What Are Kelpies and Where Can You Find Them?

Mythical Places of Scotland – Where the line between legend and landscape disappears… 👉 If you believe in magic—or just want to see where the stories live—start here. Which mythical spot would you dare to visit?

So, What are Kelpies and Where Can You See Them in Scotland?

Scotland is a land of ancient myths and bold engineering—and nowhere do those worlds collide more dramatically than in Falkirk. Towering over the landscape are two enormous horse-head sculptures known as The Kelpies. But what exactly are they, and why are they here?

Kelpies are legendary creatures from Scottish folklore. Said to be shape-shifting water spirits, they usually appeared as powerful black horses that haunted lochs and rivers. According to myth, they would tempt people onto their backs before plunging into the water to drown their riders. These stories were once told across the country—likely to keep children away from deep water.
👉 Learn more about the myth behind the Kelpies

In 2013, Scottish sculptor Andy Scott brought these legends to life—literally—by creating two massive kelpie heads as part of The Helix Park project. Standing 30 metres (98 feet) tall, they are the largest equine sculptures in the world. The Kelpies were designed to honour not only the mythical creatures but also the heavy horses of Scotland’s past—Clydesdales and Shires that once pulled barges along canals and toiled in the fields.

Though their name comes from folklore, the sculptures are a tribute to real strength and hard work. They represent the role of horses in Scotland’s industrial history and stand at the gateway between myth and machinery.

You can visit The Kelpies at The Helix Park in Falkirk, located about halfway between Edinburgh and Glasgow. Entry to the park is free, and the sculptures are visible day and night—illuminated beautifully after dark. Visitors can enjoy guided tours that take you inside the structures, offering a look at the impressive engineering behind them.

The Helix Park also includes walking and cycling paths, a visitor centre, a lagoon, and access to the Forth and Clyde Canal. It’s a popular stop for families, photographers, and anyone interested in Scotland’s blend of culture and creativity.

📌 Location: The Helix Park, Falkirk – about 25 miles northeast of Glasgow and 26 miles west of Edinburgh.

The Kelpies are more than sculptures—they are a national symbol, fusing myth with modern art and industry. Whether you’re visiting for the legend, the engineering, or just a unique photo, this is one stop you won’t forget. 👉 Learn more about the myth behind The Kelpies here

Have you visited The Kelpies—or do you plan to?
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Mythical Places of Scotland – Where the line between legend and landscape disappears… 👉 If you believe in magic—or just want to see where the stories live—start here. Which mythical spot would you dare to visit?

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