The Kelpies
Sightseeing attraction | Falkirk | Scotland | United Kingdom
Modern attractions in Scotland
The Kelpies in Falkirk, Scotland, are one of the most impressive modern attractions in Great Britain and a masterpiece of contemporary art and engineering. These monumental sculptures, created by Scottish artist Andy Scott, were unveiled in 2013 and stand in the Helix Park, an ambitious landscaping project near the town of Falkirk. Standing at 30 meters high each, the Kelpies are the largest horse sculptures in the world and a symbol of Scotland's industrial past and mythological culture. They attract hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, fascinated by their size, beauty, and significance.
Art and engineering in Falkirk
The Kelpies are two huge horse heads made of stainless steel, rising majestically from the ground and depicted in different poses – one with its head raised, the other slightly lowered as if drinking. Their name is derived from the "Kelpies" of Scottish folklore, mythical water horses said to inhabit rivers and lakes, both fascinating and dangerous. Andy Scott drew inspiration not only from mythology but also from the powerful Clydesdale horses that once played a central role in Scottish industry. These workhorses pulled barges along the canals and were the backbone of economic development in the region, especially in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Explore Scottish mythological culture
The sculptures are strategically located at the Forth and Clyde Canal, a historic waterway that once connected the industrial cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh. They mark the entrance to the Helix Park, a 350-hectare public recreational area revitalized by the Kelpies project. The Kelpies themselves are made of a steel structure clad in shiny stainless steel plates that reflect light and take on different hues depending on the weather and time of day – from silvery shine to warm gold tones. Each sculpture weighs over 300 tons and was crafted in more than 10,000 individual pieces, underscoring the technical precision of this artwork.
Discover industrial history of Scotland
The significance of the Kelpies goes beyond their aesthetic impact. They pay homage to Scotland's industrial history, particularly the time when canals and horse power formed the basis of trade and transportation. At the same time, they celebrate the connection to nature and Celtic mythology deeply rooted in Scottish identity. The names of the two horse heads – Baron and Duke – allude to real Clydesdale horses that served as inspiration for Scott, giving the sculptures a personal touch.
Helix Park and its attractions
For visitors, the Kelpies offer a multifaceted experience. From the outside, they impress with their sheer size and the way they harmonize with their surroundings – the canal and the green landscape of the Helix Park provide a perfect backdrop. Especially at night, when the sculptures are illuminated with changing lights, they exude an almost unreal magic. There is also the opportunity to explore the interior of one of the Kelpies, where a small exhibition explains the construction and history of the project. From a platform inside, one can look out through the "eyes" of the sculpture, providing a fascinating change in perspective.
The Helix Park itself complements the Kelpies with extensive paths inviting walking, cycling, or jogging, as well as playgrounds and a visitor center providing further information about the region and the sculptures. The proximity to the Falkirk Wheel, a futuristic boat lift that is also a tourist attraction, makes the area a hotspot for day trips. The Kelpies have boosted the local economy and put Falkirk on the map as a travel destination by blending art, history, and nature.
