With another month of the summer holidays to go, it’s the perfect time to get out and explore all the exciting family-friendly activities that Falkirk has to offer – recently named the best place to visit in Scotland for families by London North Eastern Railway! From outdoor adventures and fascinating history to playparks and steam trains, there’s no shortage of ways to keep the kids entertained. Here’s a round-up of 10 brilliant things to do with your little ones in Falkirk this summer – and the best part is, many of them are free or low-cost!
1. Ride the Falkirk Wheel
The Falkirk Wheel is a real showstopper – it’s the world’s only rotating boat lift and one of Scotland’s most iconic engineering feats. Watching it in action is mesmerising! You can book a boat trip that takes you up and down the Wheel itself, giving you a unique view of the surrounding canals and countryside. But there’s more to do here than just the ride! The site has a large play area with climbing structures and a splash zone that’s perfect for sunny days, plus bumper boats, crazy golf, and even paddleboarding. With food trucks and a café on-site, it’s easy to spend the whole day here without anyone getting bored.
Kids enjoying paddle boats at the Falkirk Wheel on a sunny summer day
2. Try the Scottish Segway Centre
For a more adventurous outing, the Scottish Segway Centre at the Falkirk Wheel offers a really unique experience. After a quick safety briefing and some practice, you can head off on a guided Segway tour through the surrounding trails and along the canal. It’s a fun, safe way to see more of the area from a new perspective! There are different routes and packages available, depending on how long you want to spend exploring.
Visitors riding Segways near the Falkirk Wheel on a clear summer day
3. Visit The Kelpies & Helix Park
Towering at 30 metres tall, The Kelpies are the largest equine sculptures in the world and a must-see when visiting Falkirk. These awe-inspiring horse heads are part of The Helix park, a huge green space that’s packed with family-friendly attractions. Little ones can enjoy the impressive adventure playground, complete with climbing frames, and a splash play area to cool off on hot days. The wide open spaces are perfect for picnics, scooting, or cycling, and there are well-maintained paths that are buggy-friendly too. You can also book a guided tour to go inside one of the sculptures and learn more about the inspiration behind them. It’s a great mix of art, outdoor play, and storytelling – all in one place.
4. Cycle the Bo’ness to Blackness Castle Trail
If you’re looking for a scenic and active day out, the Bo’ness to Blackness Castle cycling trail is a brilliant choice for families. This flat, easy-going route hugs the Firth of Forth and offers beautiful coastal views the whole way – perfect for those looking for a relaxed ride. The trail ends at the striking Blackness Castle, famously nicknamed “the ship that never sailed” due to its unique shape and waterside setting. Arrive by bike and you’ll even get 25% off your entry fee, making it a fun and affordable way to explore this fascinating fortress. After exploring the towers, walls, and sweeping views across the water, stop in at The Lobster Pot nearby for a well-earned meal – their seafood is locally loved, and the cosy, welcoming atmosphere makes it a great place to rest and refuel before the ride home.
Cycling the scenic coastal trail to Blackness Castle
5. Discover Callendar House and Park
Step back in time at Callendar House, a beautiful French chateau-style mansion set in the heart of Callendar Park. Inside the house, you’ll find historical exhibitions and a working Georgian kitchen where costumed guides bring history to life. Kids can learn about the Romans and the Antonine Wall in a way that’s hands-on and interactive, making it both educational and fun. Outside, the sprawling parkland is perfect for a family day out, with woodland trails, a boating lake, and an excellent play park. There’s also a lovely tearoom inside the house if you fancy a break with tea and cake. It’s a great mix of culture and outdoor fun, and perfect for those days when you want a bit of everything.
6. Meet the Animals at Muiravonside Country Park
Just a short distance from Falkirk town centre, Muiravonside Country Park is a fantastic place to escape into nature. The park is home to Newparks Farm, where kids can see different animals up close, like goats, pigs, sheep, donkeys, llamas, highland cows, and more. The park also has a great play area, cosy café, riverside walks, picnic spots, and sculpture trails hidden throughout the woodland paths. It’s ideal for a relaxed, low-cost day out where kids can run free, explore, and burn off some energy.
7. Ride the Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway
All aboard! If your child is obsessed with trains, the Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway is an absolute treat. You can hop on a vintage steam or diesel train and enjoy a nostalgic journey through the countryside, with beautiful views and friendly staff. Special themed events like “Day Out With Thomas” or “Teddy Bear Picnics” make it even more magical for young passengers. There’s also a station café and the Museum of Scottish Railways onsite for even more train-themed fun. It’s the kind of outing that delights kids and gives adults a bit of a nostalgia hit too.
8. Visit the Museum of Scottish Railways
Located just next to the Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway station, the Museum of Scottish Railways is the largest railway museum in Scotland and a brilliant follow-up to your train ride. It’s packed with beautifully restored locomotives, vintage carriages, and interactive exhibits. Kids can explore the driver’s cab, learn how signals work, and see how train travel has changed over time. The museum is indoors, making it a great option if the weather takes a turn, and it’s included in the price of your railway ticket if you’re visiting on a train running day. It’s fun, educational, and surprisingly hands-on – perfect for curious minds.
9. Enjoy a Peaceful Afternoon in Dollar Park
Sometimes all you need is a simple park with space to play, and Dollar Park ticks all the boxes. It’s centrally located in Falkirk and ideal for a chilled-out afternoon. The pirate themed play area is well-kept and great for younger kids, while the formal gardens, tennis courts, and open grassy areas provide a peaceful backdrop for a picnic or a gentle stroll. There’s even a charming walled garden that feels like a secret spot in the middle of town. It’s the kind of place that’s perfect for when you want to relax and let the kids amuse themselves with minimal planning involved.
10. Enjoy a Countryside Escape at Cloybank Estate
For a peaceful outdoor experience, Cloybank is a fantastic place to slow things down and connect with nature. Tucked away, this working farm offers stunning views over the hills and a warm, friendly atmosphere that makes it ideal for families. Kids can wander through the paddocks and say hello to alpacas, goats, Highland cows, pigs, and chickens – all while learning a little about life on the farm. There’s also a cosy café on-site serving up homemade cakes, hot drinks, and simple lunches. Whether you stay for an hour or an afternoon, Cloybank is a lovely, low-key outing that gives kids space to breathe and explore at their own pace.
Falkirk is a fantastic place for families, with a brilliant mix of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and budget-friendly days out. Whether you’re splashing around in the sun, exploring ancient history, or chugging through the countryside on a steam train, there’s something for every age and every kind of kid. So grab your sunscreen (and maybe a raincoat just in case!) and get out there to make some amazing summer memories!
