Kelpies in Scotland 2023-2024
The biggest equine sculpture in the world
Best time: all year round
Kelpies is an impressive 100-ft (30-m) sculpture of horse heads located in Helix Park, between the towns of Falkirk and Grangemouth in Scotland. Opened in April 2014, the monument pays tribute to Scotland’s folklore and horse-powered industrial heritage. Kelpie, which derives from the Gaelic word "cailpeach," is a mystic creature, which often appears in the shape of a horse and haunts rivers and lakes.
The magical Kelpies, which weigh about 300 tonnes, were created by Andy Scott, a Scottish figurative sculptor, who is also known for his works in Glasgow Harbour and in Cumbernauld. The Kelpies, which were modeled after famous Scottish Clydesdale horses, have become a symbol of Falkirk, attracting crowds of tourists.
The Kelpies monument in Helix park is free and open all year round. Visitors can even go on a tour inside a Kelpie sculpture to get an idea of how it was constructed. The Falkirk area also boasts 300 mi (500 km) of trails for walking and cycling. Helix also hosts an adventure play park, with splash play fountains and various activities available in the summer.
Practical info
When can I visit the Kelpies in Scotland?
You can visit the Kelpies monument in Helix Park any time of the year as it is open and free for everyone. The sculpture's perfect times to admire are during sunrise and sunset. It is recommended to check the schedule before planning your visit to the interiors of the bronze horses.
Where is Helix Park located?
Helix Park, where you can find the Kelpies sculpture, is situated between Falkirk and Grangemouth, Scotland. It's just a 40-minute car ride from Scotland's capital, Edinburgh, while it will take approximately one hour from Glasgow. Transportation is convenient since bus and train services are available, such as Falkirk High and Falkirk Grahamston railway stations that are situated near the park.
What is the significance of Kelpies in Scottish folklore?
The Kelpies, within Scottish Folklore, are highly regarded mythological creatures. They are known to take different forms, primarily as shape-shifting water spirits living in rivers and streams. These creatures have a mischievous nature, often tricking people, and commonly appear in the form of a horse. The Kelpies monument signifies the importance of horses in Scotland's history and mythology, as they played a major role in the country's evolution during the industrial revolution.
Are there any additional attractions in Helix Park besides the Kelpies?
Aside from the Kelpies, Helix Park offers other amenities to visitors. Some of these include an adventure play park, cycle hire, pedal boats, and several others. Additionally, the park boasts of 27 kilometers of trails perfect for walking, running, or cycling, offering a breathtaking view of The Kelpies and its surrounding environment. Visitors can spend a full day in the park with friends and family, having a picnic or enjoying outdoor recreational activities.
Who designed and created the Kelpies monument in Helix Park?
Andy Scott, the Scottish artist, designed and constructed the Kelpies monument, which now stands gracefully in Helix Park. The sculpture is made of 600 tons of steel, located on the landscaped park, near the Forth and Clyde Canal. Andy Scott created the Kelpies out of his fascination with the horse's critical role in Scottish history and mythology.
