The Falkirk Wheel and South Falkirk

easy to use

map and 12suggested locations

something foreveryone

Walk, Ride and Cycle in and around

The Falkirk Wheel andSouth Falkirk

This leaflet has informationabout 12 routes in andaround the Falkirk Wheeland South Falkirk. Manyof these paths have beenimproved by FalkirkCouncil’s DevelopmentServices, Callendar Estateand Central ScotlandForest Trust with helpand support from locallandowners and farmers.

This is your chance to getout and about to take ajourney through our history- explore our Romanheritage, visit Rough Castle

Fort and the Antonine Wall,follow one of the olddrover’s roads, enjoy ourwoodlands and farmlands,the canal towpaths and theFalkirk Wheel.

Take a wander alongyour local paths and youwill find some greatcountryside, wildlife,fantastic views, and awealth of history, waitingto be discovered.

Which site should I visit?Simply read through thefollowing suggested routes

Walk, Ride and Cycle in and aroundThe Falkirk Wheel and South Falkirk Enjoy Scotland’s

outdoors responsibly!

Everyone has the right tobe on most land andinland water providingthey act responsibly.Your access rights andresponsibilities areexplained fully in theScottish Outdoor AccessCode.Whether you’re in theoutdoors or managingthe outdoors, the keythings are to:Take responsibility foryour own actionsRespect the interestsof other peopleCare for theenvironment

Visitwww.outdooraccess-scotland.com or contactyour local ScottishNatural Heritage office.

and choose one that suitsyour own interests, needsand abilities. Some ofthese paths follow greatshort family-friendlyroutes, whilst for othersyou’ll need a full day toexplore the sites andsounds of South Falkirk’sfantastic path network.

While you’re out and aboutexploring these paths, whynot visit to the FalkirkWheel, Rough CastleRoman Fort, or CallendarHouse and Park.

The Falkirk Wheel

The world’s first rotating boatlift, the Falkirk Wheelis an amazing feat of engineering. It lifts boats up 35metres using the same amount of power as eighttoasters.Annual closure November. Checkwww.thefalkirkwheel.co.uk for more information.Opening timesVisitor Centre, Café & Inner BasinSummer (April - Oct): 10.00am - 5.30pmWinter (Nov - March): Wed - Sun 11am - 4pm

Closed Mon & TuesTunnel & Swing BridgeApril - Oct: 8.30am - 7.30pmNov - March 8.30am - dusk

Hallglen

Falkirk WheelCamelon

Falkirk

Callendar House& Park

5

13

4

2

1 The Falkirk WheelShortie

2 Falkirk Wheel to RoughCastle Roman Fort

3 Falkirk Wheel toRough CastleCommunity Woodland

4 Falkirk Wheel toRough CastleCommunity Woodland

5 Tamfourhill Local Loop6 Bantaskine Park

Circular7 The Falkirk Tunnel

Circular8 Hallglen Local Loop9 Falkirk Wheel to Battle

of Falkirk Monument10 Falkirk Wheel to

Shieldhill Circular11 Falkirk Wheel and

Community WoodlandCircular

12 Callendar Estate CycleTrails

108

7

6

Finding your way

A mapTake a close look atthe map for eachroute. This should beall you need to findthe start point andget on your way. OSExplorer map 349covers the area.

SignsLook out for signposts andinterpretation boardsgiving moreinformation alongthe way.

It’s up to youThere are 12 routesin this leaflet, withinformation on greentransport options,path surfaces,gradients, parkingand facilities. Justchoose a route thatsuits your interestand ability and enjoythe paths in andaround the FalkirkWheel and SouthFalkirk.

Paths Key

RoughcastleRoman Fort

12

11

9

1. The Falkirk Wheel Shortie

Bus: Number 3 bus to The FalkirkWheel; for bus timetable informationcontact Traveline on 0871 200 2233 orvisit www.traveline.org.uk.

Train: Falkirk High Station - 4km (2.5miles) along towpath; Camelon Station2km (1.2 miles).

Cycle: Towpaths alongside Forth andClyde Canal and Union Canal.

Car: North & South car parks - freeparking. But please note the bridgeconnecting the North car park and thebasin closes at 8pm.

DistanceSuggested route - 1km (0.6 mile)

Other routes (see map).

Path informationThis route is easily accessible usingsurfaced paths with moderate inclines.However, the alternative return routehas some steeper gradients over thetunnel entrance. If you feel like a rest,take an extended push up the hill to astone seating area. The route is thenalong the canal towpath as far as thetwo locks returning via the same route.

FacilitiesToilets, refreshments and Visitor Centreat the Falkirk Wheel.

From the top of theFalkirk Wheel enjoyfantastic panoramicviews of the Forthvalley and the hillsbeyond. The tunnel atRoughcastle and thecanal locks providemore interest, butplease take care nearthe water.

Finding Your WayStart at the FalkirkWheel Visitor Centre1 From the mainentrance to theVisitor Centre takethe path uphillsignposted “UnionCanal and AntonineWall”. Instead ofbranching off to theright under the canalaqueduct continueuphill to reach astone seating areawith views out overthe top of the FalkirkWheel.

2 Continue along theUnion Canal towpath,through the shorttunnel and follow thepath to the bend.From here you canwatch the canal boatsusing the two locks.The canal continuesat this same level allthe way to Edinburgh50km/31miles away.

3 Return the same way,or from the seatingarea take the zig-zagpath up over thetunnel entrance anddown the other sideto pass under theaqueduct back to theVisitor Centre.

Key

Starting point

Main path

Alternative paths

Bench

Parking

Railway line

Vistors Centre &Tourist Information

Toilets

Disabled amenities

Disabled parking

Tunnel

The Lowland Canals

The canals were built usingmanpower from thenavvies. These migrantIrish and Highland workerscame to Central Scotlandlooking for work. They dugout the canals using picks,shovels, wheelbarrows andearly gunpowder.

Burke and Hare, theinfamous Edinburgh bodysnatchers, were navvies onthe Union Canal nearBrightons.

The Union and Forth &Clyde Canals are managedfor public benefit by BritishWaterways.

Forth &Clyde Canal

Union Canal

The Falkirk Wheel

Access Information

From the newest to the oldest - enjoy thiscircular route through restored countrysidevisiting constructions created two millenniaapart but which are only 1km (0.6 mile) fromeach other. This route also gives good views ofthe hills to the north.

Finding Your WayStart at the Falkirk Wheel Visitor Centre

1 Take the path uphill signposted “Union Canaland Antonine Wall”. Branch off to the right,passing underneath the canal aqueduct.

2 Follow this path for a short distance then takethe surfaced path downhill to your right whichsweeps round through Rough Castle CommunityWoodland to Roughcastle Roman Fort. Thiswoodland was once the site of a huge open castmining area. Explore the remains of the RomanFort at your leisure; there are interpretativepanels by the main features.

3 Cross over the top of the fort at the centralgrassy area near the central interpretationpanel. This will lead you to a surfaced path nextto the railway bridge. At this sign posted junctionturn left.

4 Follow the main path beside the railway, go leftat the first junction and heading straight on toenter The Falkirk Wheel site.

Bus: Number 3 bus to TheFalkirk Wheel; for bustimetable informationcontact Traveline on 0871200 2233 or visitwww.traveline.org.uk.

Train: Falkirk High Station -4km (2.5 miles) alongtowpath; Camelon Station2km (1.2 miles).

Cycle: Towpaths alongsideForth and Clyde Canal andUnion Canal.

Car: North & South carparks - free parking. Butplease note the bridgeconnecting the North carpark and the basin closesat 8pm.

DistanceSuggested route -3km (1.8 miles).

Easier option -2 km (1.2 miles)


Path informationThis route generally makesuse of compacted stonesurfaced paths. There is oneshort grass section whichmay be muddy and theRoman Fort is mown grass.There are gentle slopes butno gates or stiles with twonarrow gaps at the exitsfrom the Roman Fort.

FacilitiesToilets, refreshments andVisitor Centre at the FalkirkWheel.

2. Falkirk Wheel to Rough Castle Roman Fort

Rough Castle Roman Fort

The best preserved fort onthe Antonine Wall, RoughCastle could have been usedby up to 500 men. Therewere gateways, ditches,roadways, ramparts andvarious buildings, which nowshow as earthworks in the

grass. Look out for the lilia -stakes which defended thenorth of the fort.

For more information visitwww.historic-scotland.gov.uk

Starting point

Main path

Alternativepaths

Bench

Parking

Antonine Wall

Railway line

Toilets

Disabledamenities

Disabledparking

Vistors Centre& TouristInformation

Tunnel

Key

Forth &Clyde Canal

Union Canal

The Falkirk Wheel

Access Information

Bus: Number 3 bus to The FalkirkWheel; for bus timetable informationcontact Traveline on 0871 200 2233 orvisit www.traveline.org.uk.

Train: Falkirk High Station - 4km (2.5miles) along towpath; Camelon Station2km (1.2 miles).


Car: North & South car parks - freeparking. But please note the bridgeconnecting the North car park and thebasin closes at 8pm.

DistanceSuggested route - 2km (1.2 miles)

Other routes (see map)

Path informationThe first path and zigzag path are hardstone with most paths surfaced withcompacted stone. The zigzag path overthe tunnel is steep, but you can avoid it.There are no stiles or gates and thereare some benches.

FacilitiesToilets, refreshments and Visitor Centreat the Falkirk Wheel.

3. Taking it Easy:Falkirk Wheel to Rough Castle Community Woodland

Rough CastleCommunityWoodland

The woodlandwas created byCoal Contractorson the restoredopencast site. Avariety of nativetree specieshave beenplanted over its60 hectares.It offers anetwork of pathssuitable forwalking, cyclingand horse riding,seats and fineviews.

Key

Starting point

Main path

Alternativepaths

Bench

Parking

Antonine Wall

Railway line

Vistors centre& TouristInformation

Toilets

Disabledamenities

Disabledparking

Tunnel

A short circular, countrysideroute near the Falkirk Wheelwith good viewsFinding Your WayStart at the Falkirk WheelVisitor Centre1 Take the path uphillsignposted “Union Canaland Antonine Wall”.Continue straight up the hillto the seating area by thetunnel. There are goodviews from here lookingover the Falkirk Wheel tothe hills beyond.

2 Take the zig-zag path overthe tunnel entrance andhead down the path awayfrom the canal for a shortdistance. Turn left off themain path and headtowards the signpost and

the nearest pylon.

3 At the junction at the startof the woodland follow thepath straight ahead,passing beneath the powerlines. Continue along to thenext signpost and a benchand then turn left up thehill. Enjoy the sights andsounds of this section ofthe route - listen to thebirds, and look around asthe views open up.

4 At the T-junction turn rightparallel to the railway,turning next right to headdown the hill back to TheFalkirk Wheel. Back nearthe Falkirk Wheel, you canturn left to pass beneaththe canal aqueduct andreturn to the Visitor Centre.

Forth &Clyde Canal

Union Canal

The Falkirk Wheel

Access Information

Bus: Number 3 busto The Falkirk Wheel;for bus timetableinformation contactTraveline on 0871200 2233 or visitwww.traveline.org.uk.

Train: Falkirk HighStation - 4km (2.5miles) along towpath;Camelon Station 2km(1.2 miles).

Cycle: Towpathsalongside Forth andClyde Canal andUnion Canal.

Car: North & Southcar parks - freeparking. But pleasenote the bridgeconnecting the Northcar park and thebasin closes at 8pm.

DistanceSuggested route5km (3 miles)

Other routes(see map)

Path informationPath surfaces arevariable though mostare surfaced. Thepath gradients arealso variable, butsloping stretchesare short. There areseats in RoughCastle CommunityWoodland.

FacilitiesToilets, refreshmentsand Visitor Centre atthe Falkirk Wheel.

A long circular countryside routetaking you away from the FalkirkWheel to visit woodlands old andnew, and giving many chances ofviews over the Forth valley andthe hills beyond.

Finding Your WayStart at the Falkirk WheelVisitor Centre1 Take the path uphill signposted“Union Canal and Antonine Wall”.Continue straight up the hillthrough the Roughcastle Tunnel,and continue past the two locksalong the canal towpath to thefirst bridge (Station HouseBridge).

2 Leave the canal and cross thebridge. Pass on through thewoodland and, at the sign postedjunction, turn right along theDrove Loan.

3 Further on a gate allows accessthrough the field. Follow thispath which leads down to a gateinto Rough Castle CommunityWoodland.

4 Turn right then first left up thehill. At the top of the hill turnright to descend to the road.Cross the road carefully anduse the path out of the car parkto climb the next hill. At thesignposted junction continuestraight on down to the bridgeunder the railway. If you wishto explore the Roman Fort youare now only 100 metres fromit down a signposted woodlandpath.

5 Follow the main path besidethe railway and go left at the firstjunction. Head straight on toenter The Falkirk Wheel site.

4. A Little Longer:Falkirk Wheel to Rough Castle Community Woodland

Rough Castle opencast mine

This mine was once the largest excavation inScotland. It closed in 1996.

Antonine Wall

This Roman defensive fortification, built about142AD, stretches 61km (38 miles) from Carridenon the river Forth to Old Kilpatrick on the Clyde.It was constructed mostly of turf on a stone base,probably with a timber rampart. There is a ditch tothe north, with a cobbled roadway to the South,now known as the ‘Military Way’.

Forts along the wall, including the one at RoughCastle, are approximately 3km (2 miles) apart. By165AD the Antonine Wall had been abandoned, withthe Romans retreat to the safety of Hadrian’s Wall.

Key

Starting point

Main path

Alternative paths

Bench

Parking

Antonine Wall

Railway line

Vistors Centre &Tourist Information

Toilets

Disabled amenities

Disabled parking

Tunnel

Forth &Clyde Canal

Union Canal

The Falkirk Wheel

Access Information

3 Follow this path for a short time until you come toanother gate on the roadside. At the road, turn right.Please take care - there is no pavement here andtraffic comes from both directions.

4 Cross the railway bridge at the traffic lights and takethe path to the left then take the 1st path on your right.

5 At the path junction turn right and this will lead youalong the top of the Falkirk Wheel and back to theVisitor Centre.

5. Tamfourhill Local Loop


Train: Falkirk HighStation - 4km (2.5miles) along towpath;Camelon Station -2km (1.2 miles).

Cycle: Towpathsalongside Forth andClyde Canal and UnionCanal.

Car: North & South carparks - free parking.But please note thebridge connecting theNorth car park and thebasin closes at 8pm.

DistanceSuggested route -3 km (1.8 miles).

Other routes(see map).

Path informationThis route followssurfaced paths butthey are rough, andcan be muddy inplaces. There aresome moderateslopes up throughthe woodland andseveral gates.


A circular countryside route through woodlandon surfaced paths.

Finding Your WayStart at the Falkirk Wheel Visitor Centre1 From the top entrance to Falkirk Wheel onTamfourhill Road, head directly onto Lime Road, pastMaryfield Place and up onto the canal bridge. Followthe Right of Way uphill towards Drove Loan. Whenyou reach the junction turn right.

2 Further on a gate allows access through the field.Follow this path which leads down to a gate intoRough Castle Community Woodland.

Key

Starting point

Main path

Alternative paths

Bench

Parking

Antonine Wall

Railway line

Vistors Centre& TouristInformation

Toilets

Disabledamenities

Disabled parking

Tunnel

South FalkirkEnvironmentalAction Plan

The legacy of ourindustrial heritage hasleft its mark on ourlandscape - the mines,factories and smokestacks may be longgone, but they leftbehind a degradedlandscape.

The South FalkirkEnvironmental ActionPlan has restored thecountryside in SouthFalkirk for folk wholive, work and visit thearea - with thecreation of 13km ofpaths for people andbetter habitats forwildlife.

Forth &Clyde Canal

Union Canal

The Falkirk Wheel

Access Information

An easy circular routewith a few steep inclinesthrough the woodlands andgrassland of BantaskinePark. There are excellentviews over Falkirk to thehills beyond. Return alongthe Union Canal towpath.

Finding Your WayStart at Falkirk High Station1 There are many accesspoints to this route, but forease, begin at DrossieRoad car park at FalkirkHigh Station.

2 From the car park followthe underpass under therailway and take the pathon your right up to theUnion Canal.

3 At the canal turn right andfollow the towpath.Continue along thetowpath under the stonebridge (Walkers Bridge 62)carrying on along the

towpath until you reacha barrier gate withdiverging paths.

4 Take the path on yourright downhill and awayfrom the canal. At the endof this path you will reachGreenbank Road.

5 Turn left and head uphillback towards the UnionCanal’s finish point. Thisis a steep section.

6 Once back at the canalfollow the signpost thatreads “Bantaskin PublicEstate, Woodland walksand Battle of FalkirkMonument.”

7 Keep to the lower paththrough the woodlanduntil you return to theSeagull Trust Boat Housebeside the canal. Crossover the bridge again andhead back towards FalkirkHigh Station.

Bus: For bus timetable informationcontact Traveline on 0871 200 2233 orvisit www.traveline.org.ukNumber 18 to the Station (infrequent).Frequent bus service to Glen Brae at thebottom of High Station Road - Numbers5, 9, 12/13 and 17 pass this way.

Or Number 3 to Gartcows Road, andwalk up the road sign posted ‘SeagullTrust’, under the railway, and over thecanal to the Seagull Trust Boathouse(this reduces the walk by 1 km).

Train: Edinburgh - Glasgow trains:Falkirk High Station.


Car: Car Park at Drossie Road by FalkirkHigh Station.

DistanceSuggested route - 4 km (2.5 miles).


Path informationAll the paths on this route are surfacedwith compacted stone. There are gentlegradients with a short, steeper sectionon Greenbank Road and level backalong the towpath. There are no gatesor stiles, and there are occasionalbenches throughout, up to 1km apart.

FacilitiesToilets (limited facilities) at FalkirkHigh Station.

6. Bantaskine Park Circular

Bantaskine Park

Formerly the PolicyGrounds ofBantaskine Estate,the park has thefeel of a countrypark, even thoughit is within theboundaries of thetown. There areseveral interestingwoodland andcanal side pathsalong with openareas suitable forpicnics.

Though theMansion housewas demolishedin the 1950’s thewindows weresaved and are nowon displayin the HowgateShopping Centre inFalkirk.

Access Information

Key

Starting point

Main path

Alternativepaths

Bench

Parking

Railway line

Tunnel

Steps

Falkirk HighStation

An Underground / Overground routevisiting the spectacular lit tunnel andreturning over the hill above it.

Finding Your WayStart at Falkirk High Station1 Follow the path through theunderpass below the railway lineand then take the path on your rightup towards the Union Canal. At thecanal turn left and head into theFalkirk Tunnel. You should be ableto see the stalactites and changesin the rock and tunnel lining.

Bus: For bus timetable informationcontact Traveline on 0871 200 2233 orvisit www.traveline.org.uk.Number 18 to the Station (infrequent).Frequent bus service to Glen Brae atthe bottom of High Station Road–Numbers 5, 9, 12/13 and 17 pass thisway.Or Number 3 to Gartcows Road, andwalk uproad sign posted ‘Seagull Trust’,under the railway, and over the canal tothe Seagull Trust Boathouse (thisreduces the walk by 1 km).

Train: Edinburgh - Glasgow trains:Falkirk High Station.


Car: Car Park at Drossie Road byFalkirk High Station.

DistanceSuggested route - 3 km (1.8 miles).


Path informationThese are mostly compacted stonepaths. In the tunnel, the path isslippery and uneven, and you may needa waterproof or umbrella. A torch canbe handy for picking out the features ofthe tunnel or in case the lights are noton. There is a handrail. Cyclists shoulddismount.The return route over the tunnelfollows a trodden path which may bemuddy.There is a steep slope up from thetowpath and some steps at the end ofthe route.

Facilities(limited facilities) at Falkirk HighStation.

7. The Falkirk Tunnel Circular

Please take care as lighting is poor and the pathin the tunnel is wet.

2 Once you have left the tunnel follow the pathunder “The Laughin’ Greetin’ bridge”. Take the1st path on your left and head up onto thebridge. There is a signpost here directing you to“Slamannan Road, The Union Canal & FalkirkHigh Station”.

3 Cross the road and skirt the grass playing fields,and then cross Lionthorn Road. Follow the pathuntil you come to the ash playing fields.

4 Follow the sign post and take the path on theleft of the playing fields down to SlamannanRoad. At the road, turn left and head uphill.

5 Follow the signpost directing you to the pathacross the road that leads to Falkirk High Stationand the Union Canal.

Falkirk Tunnel Facts

At 630m long and at least3.6m high, Falkirk Tunnelwas the longest canaltunnel built in Scotland.

It was built because theowner of Callendar Housewould not allow the canalto be dug within sight ofthe house.

The tunnel was cut usingpicks, shovels andgunpowder through solidlimestone and millstonegrit. It was lit as part ofthe Millennium Link projectin 2000.

Key

Starting point

Main path

Alternative paths

Bench

Parking

Railway line

Tunnel

Canal bridge

Falkirk High Station

Union Canal

Access Information

An easy circular routetaking in the UnionCanal towpath whichcould also be tackled asa continuation of theFalkirk Tunnel Circular(Route 7).

Finding Your WayStart at Glenburn Roadopposite Beauly Court1 Cross Glenburn Roadcarefully, or use thesubway, to reach theold road to Glen Village.Just before the housesof Hallglen Terrace,turn left, taking a steepsign posted path downto the Union Canal.

2 At canal turn lefttowards Hallglen oralternatively, turn rightto see the Laughin’Greetin’ bridge (number61) and to explore theFalkirk Tunnel.

3 Notice the cobbledspillway or weir, whereexcess water from thecanal joins the GlenBurn in times of heavyrain. There are also twowinding points wherethe canal is wider toallow boats to turn or‘wind’ round.

4 Pass over the spillwayand continue along thecanal towpath. As youapproach bridge no.59take the path that leadsoff to your left.

5 The path now goesdownhill slightly. Followthis under the railwaybridge and cross overthe burn via a woodenbridge. Continue alongthe path as it headsback up to GlenburnRoad - turn left to getback to your startingpoint.

8. Hallglen Local Loop

Bus: Bus Number 5 loopsthrough Hallglen alongGlenburn Road. For bustimetable informationcontact Traveline on0871 200 2233 or visitwww.traveline.org.uk.Cycle: Towpathsalongside Forth andClyde Canal and UnionCanal.Train: Falkirk High

Station - 1.5 km (1 mile).Car: No designatedparking areas.Distance

Suggested route -1.3 km (0.8 mile).

Other routes(see map).

Path informationAll these paths aresurfaced, mainly withcompacted stone.

The cobbled weir isrough and may be underflowing water after heavyrain. Take care whencrossing it.There is one shortrough and steep sectiondown to canal.

FacilitiesToilets at HallglenCommunity Centre,Islands Crescent,Tel 01324 503747

Laughin’ Greetin’ Bridge

If you look up at the firstbridge east of the FalkirkTunnel (bridge 61), youwill see faces carved intothe top of the arch.

The Laughin’ face lookseast where the contractordigging the level canalhad an easy job all theway to Edinburgh.

The Greetin’ or crying facelooks west, where thecontractor had a hard jobof digging the tunnelthrough the hillsidefollowed by 11 locks downto meet the Forth & ClydeCanal.

Key

Starting point

Main path

Alternative paths

Railway line

Tunnel

Canal bridge

Hallglen PrimarySchool

Halglen CommunityCentre

Union Canal

HallglenGlenVillage

Access Information

7 Take the main pathinto Tamfourhill Wood,passing a pond on yourleft. There is seatinghere if you wish totake a rest. When youcome to the pathcrossroads, carry onstraight ahead passinga viewpoint of theOchil Hills.

8 Keep following thispath and continuethrough a field gateto farmland. Continueon this field edge pathpast the red-roofedbarn in the field onyour left. Just pastthis you will come to aset of gates. Followthe path to your rightand continue downhillinto Rough CastleCommunity Woodland.

9 When the tunnelis open:Near the bottom of thehill near Lochgreen

Road, take the 2ndpath on your rightwhich will lead youback towards the Lockon the Union canal.Cross over the lockand turn left. This pathwill take you back tothe Falkirk Wheel.

or10 When the tunnelis closed:Continue to the mainroad and turn right onBonnyhill Road. Pleasetake care - there is nopavement here andtraffic comes fromboth directions.

11 Cross the railwaybridge at the trafficlights and take thepath to the left. Takethe 1st path on yourright signposted “TheFalkirk Wheel”. At thepath junction take theroute on the right andthis will lead you backto the Falkirk Wheeland Visitor Centre.

A circular route fromFalkirk Wheel, throughBantaskin Park and pastthe Battle of FalkirkMonument.Finding Your WayStart at the Falkirk WheelVisitor Centre

1-3As for route 11.

4 Cross the road at theentrance to BantaskinPark. Take thesignposted path whichcuts through farmlandto Slamannan Roadand takes you to theviewpiont in BantaskinEstate.

5 When you reach theviewpoint follow theroad around the side ofthe private house.Instead of continuingup the main drive,follow the sign postedgrass path along thesouthern edge of thewalled garden.

6 Cross over the smallwooden bridge thenfollow the track onthe left over a secondbridge. This bridgewill bring you toGreenbank Road andthe Battle of FalkirkMonument. Cross theroad, go through the

gate and follow thepath towards CanadaWood and TamfourhillWood.

9. Falkirk Wheel to Battle of Falkirk Monument

Key

Starting point

Main path

Alternative paths

Railway line

Tunnel

Canal bridge

Railway Station

Parking

Antonine Wall

Mountain Bike Trail(see route 12)




Car: North & South carparks - free parking.But please note thebridge connecting theNorth car park and thebasin closes at 8pm.

DistanceSuggested route -7 km (4.5 miles).

Other routes (seemap).

Path informationThis route followsmainly surfaced paths,with a couple of un-surfaced sectionswhich can get muddy.Some of the tracks arevery uneven, and careshould be taken whencrossing any roadsalong this route. Thereare some moderate-steep slopes on partsof the route.


Access Information

CanadaWood

Falkirk

Battle ofFalkirk

Monument

TamfourhillWood

The FalkirkWheel

16km (10 miles) routetaking in the water, woodsand history of SouthFalkirk.

Finding Your WayStart at the Falkirk WheelVisitor Centre

1 From the top entrance toFalkirk Wheel car park onTamfourhill Road, headdirectly onto Lime Road,past Maryfield Place andup onto the canal bridge.

Turn left and follow theUnion Canal towpathpassing the Seagull TrustBoat House, Falkirk HighStation and the FalkirkTunnel. If you prefer notto go through the Tunnel,there is a rough path thattakes you up and over(see Route 7). Please notethe towpath is muddy inplaces.

2 Stay on the towpathpassing over the spillway

Bus: Number 3 bus toThe Falkirk Wheel; for bustimetable informationcontact Traveline on 0871200 2233 or visitwww.traveline.org.uk.

Cycle: Towpaths alongsideForth and Clyde Canal andUnion Canal.

Train: Falkirk High Station -4km (2.5 miles) alongtowpath; Camelon Station2km (1.2 miles).

Car: North & South carparks - free parking. Butplease note the bridgeconnecting the North carpark and the basin closes at8pm.

DistanceSuggested route - 16km (10 miles).


Path informationMainly on surfaced pathswith three short sectionsunsurfaced. These can getmuddy. The towpath isrelatively flat, but there aresome steep sections leadingup from the Canal towardsShieldhill, and throughCleuch Plantation.

FacilitiesToilets, refreshments andVisitor Centre at the FalkirkWheel.

10. Falkirk Wheel toShieldhill Circular

Key

Starting point

Main path

Alternative paths

Alternative pathover tunnel

Parking

Antonine Wall

Railway line

Tunnel

Canal bridge


Falkirk GrahamstonStation

Callendar EstateCycle Trails


Union Canal

Forth &Clyde Canal

The Falkirk Wheel

Hallglen

Falkirk

GlenFarmIceCreamParlour

Shieldhill

TamfourhillAccess Information

The ‘WeeFarm Shop’

Callendar House& Park

‘Battle ofFalkirk’

Monument

Old Drove Road

Cattle (and later sheep)from the Highlands andIslands were driven tomarket along routeswhich became knownas drovers roads.

A vast network ofthese drove roadscrossed the Highlandsand converged on“tryst” (meeting place)sites such as theFalkirk Tryst.

The cattle weresold at these Trystsand then takensouth to grazingareas like those inNorthumberland andthe Yorkshire Daleswhere they weregrazed and fattenedafter their longjourneys. They werethen driven south tothe London markets.

The Wee Farm Shop

Visitwww.theweefarmshopfor more informationand opening times.

Glen FarmIce cream Parlour &Farm Shop

OPENING SOONServing quality coffeeand cakes as wellas ice cream madefrom milk produced onthe farm.www.glenfarmicecream.co.uk/

(cobbled section) andcontinue alongside thecanal. After 5 km (3miles) you will reachBridge No. 57. Followthe path up and over thebridge sign-posted “TheOld Drove Road”. Crossthe stile at the far side ofthe bridge, and then headover a short rough grasssection to the kissinggate ahead.

3 The kissing gate leadsyou into a woodland andonto a compacted stonepath. Follow this up thehill to your left andthrough another kissinggate. Continue up the hilluntil you reach a pathjunction. Take the shortsteep unsurfaced path onyour right which will takeyou onto the farm trackpast Pirleyhill Farm.

4 At the end of this trackturn right and follow thepath down throughMavisbank Wood. Thereare good views acrossthe Forth here and abench where you cantake a well earned rest.At the foot of this pathadjacent to Falkirk Woodturn left to crossShieldhill Road andfollow the Public Right ofWay to Cleuch

Plantation.

5 Follow the path toGlen Farm road. Crossunder the road andfollow the track downthrough Easter Stripwoodland. You will gothrough a number ofgates on this route. Atthe path junction turnright following the pathdownhill through KilbeanWood and LionthornCommunity Woodland.Turn left on LionthornRoad and continue up thehill taking care when youcross Slamannan Road.Follow the signpostedpath to Lochgreen Road.

6 Take care as youcross Lochgreen Road,and then head intoBantaskine Park. Turnleft along the surfacedpath to the Battle ofFalkirk Monument. Again,take care as you crossthe road to take the pathto the Drove Loan. Alongthis path turn left andat the path crossroads,turn right taking thepath back downhill tothe Union Canal. Whenyou reach the canaltowpath, retrace thefirst part of this route totake you back to theFalkirk Wheel.

10. Falkirk Wheel to Shieldhill Circular (continued)

Callendar Estate Cycle Trails

An exciting new initiative by Callendar Estate todevelop a network of mountain bike trails in thewoodlands to the South of Falkirk.

For more information please visitwww.callendarestate.co.uk




Car: North & South carparks - free parking. Butplease note the bridgeconnecting the Northcar park and the basincloses at 8pm.

DistanceSuggested route -16 km (10 miles).

Other routes (seemap).

Path informationThis route followsmainly surfaced paths,with a couple ofun-surfaced sectionswhich can get muddy.Some of the tracks arevery uneven, and careshould be taken whencrossing any roadsalong this route. Thereare some moderate-steep slopes on partsof the route.


11. Falkirk Wheel Community Woodland Circular

16kms (10 miles) of pathsand tracks through SouthFalkirk’s CommunityWoodlands at Lionthorn,Drum Wood and RoughCastle.

Finding Your WayStart at the Falkirk WheelVisitor Centre1 From the Visitor Centre

follow the steepsurfaced path leadinguphill towards theUnion Canal. Passthrough the tunnel andfollow the canal on themain towpath. There isseating at various pointsalong the canal.

2 Cross bridge (no.62)onto a wide track and

Paintball Site

TheFalkirkWheel

Union Canal

Forth & Clyde Canal

AuchengeanFarm

BeamFarm

Lionthorn

Falkirk

Bantaskine Estate

Access Information

Key

Starting point

Main path

Alternative paths

Parking

Antonine Wall

Railway line

Tunnel

Canal bridge


Callendar EstateCycle Trails


‘Battle ofFalkirk’

Monument

head uphill passing theSeagull Trust BoatHouse on your right.Continue uphillcrossing over a bridgejust before approachinga private house andviewpoint. There isseating on the routeand at the viewpoint.Take the track whichpasses behind thehouse and follow themain drive toLochgreen Road.

4 Cross the road at theentrance to BantaskinPark. Take the signposted path which cutsthrough farmland toSlamannan Road. Crossthe road and turn righttowards the bus stop.Turn left and headdownhill following themain road which passesthrough Lionthornhousing estate. Asyou near the end of thehousing estate on yourright you will see theentrance to LionthornCommunity Woodland.Cross the road and takethe path which followsto the left of thewoodland.

5 Cross over the smallwooden bridge over theGlen Burn and followthe zig–zag route uphilland through KilbeanWoodland. Whenyou reach the top of thepath it turns right andheads west. Pass

through the gate whichwill take you onto along farmland track.Continue straight alongthe track forapproximately 1.5 km(1 mile) passingthrough several gatesas you go. This bringsyou to Slamannan Roadvery close to theWesterglen TransmitterStation.

6 Cross the road andcontinue on the farmtrack for about 1.5 km(1 mile) passingAuchengean Farm untilyou reach a pathjunction. Take the pathto the right which windsthrough Drum Wood.This brings you outonto a farm track. Turnright down the farmtrack which brings youout onto LochgreenRoad.

7 Turn right on to a newsection of path thatruns parallel withLochgreen Road. After500m cross LochgreenRoad and follow thewoodland track throughDrum Wood to a Tjunction.

8 At the T junction turnright and follow thepath through farmlandwith Bonnyhill Farmon your left. Continueon this path until youcome to a junction.Take the path on yourright and continue until

the next junction.

9 Take the path on yourleft that leads downinto RoughcastleCommunity Woodland.

10When the tunnel isopen, follow the pathdownhill and take the2nd path on your right.This takes you to TheUnion Canal tunnel andthe Falkirk Wheel.

or11When the tunnel is

closed continue to themain road and turnright on Bonnyhill Road.Please take care - thereis no pavement hereand traffic comes fromboth directions.

12Cross the railwaybridge at the trafficlights and take thepath to the left. Takethe 1st path on yourright signposted “TheFalkirk Wheel”. At thepath junction take theroute on the right andthis will lead you backto the Falkirk Wheeland Visitor Centre.

11. Falkirk Wheel Community Woodland Circular (continued)

Bean Geese

To avoid disturbance toBean Geese please useroute through thewoodland from midSeptember to early March.

For further information onBean Geese seewww.bean-geese.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk

At Callendar Estate we havebuilt a network of single trackmountain bike trails tocomplement the walking andhorse riding routes alreadyavailable.

The cycle trails are easyfamily friendly routes thatwind in and out of theattractive woodland on theedge of Falkirk. For your safetyand enjoyment they aredesigned to be ridden one way.Please follow the directions ofthe arrows shown on the planand the on site way marking.Please also be considerate ofother users of the wider pathnetwork and be aware that,whilst the cycle trails havebeen designed for mountainbiking other users may also bepresent.

DirectionsThe trail network is accessedfrom the Greenrig car park,3 miles from the centre ofFalkirk. From the centre ofthe town follow the signsfor Slamannan. Once onSlamannan Road take the3rd exit off the miniroundabout on to LochgreenRoad and continue on for amile to the car park. The trailscan also be accessed from theFalkirk Wheel and Falkirk HighStation following the UnionCanal tow path.

12. Callendar Estate Cycle Trails

Canada Trail (Easy single track -see map 4.1km (2.5 miles))An easy graded route suitable for most cyclists.There are no steep hills, just gentle ups anddowns which let you flow along. Look out forCharlie’s Stanes on the way which marks the siteof the Battle of Falkirk in 1746. An optional boardwalk provides a bit of a challenge for thosewishing to test their skill level.

Craigieburn Trail (Moderate single track -see map 3.4km (2 miles))A slightly more challenging route with a fewgentle hills to work the heart and lungs and a fewtwisting drops for a bit more adrenaline. Theroute winds through Craigburn Wood and returnsto the start through Howierig Moss, an importantsite for nature conservation. Please take carewhere the trail crosses the main road

Key

Easy single track

Moderate single track

Challenging single track

Link path multi use

Track direction

Parking

RoughcastleCar Park

Falkirk Wheel

Union Canal

BantaskineCar Park

CanadaWood

GreenrigCar Park

CraigieburnWood

KilbeanWood

LionthornCar Park

AuchengeanWood

FalkirkHigh

RailwayStation

Bespoke CommunityDevelopment Company

The cycle trails and pathsat Callendar Estate aremanaged by the BeSpokeCommunity DevelopmentCompany, a communityinterest company workingin partnership withCallendar Estate tomanage, maintain,promote and enhance thepath network. For moreinformation about thecompany and about how toget involved go towww.bespokefalkirk.co.uk

Auchengean Trail (Challenging single track -see map 6.8km (4.25 miles))Intended to be ridden as an extension to theCraigieburn trail, adding an extra 3.4km to the trail.This is for more experienced cyclists with areasonable level of fitness and involves a fairlystrenuous climb to the top of Auchengean woodwith a rewarding fast descent. Watch out for thetwo short sections of raised board walk. If in anydoubt get off and walk.

Kilbean Trail (Moderate single track -see map 3km (1.8 miles))The Kilbean trail is accessed from the Lionthorn carpark and involves a steady climb flowed by anexciting descent. We have added in some technicalchallenges, including steps and big berms as optionalextras. The top part of the trail is graded red due toits steep descent and fast switch back corners andis for more experienced cyclists. To extend the ridefollow the farm track passed Westerglen Transmitterfor 1.8km to join the Auchengean Trail.

www.callendarestate.co.uk

Getting There: Get your copy of the Green Travel Mapat www.falkirk.gov.uk or call 01324 504950.

By Foot: If you live nearby.

By Cycle: Sustrans National Cycle Network Route76. Cycle route information available fromwww.sustrans.org.uk 0845 1130065Towpaths along Forth & Clyde Canal and UnionCanal.

By Rail: Nearest Train Stations are at Camelon,Falkirk Grahamston or Falkirk High.

By Bus: For further information on bus times,numbers, routes, etc call Traveline on 0871 2002233 or visit www.traveline.org.uk.

By Car: Follow signs to The Falkirk Wheel.

Thank you To all organisations, landowners and localcommunities for their cooperation and support.

Further informationwww.falkirk.gov.ukwww.thefalkirkwheel.co.ukwww.visitscotland.comwww.forthstimeline.comwww.callendarestate.co.ukwww.bespokefalkirk.co.uk

For more information contact Falkirk Council’s AccessOfficer, Development Services on 01324 504950.

AANNEE FFOORR AA''

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FalkirkCouncil

Designedby

Com

munications

Unit,CorporateandNeighbourhood

Services,FalkirkCouncil.2010

Walk, Ride and Cycle in and aroundThe Falkirk Wheel and South Falkirk

Documents

The Falkirk Wheel and South Falkirk