The Kelpies
The Helix, Grangemouth, Falkirk FK2 7ZT
The Kelpies are the world’s largest equine sculptures, standing at 30 metres tall and weighing 300 tonnes each. Designed by renowned Scottish sculptor Andy Scott, these magnificent structural steel horse heads are clad in thousands of individual stainless steel plates and sit as a dramatic gateway to the Forth & Clyde Canal. They represent the mythical shape-shifting water spirits of Scottish folklore, while simultaneously paying homage to the literal heavy horse "horsepower" that historically pulled industrial barges along Scotland's canal networks.
Located within the 350-hectare Helix Park between Falkirk and Grangemouth, they are spectacular during the day and take on an entirely different, magical life at night when they are beautifully lit from dusk until dawn.
Motorhome & Campervan Stopover Details
The site functions as a dedicated overnight "aire" rather than a formal campsite, meaning standard "no-camping" rules apply (e.g., no awnings, but setting up small tables or a BBQ on adjacent grass is generally tolerated).
Location: Overnight parking is designated in the main, flat Helix Car Park closest to the visitor centre.
Fees: £12.50 to £15 per night. A parking warden typically checks vehicles and collects payment via card in the evening.
Length Restriction: The maximum permitted vehicle length for overnight stays is 8 metres.
Security: The vehicle entry gates are locked overnight (typically between 8:00 PM and 8:00 AM depending on the season), creating a secure, self-contained environment with an emergency-only exit barrier.
Perks: Overnight parking tickets usually include a voucher or token for a free hot drink or a buy-one-get-one-free offer at the visitor centre cafe.
Facilities & Dining
Toilets: Clean public toilets are located at the Kelpies Car Park hub and are kept open 24/7 for overnight campers.
Services: There are no electrical hookups (EHU), chemical waste disposal points, or fresh water fill-ups inside this specific car park. Vehicles must be completely self-sufficient.
On-Site Dining: The Falkirk Kelpies Visitor Centre houses a bright, contemporary café operating daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It serves locally sourced hot breakfasts, lunches (such as baked potatoes, pizza, and soups), artisan coffees, and plenty of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free cakes. Seasonal catering vans, such as the Horsebox Cafe, operate outside near the plaza for ice cream and quick takeaway bites.
Local Information & Activities
The Kelpies Tour: While exploring the park paths is free, it is highly recommended to book a 25-minute guided tour via the Helix Visitor Centre to step inside the hollow steel framework of the structures.
The Falkirk Wheel: Situated just 3.5 miles away, this engineering marvel is the world's only rotating boat lift. It is directly connected to the Kelpies via a scenic, flat 4.5-mile walking and cycling path along the Union Canal. Note: The Falkirk Wheel also offers its own dedicated overnight motorhome stopover with chemical waste disposal for around £18/night.
The Helix Parklands: The surrounding 350 hectares feature extensive cycling tracks linked to National Cycle Routes, a large adventure play zone and splash park for children, a peaceful boating lagoon with pedalo rentals, and a wetlands nature reserve ideal for birdwatching.
EV Charging & Fuel: For motorhomes needing a charge, 26 rapid and fast EV charging points are located a 3-minute walk away at the neighboring Falkirk Stadium. Major supermarkets and fuel stations are a quick 5-to-10-minute drive into the towns of Falkirk or Grangemouth.
