This is an advertisement for July 2021. Any reshares / edits beyond this date have not been asked or paid for. All thoughts and words are my own.
We visited Falkirk in July 2021. It has been somewhere on my radar for a long time and watching Susan Calman's Secret Scotland during lockdown really cemented my wish to visit. I really wanted to see the Kelpies and take a trip on the Falkirk Wheel and both were definitely worth the trip alone. But what really stood out from my trip was just how much there is to see and do in Falkirk beyond the big attractions. It really is a destination I would recommend to families looking for a short break in the UK.
I would especially recommend Falkirk if you are looking for a budget short break (we found lots of attractions to be free/low-cost), if you are a family who loves the great outdoors or if you would like to bring your dog with you. I will delve more into these options as we move through the post. But first things first, where exactly is Falkirk and how do you get there?
Location / Getting to Falkirk
Falkirk is a large town in the lowlands of Central Scotland. Set right in the middle of Glasgow and Edinburgh (around 20 miles each way), Falkirk is around a 2.5-3 hour drive from Newcastle. It's a pretty easy route, I recommend taking the A697/A68 route which is nice and scenic and takes you past the Cheviots.
Falkirk is also pretty easy to get to by train. Obviously, train fares do fluctuate but when I searched Trainline for a price, I found them to be pretty reasonable with a return ticket for 2 adults and 2 children from Newcastle to Falkirk costing £63 if booked two weeks in advance with a friends and family railcard. It takes around 2 hours 20 minutes to travel to Falkirk by train with a change at Edinburgh. Not bad!
Falkirk naturally lends itself to cycling and walking with e-bikes readily available to hire in multiple locations and public transport is pretty good too - I spotted bus stops outside of all the main attractions.
Now let's jump in and see what Falkirk has to offer......
Falkirk naturally lends itself to cycling and walking with e-bikes readily available to hire in multiple locations and public transport is pretty good too - I spotted bus stops outside of all the main attractions.
Now let's jump in and see what Falkirk has to offer......
50+ Things To Do In Falkirk
This is a long post but it's not comprehensive, please check out Visit Falkirk for more ideas. It is also super important that you check details with each attraction direct before booking / making plans as information may have changed since this post was published. Prices correct as of July 2021.
Hire an e-bike
Falkirk is a fantastic place to enjoy a safe, family bike ride with multiple locations offering e-bike hire and well marked routes between the main attractions. Falkirk is pretty flat too. A popular choice is cycling between the Kelpies and the Falkirk Wheel which is around 4 miles each way.
No booking ahead is required, simply download the Forth Bike App, register & pay and then head over to one of the many e-bike stations and use your phone app to unlock a bike (there is a guide here).
Pricing is very reasonable with a pay-as-you go option available from £2 per ride / £4 per day. If you haven't tried an e-bike before, they're fab! I have one at home and love it. So much less effort than a regular bike and a brilliant way to see the great outdoors.
No booking ahead is required, simply download the Forth Bike App, register & pay and then head over to one of the many e-bike stations and use your phone app to unlock a bike (there is a guide here).
Pricing is very reasonable with a pay-as-you go option available from £2 per ride / £4 per day. If you haven't tried an e-bike before, they're fab! I have one at home and love it. So much less effort than a regular bike and a brilliant way to see the great outdoors.
- Falkirk Wheel
- Helix/Kelpies
- Falkirk High Street
- Bo'ness Union Street
- Callendar Park
Helix Park & The Kelpies
About - Helix Park and The Kelpies are a free-to-visit, dog-friendly attraction in Falkirk. The site is split into two parts with a fantastic adventure playground, pedalo hire and cafe at one side and The Kelpies, canal and another cafe at the other. The two areas are connected by a lovely flat and accessible surfaced walk through a nature reserve (it takes around 10-15 minutes to walk between the two areas).
The Kelpies & Helix Park has two car parks and is accessible by public transport. You do not need to book to visit. During peak periods, I recommend getting there early to be guaranteed a spot. Overflow car parking is available nearby (see website for info). Find out more here.
Helix Park & The Kelpies | Adventure Playground
The Adventure Playground at Helix Park is up there with the best and brilliant for all ages. There are climbing frames, huge slides, swings and a dedicated toddler area too (not pictured). There are picnic tables and you are next to a cafe / toilets. There is lots of green space and it is the kind of place you can easily pitch up and spend a good few hours. Harry and Dee didn't want to leave!
The playground also includes accessible play equipment including a sensory area with wind chimes and ball tumbles plus a roundabout and see saw which can be used by wheelchair users.
The playground also includes accessible play equipment including a sensory area with wind chimes and ball tumbles plus a roundabout and see saw which can be used by wheelchair users.
Helix Park & The Kelpies | Pedalo Hire
The adventure playground is close to a lake where you can hire pedalos.
Helix Park & The Kelpies | Canal Walks
The Kelpies are right by the Forth & Clyde Canal and it is lovely walking along having a little nosey at the boats on one side with the Kelpies on the other. There are 26km of pathways around the area and paths are wide and flat. If you are lucky, you may even spot the loch in use.
Helix Park & The Kelpies | e-Bike Hire
As mentioned earlier in this post, the Kelpies are one of the places you can hire e-bikes in and around Falkirk. The Kelpies are linked to two national cycle routes and part of the John Muir Way.
Helix Park & The Kelpies | Food Trucks
There is a lovely atmosphere at The Kelpies and I loved that there were a couple of pop up food trucks on the day of our visit.
Helix Park & The Kelpies | Kids Splash Zone
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| Credit | Visit Falkirk |
On the day of our visit, the Splash Zone was closed due to Government restrictions but they do plan on re-opening soon. Keep an eye on The Helix website for updates. Located close to the adventure playground, this attraction is free to visit and looks like lots of fun.
Helix Park & The Kelpies | Nature Trails
The walk between the Adventure Playground and the Kelpies takes you through a lovely little nature reserve. The main paths are flat and accessible and dogs on leads are welcome. We discovered a dipping pond, lots of friendly ducks and spotted two wild deer too! Amazing. The main path between the two areas is short but there are little offshoots taking you into woodland walks.
Helix Park & The Kelpies | Plaza Cafe
The Plaza Cafe by the Adventure Playground offers spectacular views of the lagoon and serves a wide range of drinks and snacks.
Helix Park & The Kelpies | Visit The Kelpies
I have seen plenty of photos of The Kelpies in my time but honestly, nothing compares to seeing them in real life. They truly are magnificent. Again, loads of space to run around or sit with a drink from a food truck / the cafe here. You can book onto a guided tour for a small additional charge too.
In the evening, they are lit up and look gorgeous. We didn't get to see this on our last trip but it is definitely something I have put on my future travel list.
The Kelpies are free to visit.
Falkirk Wheel
About - The Falkirk Wheel is another top attraction in Falkirk. Far more than just a wheel though, it is a real hub for activities with a fantastic atmosphere. I left thinking it reminded me of London's Southbank. There's lots going on and it is easily somewhere you can spend a few hours / half a day (or even a full day if you wish to try everything).
Parking is £3.50 per day, there is ample disabled parking and there is a bus stop at the attraction. The Falkirk Wheel can be accessed from the Forth & Clyde pathways. Dogs on leads are welcome on site but only service dogs are permitted on boat trips or inside of the visitor centre.
There are toilets available in the visitor centre.
Find out more about activities at The Falkirk Wheel here.
Falkirk Wheel | Boat Tour
This was one of the main activities I wanted to try and I am so pleased we had the opportunity. We booked onto the original tour which lasts around 75 minutes. We booked in advance online and I would recommend doing the same.
The Falkirk Wheel is a one-of-a-kind wheel and an impressive feat of engineering. As you sit back on the boat, your friendly tour guide will talk you through how it all works and why it is so special. It's really interesting, especially for those interested in engineering and physics.
It's not boring at all and the talk was full of little jokes which had the boat chuckling away.
Wheelchairs and Mobility Scooters are welcome on board but please let them know upon booking so they can provide the correct space.
The Falkirk Wheel is a one-of-a-kind wheel and an impressive feat of engineering. As you sit back on the boat, your friendly tour guide will talk you through how it all works and why it is so special. It's really interesting, especially for those interested in engineering and physics.
It's not boring at all and the talk was full of little jokes which had the boat chuckling away.
Wheelchairs and Mobility Scooters are welcome on board but please let them know upon booking so they can provide the correct space.
The wheel is actually used for real boats as well as tours and it really is a unique experience being lifted into the air and then sailing through the rainbow tunnel. The views are gorgeous too and it was a nice opportunity to sit back, relax and enjoy Scotland.
Our tour took us up into the sky, sailed a little along the canal before turning back and being lowered back onto dry land.
Falkirk Wheel | Mini Golf
There is a mini golf course overlooking the Falkirk Wheel and canal. This can be booked online as an addition to your boat tour or you can pay on arrival (£5 pp).
Falkirk Wheel | Stand Up Paddleboarding
Stand Up Paddleboarding is available to book for those aged 8+, no experience is necessary and the location is lovely. Find out more and book here.
My kids absolutely love waterzorbing and you can try this by the wheel for £7 (book and pay on arrival).
Falkirk Wheel | Bumper Boats
Bumper Boats are available for £7 per person (or £10 for two people per boat). Book and pay on arrival.
Falkirk Wheel | Peddle Boats
For younger ones, mini peddle boats can be hired for £5 per child.
Falkirk Wheel | Splash Zone
Falkirk Wheel | Adventure Playground
Falkirk Wheel | Peddle Boats
For younger ones, mini peddle boats can be hired for £5 per child.
Falkirk Wheel | Splash Zone
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| Credit | Falkirk Wheel |
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| Credit | Falkirk Wheel |
There is a free-to-visit splash zone at the wheel which looked like lots of fun for little ones. Kids can sail mini boats, operate a mini Falkirk Wheel and work the mini canal gates. Cute!
Falkirk Wheel | Adventure Playground
You can just about make out the adventure playground in the background here. It looked great fun with rope bridges, slides, ladders and more. Free to visit with no booking required.
Falkirk Wheel | e-Bike Hire
The Falkirk Wheel is one of the places you can hire an e-Bike. Cycling between here and the Kelpies along the designated route is popular.
Falkirk Wheel | Visitor Centre & Cafe
After our boat tour, we enjoyed a drink from the main cafe. There is indoor and outdoor seating (dogs welcome outdoors) and I recommend sitting outside if you can. You are right underneath the wheel and can watch it in action from a different perspective as other boats travel along the canal.
Falkirk Wheel | Food Trucks
As well as the cafe, there are a couple of food trucks dotted about including a wood-fired pizza van. There is plenty of outdoor seating too.
Falkirk Wheel | Bungee Trampolines
Bungee trampolines are available near the visitor centre for a small additional cost.
Falkirk Wheel | Segway Adventure along the Antonine Wall
Falkirk Wheel | Rough Castle
Rough Castle is one of 16 forts along the Antonine Wall and the one in the best condition. It is free to visit and can be reached via marked footpaths from the Falkirk Wheel. It should take around 15 minutes to get there on foot.
Bungee trampolines are available near the visitor centre for a small additional cost.
Falkirk Wheel | Segway Adventure along the Antonine Wall
For something a little different, how about taking a Segway Tour? Visitors can enjoy a 50 minute Segway Safari leaving from the Falkirk Wheel, venturing along the Union Canal, through woodland trails and along the Antonine Wall at by Rough Castle. Other tours are available including introductory sessions if you aren't too sure. Find out more and book here.
There is no official age limit to ride a Segway but children under 20kg (usually around 7 years old) will find it challenging. The official guidance is that a minimum weight of 45kg is required but Scottish Segway point out that every child is different and if your child is around 7 years old and would like to give it a try, they recommend popping by the centre before booking and having a little demo/chat before booking onto an adventure . A slower-paced, personalised tour often works best with younger ones.
Falkirk Wheel | Rough Castle
Rough Castle is one of 16 forts along the Antonine Wall and the one in the best condition. It is free to visit and can be reached via marked footpaths from the Falkirk Wheel. It should take around 15 minutes to get there on foot.
Callendar House & Park
About - Confession time. Before our trip to Falkirk, I had never actually heard of Callendar House but it turned out to be one of my favourite places to visit across the weekend. It is beautiful and has so much to offer. Even better that it's FREE.
Callendar House has two free car parks and is accessible by public transport. The house and park are accessible for wheelchairs and dogs are welcome in the grounds.
You can just pop into the grounds at any time with no booking required. The house, museum, exhibitions and tearoom are also free to visit but on the day of our visit, we did need to book a time slot ahead online. I suspect this may change as restrictions ease so do check via the link below when making plans.
Find out more here.
Callendar House | Walk in 170 acres of parkland, gardens and a small loch
The grounds around Callendar House are beautiful with ornamental gardens, a small loch and many acres of parkland to enjoy. It is a lovely spot for a walk or picnic. Lots of wildlife too - I spotted a squirrel during our walk.
Callendar House | Roman-themed playground
The playgrounds in and around Falkirk are really brilliant. Callendar House is home to a free-to-visit Roman-themed playground which I loved. We were blessed with a heavy downpour when I dashed out of the car to take these photos but I bet when the weather is a little nicer, it is somewhere you can spend a few hours.
The play equipment was in excellent condition and I would recommend this park to under 10s. The attention to detail is brilliant with lots of little Roman facts dotted about.
There is a cafe, toilets and seating next to the park.
There is a large sand pit too. Pretty cool!
Please do correct me if I am wrong but I think this roundabout has been adapted for wheelchair use. There were several pieces of sensory equipment available too.
Callendar House | Exhibitions & Galleries
We just had a whistle-stop walk around the house (which is free to visit) but really enjoyed the exhibitions and learning about local history. A particular highlight was learning that Irn Bru has some origins in Falkirk and it was nice to learn about The Antonine Wall. Plus it was raining outside when we visited so a nice place to shelter.
Callendar House | Natural Play Trail
Back outside, and there is a new natural play trail to follow around the grounds which looked great.
Callendar House | Tea Room
We booked a table for lunch in the Callendar House Tea Room - what a stunning setting with beautiful views over the grounds. I loved it! Kids are welcome and prices are reasonable. My sandwich / salad combo was £6.50 and lovely and fresh (it was chicken and lemon thyme - delicious) and kids lunches were around the £4.50 mark. Service was speedy and you can pre-book afternoon tea too which looked lovely.
The Milk Barn
About - The Milk Barn is an artisan ice cream parlour offering ice cream and milkshakes made using milk from their very own dairy cows plus various light bites and snacks. There is a pop up kiosk outside too.
Dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating area and there are water bowls and even dog-friendly ice cream. Kids can enjoy the play area (free) and bouncy pillows (small charge) or have a go at 'milking' the cow by the door.
There is a car park on site and cycle racks.
Find out more here.
The ice cream was so delicious and there was plenty of it. Staff were lush too! I would highly recommend as a stop off.
Callendar Estates
About - Callendar Estates is an area close to the town centre, yet feels as if you really have escaped to the countryside. It is free to visit with lovely walks, trails and cycle rides to enjoy along with a good dose of nature.
Free parking (we parked in the main Greenrig Car Park) with customer toilets available in the cafe. Dogs are welcome.
Find out more here.
Callendar Estates | Leisurely stroll around a waymarked trail
There are five waymarked trails to enjoy around the site as well as wider walking routes. We opted for the history trail which is around a 2.5km circular route. The trail was easy to follow and each waymarker included various facts to discover. I would recommend this walk to families who fancy a quick stretch of their legs. The views into the woodland and various wild flowers were lovely.
As well as the Falkirk Wheel, Scottish Segways also operate tours around Canada Wood (located in Callendar Estates) including a special sunset tour which looks lovely. The same weight / age limits apply. Find out more and book here.
Callendar Estates | Cafe with outdoor terrace
Canada Wood Cafe is a dog friendly cafe in the heart of Callendar Estates with indoor seating as well as an outdoor terrace offering panoramic countryside views. Find out more here.
Falkirk Town Centre
Falkirk Town Centre | Restaurants
There is a nice range of restaurants to choose from in Falkirk Town Centre and it's a nice place for an evening out. We opted for Sanam Tandoori which is a traditional, family-owned restaurant in the heart of the town.
We were welcomed like old friends and nothing was too much trouble. Service was friendly and efficient and the staff soon build up a good rapport with us.
Kids meals are available but we decided on a little banquet. It was all delicious and I highly recommend ordering a naan bread which is the size of a tennis racket!
I was tempted to try something else (Korma Madrassi) and it was so good - packed with lots of flavour with a little kick but without being overpowered by heat. I would recommend.
There were lots of families dining here are there is free parking outside.
Falkirk Town Centre | Historic Sites
History fans will enjoy walking around Falkirk with various historical buildings of significance and statues to discover.
Falkirk Town Centre | Heritage Trail
A free blue plaque trail runs through the town and adds extra interest too (find out more here).
A free blue plaque trail runs through the town and adds extra interest too (find out more here).
Falkirk Town Centre | Shopping
We visited during the evening but if you visit during the day, you will find a variety of shops and shopping centres - enough to keep teens happy.
Muiravonside Country Park
Parking is £1 (coin or card) for the day, there are toilets and dogs are welcome (including the farm on a lead with the exception of the two indoor barns).
Find out more here.
Muiravonside Country Park | Nature Trails & Walks
There are lots of walks and trails to enjoy around the country park which is home to an abundance of wildlife. 90 species of bird have been recorded here! You can find walking route maps in the car park.
Muiravonside Country Park | Newparks Farm
Newparks Farm is a free-to-visit farm with no booking required - just walk in during opening hours. It is just next to the car park and you can't miss it.
As far as free farms go, this one is excellent and pretty big. Expect to see a wide range of animals from Highland Cattle and Clydesdale Horses to Sheep, Pigs and Donkeys.
There is also a cheeky Parrot, Llamas, Chickens, Goats.........
It is not a petting farm and you cannot feed the animals but it is nice for a wander around. It is accessible and pushchair / wheelchair friendly too.
The farm is a charity and also re-homes ex-battery hens. Please donate if you can.
Muiravonside Country Park | Play Park, Cafe & Picnic Area
A short walk from the farm is a cafe with a small play area and picnic tables / covered seating.
There is also a dedicated picnic area with lots of seating amongst a natural play trail offering fab countryside views.
Plus an ice cream kiosk in the car park.
Honestly, this place is a lovely little gem. We really enjoyed our time here and it is such a good option for a free / very low cost morning out.
The River Avon Heritage Trail & Avon Aqueduct
From the country park, you can follow the River Avon Heritage Trail which take you past bygone farming relics and offer lovely views of the Aqueduct.
Brunch at Bridge 49 Bistro
I love the little dining pods outside which usually have to be booked in advance.
The bistro offers fab views of the Union Canal and I loved watching the boats tootle past. It is also on a cycling route and lots of visitors arrived by bike. There is a car park on site too. Oh and I spotted a little mooring for a water taxi which looked intriguing.
The staff were so friendly and welcoming and offered tips for places to visit nearby / were full of chat. It was a pleasure to be in their company and somewhere we experienced a real Scottish welcome.
There is a kids menu or you can just stop for coffee and cake or maybe a glass of wine. They offer Scottish Ice Cream too. Yum!
I recommend their eggy bread from the brunch menu. Delicious! We visited for brunch but I think an evening meal here would be equally as special.
Bo'ness & Kinneil Railway & Museum
About - Bo'ness is around a 20 minute drive from Falkirk Town Centre but still falls in the same district if that makes sense.
The site offers free parking and is accessible by public transport / bike. There are customer toilets, a snack kiosk and a picnic area. Wheelchair users can make use of adapted carriages and there are disabled toilets and parking on site too.
Dogs are welcome in the main carriages (not the private compartments) on non-event days. Contact Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway for further information.
Find out more here.
There is a railway museum on site but on the day of our visit, it was closed due to Government restrictions. Hopefully it will be back open soon. I was pleasantly surprised to see a little model railway though. There were lots of hidden objects to spot - kind of like a real life Where's Wally. The attention to detail was fantastic.
We booked onto a steam train journey on the heritage railway which takes around 75 minutes (round trip). It was such a nice way to see some of the Scottish countryside, along the Forth Estuary and over the Avon Viaduct. I loved giving passers by a little wave as we passed.
The younger kids on the platform were SO excited to be riding on 'Thomas' and the staff and volunteers really go out of their way to make the trip special. We picked up a few snacks and drinks from the station kiosk for our journey (they were reasonably priced). You can alight half way through the journey and watch the engine turn around if you wish, this is a fab photo opportunity.
On the day of our visit, we were able to book a table for up to 4 people for just £20 which I think is an absolute steal!
Bo'ness Motor Museum
About - Bo'ness Motor Museum is a few minutes along the road from Bo'ness railway and one of the highlights from our trip. It is so much more than a motor museum and packed with film and TV memorabilia from a private collection.
In the summer months, the museum is open on weekends only and a family ticket is £20. There are customer toilets available and the museum has a private car park and is accessible by public transport and bike.
Find out more here.
I really didn't know what to expect from this museum but it turned out to be fantastic. It is fairly small and they do cram a lot it but you can walk around as many times as you like. We walked around three times and I am sure we probably missed a few items still. It's one of those places where you don't know where to look.
I don't think this museum will be everyone's cup of tea but as a family who really has a keen interest in TV and Film, we thoroughly enjoyed it. It was like having access to a very special private collection.
There are far too many highlights to list but we enjoyed the various film props, especially from Pixar and Wallace and Gromit.
It was brilliant to see the certificates for authenticity alongside the props and vehicles and crazy to think that the items on display were the exact ones we had seen on screen.
The museum really specialises in James Bond cars and props. And long time readers may know that over the years, Steve has watched and reviewed every James Bond film so we do have a keen interest in this kind of thing.
Harry was over the moon to see some Doctor Who props too - it is his dream to be a Doctor Who showrunner one day so this was right up his street. I find it crazy that he was able to say exactly which episode each prop was from - they all look the same to me!!
Below is one of the actual rocket launchers used in a Bond film. I said to Steve that it looked a bit rubbish up close but the boys insist I am wrong.
I have rambled a little in this section but it's because we've never been to a museum like this before. It's a real gem. We probably only spent 30-40 minutes here but it did leave a lasting impression.
Bo'ness Town Centre
About - Whilst in Bo'ness, why not take a walk around the unique shops and delis? Highlights include Forget Me Not (vintage clothes shop), Sweets & Things (traditional sweet shop), Paper Ribbons (cards, gifts and homeware) and Mini Couture (children's clothes shop).
We passed McMoos Ice Cream Parlour between the railway and the museum and it looked like a nice place to stop for a treat.
Hire an e-bike from Bo'ness Union Street
You can cycle to Blackness Castle along John Muir Way from Bo'ness. Hire an e-Bike from Bo'ness Union Street and follow the coastline for approximately 4.3 miles.
Kinneil House & Estate
About - Kinneil House, Estate and Grounds are free to visit and filled with history. Visitors can enjoy walks around the grounds, visiting the museum and house and exploring the woodland, ponds and wildlife. The attraction is dog friendly and partially accessible for wheelchair users.
Find out more here.
Visit The Bridgeness Slab
About - A Roman Distance Marker was found in Bo'ness in 1868. You can view the original in a museum in Edinburgh but there is a replica at Kinnigars Park.
Find out more here.
Visit The Hippodrome Cinema
About - The Hippodrome is Scotland's oldest cinema and it has been beautifully restored. I just love the art deco style. It looks beautiful! As well as regular screenings, the cinema runs special events throughout the year including special screenings for children every Saturday morning.
Find out more here.
Kinneil Nature Reserve
About - A former colliery site, Kinneil Nature Reserve is a nice place to enjoy a walk with views of the coastline. It is accessible for wheelchairs and dog-friendly too.
Find out more here.
Visit Blackness Castle
About - Blackness is around 4 miles along the coast from Bo'ness. It is a small charming coastal village accessible by car (there are a couple of small car parks in the village and off street parking as you approach), bus, foot or bike. I would recommend visiting by public transport / walking or bike if you can due to limited parking. 
Blackness Castle dominated the coastline here. This 15th Century Castle is shaped like a ship and known as 'The Ship Who Never Sailed'. The castle is managed by Historic Scotland and there is an admission charge for non-members (please check if you need to book ahead). Until 17 August, admission is free for all children as part of the 'Get Into Summer' campaign. Free admission may be also be applicable for English Heritage Members but again, check ahead with venue for details.
Dogs are welcome!
You can view the castle from the beach without paying admission as we did.
Find out more here.
Visit Blackness Beach
About - If you climb over the hill and walk around Blackness Castle, you will find a sandy beach but we really enjoyed the beach between the village and the castle which was absolutely filled with treasures and brilliant for exploring.
We found so many interesting shells, stones and even maybe some bones??? The kids loved it, it was a free activity and interesting too. There is another beach to the other side of the village too which was larger.
I cannot find any official information online but there were dogs walking on the beach during our visit so I assume dogs are allowed.
There is a takeaway kiosk at The Potted Lobster if you wish to enjoy drinks / fish and chips on the beach.
Dine at The Lobster Pot, Blackness
The Lobster Pot is dog-friendly. They specialise in seafood but do have some good veggie / non-seafood options and a kids menu too (click the link below to browse menus).
Find out more here.
I honestly loved this pub. I would go as far as to say it is one of the best pubs we have been to. It has a real community feel but non-locals are made to feel very welcome too - not an easy balance.
The decor is quirky and there is loads to look at as you wait for your food.
But above all else, the food was absolutely delicious and the staff were so friendly. My lobster was just perfect and everything had that homemade touch. 10/10 from us. I would definitely recommend booking ahead of your visit as it can get busy.
Dunmore Pineapple
About - Don't miss this OTT summer house built in the shape of a Pineapple. The walled garden is a lovely spot for a walk and this is a dog-friendly attraction.
Find out more here.
Falkirk Tunnel
About - The Falkirk Tunnel was built over 200 years ago and was originally used to transport coal. You can walk, cycle or sail through the tunnel now and the tunnel is now illuminated with colourful lights to show off the architecture. Visitors can enjoy a 1.5 circular walk from the town centre, along the canal and through the tunnel (map in the link below). The tunnel is free to visit at any time and dog friendly.
Find out more here.
Wee Heroes Superhero Laser Tag
About - This looks so cool! The UK's first Superhero themed laser tag arena.
Find out more here
Polmonthill Snowsports Centre
About - This centre boasts a 100m artificial ski slope and a 20m nursery slope. Lessons are available for ages 3+ if you fancy trying something a little different / getting your ski fix without travelling abroad.
Find out more here
Zetland Park Pump Track & Park
A brand new pump track for cyclists has just opened alongside an inclusive play area with play equipment for all children including a sensory garden and play equipment for wheelchair users (please note, the wheelchair swing requires a RADAR key).
Find out more here.
Other Rainy Day Options
- Divergent Games Escape Rooms
- Game Over Escape Rooms
- Xtreme Karting
- School of Witchcraft & Potions
- Air Thrill Falkirk
- The Mariner Leisure Centre Swimming Pool
- Wonder World Soft Play
Dog-friendly Falkirk
I have tried to mention if a particular attraction is dog-friendly above, but here is a handy list (it isn't a comprehensive list and more options are available - this is just a guide ):
Dog-friendly activities:
- Antonine Wall
- Bo'ness & Kinneil Railway
- Callander House Gardens
- Dollar Park
- The Kelpies and Helix Park
- Kinneil Estate and Nature Reserve
- Muiravonside Country Park
- The Dunmore Pineapple
- The Falkirk Wheel (not all activities)
- The John Muir Way
- Zetland Park
Dog-friendly restaurants:
- Avonside Inn
- Bridge 49 (outside area)
- Cafe at Canada Wood
- Canalside Pub and Grill
- Plaza Cafe at The Helix
- The Acoustic Cafe
- The Shore
- Carronshore
Dog-friendly accommodation:
- Airth Castle Hotel
- Antonine Wall Cottages
- Black Prince Narrowboat Holidays (Falkirk)
- Graeme Hotel
- Cladhan Hotel
- Rosie's B&B
- Spoke 'n;Boot
- Travelodge Falkirk
- Ardtalla B&B
- Kesrebrock Cabins
- Weedingshall Lodges
Getting Around Falkirk
Cycling - Falkirk really is one of the best places to cycle around Falkirk. You can bring your own bike or hiring options are readily available. Find out more here.
Walking - Falkirk is the proud winner of 'Britain's Best Walking Neighbourhood'. Find out more here.
Driving - I found driving in and around Falkirk to be pretty easy with many places offering free parking.
Public Transport - First Bus Family Ticket for one day's unlimited travel across Scotland (£14.50 for two adults and up to two children. Under 5s travel for free). Find out more here.
Canals - There are 35 miles of canals to navigate in and around Falkirk. Why not hire a boat? There are a few options here.
Where to Stay in Falkirk
There are lots of different options for staying in Falkirk. Obviously, I haven't tried them all, but here are the recommendations from Visit Falkirk which are a good place to start:
- Recommended Hotels in Falkirk
- Recommended B&Bs in Falkirk
- Recommended Cottages and Lodges in Falkirk
- Recommended Camping, Glamping and Caravan Sites in Falkirk
- Recommended Canal Barge Hire in Falkirk
Later this summer we have hired an AirBnB in Rumbling Bridge which is just 17 miles from Falkirk. I think it was a bit of a bargain so it may be worth a look. You can read about it and check prices here.
Leapark Hotel
We stayed in Leapark Hotel for one evening. Prices are available from around £80 per night bed and breakfast for a family room which I thought was reasonable.
I found the hotel to be very traditional in style and some areas were a little dated but the amount of space we had and the friendly welcome more than made up for this.
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| Leapark Garden Area |
The family rooms here are huge with a bathroom, separate living area with sofas, a TV, mini fridge and dressing table plus a bedroom with a double bed, two single beds, another dressing table and TV plus plenty of storage.
If you prioritise space and would like a seperate living area, I would definitely recommend here. Breakfast was lovely too and the hotel offers free parking and has a large bar and restaurant on site. The location was good (everywhere was a short drive away) and we had a very good night's sleep. Accessible rooms are available.
We were only supposed to stay over for one night but I spotted a £29 room at Premier Inn Central so could not resist extending our stay. This Premier Inn offers interconnecting rooms which is good to know if you are a family of 5 like us and need to book two rooms.
You can also expect free on-site parking, complimentary WiFi, air conditioning, accessible rooms and lovely views over the canal. There is a Beefeater pub joined onto the hotel but we didn't try it. We decided to buy breakfast from Greggs along the street using click and collect instead. Again, this hotel was well located and everything was within a short drive.
Well done for making it to the end of this post. I hope you can see just how much we fell in love with Falkirk and were blown away with just how much there is to do here. I know it is a place we will return to and recommend time and time again over the years. It's brilliant!
Did you have time to sleep during your holiday? You packed so much in haha. Very good report and given me some great ideas, cheers
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