The Falkirk Wheel

The Falkirk Wheel is the world’s only rotating boatlift, which is used to connect the Forth & Clyde and Union canals in central Scotland.

The Falkirk Wheel is a magnificent, mechanical marvel which has been constructed to 21st century, state-of-the-art engineering. It is already being recognised as an iconic landmark worthy of Scotland's traditional engineering expertise.

Designed to replace a series of lock gates built in the 19th century - long since demolished and replaced by housing - The Falkirk Wheel is the showpiece of the Millennium Link project where coast-to-coast navigation of the canals has been re-established for the first time in over 40 years.

The Forth& Clyde canal was opened in 1773 and extended from Grangemouth on the River Forth, to Bowling on the River Clyde. The Union (or Edinburgh & Glasgow Union) canal was opened much later in 1822 and operated from Edinburgh to Falkirk with a series of locks connecting the two canals at Port Downie in Camelon. These were demolished years ago and for decades there has been no through traffic on the canals.

Special group rates are available and the visitor centre is open at no cost to sit and view The Falkirk Wheel or have a delicious coffee and a wide variety of quality foods.

Boat trips on the canals can be also arranged at competitive rates. For visitors taking the boat trip, the entire Wheel Experience will last for approximately 60 minutes on a round trip and ascent and descent through the wheel.