Spring has arrived and the Easter holidays are around the corner – there’s no better time to discover the Falkirk area! Whether you’re a lover of the outdoors, a history buff, or seeking family-friendly fun, Falkirk offers a vibrant mix of activities and experiences. Discover everything this season has to offer and make the most of your springtime visit!
These are a few ideas of things to see and do around the Falkirk area over the Easter break with the family. Share your special moments on social media with us using the hashtag #VisitFalkirk !
1. Enjoy Exciting Spring Events
The Falkirk area’s spring calendar is packed with must-see events. Celebrate Easter with family-friendly activities across the region and don’t miss the Enchanted Market – a magical bazaar on Falkirk High Street taking place on the 3rd and 4th of May. Hop aboard at the Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway for a Day Out With Thomas the Tank Engine and friends. With so much happening, there’s something for everyone this season!
2. Explore Falkirk’s Stunning Parks
Breathe in the fresh spring air as you stroll through Falkirk’s picturesque parks. Visit Zetland Park in Grangemouth, perfect for families with its play area, sensory garden and historic rose garden. Dollar Park offers both a haven of tranquillity in its restored walled garden and plenty of areas for children to play. Or immerse yourself in the grandeur of Callendar Park, where scenic walking paths wind through lush woodlands combine with a Roman themed playpark and new bike pump track, all surrounding the magnificent Callendar House.
3. Try Segway Adventures
For a fun and unique way to explore, try a Segway tour with the Scottish Segway Centre. Take a Segway Safari at the modern marvel of The Falkirk Wheel. From there you can take in spectacular views across the Forth Valley before gliding through Callendar Estate’s beautiful woodland trails and past remnants of the Roman Antonine Wall. It’s an unforgettable experience that’s perfect for families or groups of friends.
4. Refuel with ice cream at The Milk Barn
For a well-earned break, head to The Milk Barn Ice Cream Parlour, a Falkirk family favourite set in the Callendar Estates. Using milk from their very own herd of cows, they serve up some of the best ice cream in Scotland to satisfy any sweet tooth. Meanwhile, savoury fans looking for a lunch stop, will be pleased with their selection of sandwiches, baguettes, and paninis.
The coffee shop also has an indoor and outdoor kids play area with a bouncy pillow, outdoor seating, and a large fibreglass cow called Glenda, so your kids can practice their milking skills.
5. See spectacular coastal views from Blackness Castle
Perched on the edge of the Firth of Forth, Blackness Castle’s ship-like resemblance has earned its reputation as the ship that never sailed. With remarkable views spanning the Fife coast and Forth bridges, the 15th-century castle has been the filming location for Outlander, Mary Queen of Scots, Hamlet, and much more. See if you can spot where your favourite scenes were filmed.
And after touring the castle, you can enjoy a snack or a delicious meal at the quirky ship-themed restaurant, The Lobster Pot.
6. Travel back to Roman times
Explore the remains of the Antonine Wall, a World Heritage UNESCO site. Substantial lengths of this remarkable monument can still be seen at various sites across the Falkirk area.
Visit Rough Castle, one of the best preserved Roman Forts, wander around Kinneil Estate, which includes a roman fortlet. Discover the section in Callendar Park, which also has an amazing Roman Fort themed play area and some Food and Drink kiosks to let you grab a hot drink while the kids have fun in the park.
Other sections of the Antonine Wall are Tamfourhill camp and the replica of the Bridgeness Slab in Bo’ness.
7. Hit the shops in Falkirk town centre
With a traditional high street and a large shopping centre, the Howgate, you’ll be spoilt for choice with shops for kids and adults alike. Pop into one of your high street favourites or with a District Towns Gift Card, support local independent boutiques, gift shops, and food and drink venues.
Make sure you stop at one of the most magical shops in Scotland The Lonely Broomstick. You can even make a day of it and visit the nearby Central Retail Park, complete with a 12-screen cinema and a wide selection of restaurants.
8. Cycle Through Falkirk’s Scenic Trails
Spring is ideal for cycling, and Falkirk boasts trails for all abilities. Explore the Callendar Estate mountain bike trails or take on the Heart of Falkirk route to discover the town’s most iconic sites. Nature and history enthusiasts will enjoy the stunning views from the John Muir Way, a long-distance trail passing through the area. Don’t have a bike? No problem! Local bike hire options make it easy for everyone to join in. Plan your adventure with one of our cycling itineraries.
9. Board a vintage steam train at Boness and Kinneil Railway
On the Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway, you can soak up 10 miles of scenic, Scottish countryside views. Travellers can enjoy the on-train buffet where afternoon tea can be pre-booked on special dates, or you can visit the on-site cafe.
Check out their varied programme of special events for tiny tots up to avid train enthusiasts, including a Day Out With Thomas, Murder on the Manuel Express, and more.
Keep the fun going at the Museum of Scottish Railways, Scotland’s largest railway museum. Climb aboard a Post Office Coach or try your hand at being a signalman.
10. Extend your stay
It’s impossible to explore all there is to see and do in the Falkirk area in one day, so why not stay with us for longer! We have unique stays to suit every taste and budget; cruise the canals on a barge, relax in rural glamping sites, or explore the area in a motorhome. If you prefer classic comforts, choose from welcoming hotels and bed and breakfasts or cosy self-catering accommodation for the perfect seasonal retreat.
