cautious of uneven terrain around the sculptures
- • Hydrate and protect yourself from the sun in summer
Medical facilities: First aid available on-site, but for serious issues, nearby hospitals are available
Payment Information
Accepted
Credit/debit cards, Cash
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, comfortable clothing, Layered clothing for changing weather, sturdy walking shoes, Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, Inappropriate or offensive clothing
Booking Tips
- • At least a few days in advance for peak season, same-day for off-season
- • Official website or authorized ticket vendors
- • Varies by ticket type, generally 24-48 hours in advance
- • Available for special events and tours
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
The Kelpies & Helix Park
Size: 45 MB
Features: Park map, Event schedule, Audio guide, Ticket purchase
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Nearby cafes and restaurants
Charging Stations: Visitor center, some outdoor seating areas
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
Distance: 40 km
Travel Time: 45 minutes by car
From City Center
Distance: 35 km from Edinburgh, 15 km from Glasgow
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: The Kelpies are a source of local pride, representing the area's industrial heritage and serving as a gathering place for community events
Historical Significance: The sculptures honor the horse's role in the region's industrial past, particularly in the canals and transportation history
Insider Tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and the best photo opportunities
- Check the schedule for special events and light shows
- Explore the nearby towns and countryside for a full Scottish experience
Local Recommendations
- • Visit the nearby Falkirk Wheel for another iconic engineering marvel
- • Try local Scottish cuisine at nearby restaurants and cafes
- • Explore Helix Park's walking and biking trails
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Scottish Gaelic (in some cases)
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
The Kelpies Viewing Area
Best Time: Golden hour (sunrise or sunset)
Tips: Low angle shots to emphasize the grandeur of the sculptures, wide-angle lens for full capture
Result: Stunning photos of The Kelpies with the surrounding landscape
Falkirk Wheel
Best Time: Daytime with clear skies
Tips: Capture the unique engineering of the Falkirk Wheel from various angles
Result: Impressive photos of the Falkirk Wheel and its surroundings
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Falkirk Wheel
Distance: 2 km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Landmark
Callendar House
Distance: 4 km
Walking: 50 min
Type: Museum
Wallace Monument
Distance: 10 km
Walking: 2 hours
Type: Landmark
Reviews
Based on 10,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience"
- "Combine your visit with the Falkirk Wheel"
- "Check the schedule for special events and light shows"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (17)
Stirling Castle, Whisky & Kelpies Tour starting Edinburgh
Full Day Trip: The Kelpies, Loch Lomond, and The Trossachs
Private Tour Loch Lomond Stirling and the Kelpies from Glasgow
Kelpies, Falkirk Wheel and Glasgow City Day Tour
Kelpies, Loch Lomond and Stirling Castle, Private Day Tour
Shore Excursion from Greenock: Glasgow, Kelpies, Falkirk Wheel
Highland Cows, Glasgow Cathedral, Murals, Kelpies Half Day Tour
Highland Cows, Walk Alpacas, Scottish Wildlife Centre and Kelpies
Full-Day Guided Tour Loch Lomond, The Kelpies & A Distillery
Edinburgh:5-Day Isle of Skye, Inverness & Loch Ness Tour w/Hostel
Cruise on Loch Lomond, Kelpies and Stirling Castle Private Tour
Ultimate Outlander Day Tour
Private Shore Excursion-Castles, Highland Coos and Whisky Tasting
Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle, Distillery Private Tour
2-Day Private Loch Ness Tour - in Luxury Mercedes Minivan
Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands Private Luxury Day Tour
Private Glenfinnan and Highlands Experience from Edinburgh
Quick Info
Available Tours
134
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
10,000
Adult Entry
Free (general access to The Kelpies and Helix Park), Special events and tours vary