Kelpies Itinerary(from Glasgow)
The Kelpies lie centre stage within easy driving distance from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Perth or Stirling and although the example below is starting at Glasgow it could easily be from any other part of Central or West Scotland. It could also be a tour for 1 day, 2 or more.
Day 1 (example from Glasgow)
Leaving Glasgow, we head north and then to the east of the City of Stirling to the juncture of the Forth & Clyde Canal where it enters the Forth Estuary and the majestic 100 feet tall Kelpies Sculpture which are not just beautiful art but also an engineering feat. The Kelpies have become a "must visit" destination for those who visit Scotland and as such arriving in the morning avoids the busiest time.
The Kelpies are part of the local councils Helix park with lots of walks and art and a variety of activities.
Next we visit the nearby Falkirk Wheel which is a modern engineering marvel built to allow boats to change canals without the need for traditional locks. Here there is also a renowned visitor centre and cafe/restaurant. A short walk away are some remains of the Antonine wall, the furthest north the romans reached before retreating back to Hadrians wall in the North of Emgland.
Thirty minutes away is Scotlands best castle for visiting, Stirling Castle. Here you can see really interesting exhibits of life in the castle and grounds as well as take in the increadible views over the city of Stirling and beyond. Having lunch in the castle has become a bit of a tradition for visitors here.
Later we head for the amazing Wallace Monument which overlooks Stirling and that famous Strirling Bridge. For those (dare I say with a Brave Heart) who choose to ascend the monument you will be rewarded with incredible views from Edinburgh in the East to the Highlands in the West and North.
In the late afternoon we stop at the nearby Doune Castle (of Monty Python fame) where you can experience the fortified castle residence and its grounds. After this vist we will repair to your accommodation for the evening.
Day 2
Today's tour starts by heading west into the Highlands and along Loch Lubnaig to Balquhidder where we will go to the grave of the infamous Rob Roy McGregor where we can recount some tales to you. All along this part of Scotland is stunning scenery and it is steeped in History.
After ascending Glen Ogle we turn east towards Perth but before we get that far you can visit a number of places in and around the small town of Killin, including the falls of Dochart and the Moirlanich Long House dated from the early 19th century. We can stop in Killoin for an early lunch before heading along Loch Tay. At the far end we come across Kenmore and here we head onto the south side of the loch to vist a Crannog, a loch house on stilts which was inhabited all across Scotland around 2,500 years ago. The fascinating structure and visitor centre will stay in your memory for years to come.
After this we head for Perth and Scone Palace. The first King of Scotland was crowned here in 848 and is the true resting place for the Stone of Destiny. This fascinating area and its history will be a fitting end to your wee tour of central Scotland and the Kelpies.
