Satnav / Postcode
For the Kelpies Car Park (nearest to sculptures): FK2 7ZT
For the Helix Car Park (free, 24/7): FK2 7ZT — look for the first car park as you enter the Helix rather than following satnav all the way to the Kelpies Car Park.
By Car
From Edinburgh (approx. 30 minutes)
Take the M9 motorway westbound from Edinburgh. Exit at junction 6 (Falkirk / Grangemouth) and follow signs for the Helix / Kelpies. The park entrance is well signposted from the motorway junction.
From Glasgow (approx. 30 minutes)
Take the M80 motorway eastbound towards Stirling/Falkirk. Join the M876 towards Grangemouth/Kincardine Bridge, then take the exit for the Helix / Kelpies. Follow the brown tourist signs.
From Stirling (approx. 20 minutes)
Take the M9 southbound towards Edinburgh. Exit at junction 6 (Falkirk / Grangemouth) and follow signs for the Helix.
From the North (Perth, Dundee, Aberdeen)
Take the M90 south to the M9, then continue south on the M9. Exit at junction 6 for the Helix.
Parking Tip
The Helix Car Park (free, open 24/7) is the first car park you reach as you enter the park. The Kelpies Car Park (paid, locks at night) is further in. If you're happy with a short walk, save yourself the parking charge. Full parking details →
By Train
The nearest railway stations to the Helix are:
| Station | Distance to Helix | Connections |
|---|---|---|
| Falkirk High | ~2.5 miles | Edinburgh (20 mins), Glasgow Queen Street (25 mins) |
| Falkirk Grahamston | ~2.5 miles | Edinburgh (30 mins), Glasgow Queen Street (30 mins) |
| Camelon | ~2 miles | Local services |
Neither station is within comfortable walking distance of the Helix — you'll need a taxi (about 5-10 minutes and £5-8) or a bus from the station. Falkirk High is the busiest station with the most frequent Edinburgh and Glasgow services.
Train + Taxi
The most practical option for visitors without a car. Take the train to Falkirk High, then a short taxi to the Helix. There's a taxi rank at the station. The return journey is the same — ask the visitor centre to call a taxi, or use a taxi app.
By Bus
Local bus services run from Falkirk town centre to areas near the Helix, though services directly to the park entrance can be limited. Check First Bus and Stagecoach timetables for current routes. Bus services are less frequent on weekends and evenings.
For most visitors, a taxi from Falkirk town centre or train station is more straightforward than navigating local bus routes.
By Bicycle
The Helix sits on the Forth and Clyde Canal towpath, which makes it accessible by bicycle from both Falkirk and Grangemouth. The canal path is flat, surfaced, and traffic-free. If you're cycling from Falkirk town centre, it's about 3 miles along the canal — a pleasant and easy ride.
Bike racks are available at the Helix. The park itself is very cycle-friendly with miles of paths.
Organised Tours
If you'd rather not drive, several tour operators run day trips to The Kelpies from Edinburgh and Glasgow:
- Half-day and full-day tours typically combine The Kelpies with the Falkirk Wheel
- Some tours also include Stirling Castle or Loch Lomond
- Private tours are available for small groups (from around £250 for up to 4 people)
- Book through Viator, GetYourGuide, or local operators
Distance & Travel Times
| From | Distance | By car | By train + taxi |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edinburgh | ~30 miles | ~30 mins | ~35 mins |
| Glasgow | ~30 miles | ~30 mins | ~40 mins |
| Stirling | ~12 miles | ~20 mins | ~30 mins |
| Perth | ~40 miles | ~45 mins | ~60 mins |
| Dundee | ~65 miles | ~75 mins | ~90 mins |
| Falkirk town | ~3 miles | ~8 mins | Taxi ~5 mins |
Ready to Visit?
Parking options, opening times, and everything practical for your day at the Helix.
Visitor Information →