Helix Park and the Kelpies

The Helix is a large community park between Falkirk and Grangemouth, bisected by the Forth and Clyde Canal, formed from regenerated land and including a lake, wetlands, associated wildlife, walking and cycle paths, cafes and a visitor centre. But its most famous feature is the Kelpies, two massive steel sculptures of horses heads, inspired by Scotland’s historic industrial horse power and mythical creatures. Back in the day, horses would have been a constant sight on its towpaths, pulling the barges containing raw materials such as iron ore and coal, and the products of Falkirk’s nearby famous iron works. The mythical Kelpies are shape-shifters and are malignant, deriving pleasure from drowning travellers. The modern one are almost a 100 feet (30 metres) high and can be seen from the M9, but are best viewed from the park.