Walk, Ride and Cycle in and around The Wheel and South Falkirk

easy to use

map and 12 suggested locations

something for everyone Walk, Ride and Cycle in and around The and South Falkirk Paths Key Enjoy ’s outdoors responsibly! 1 The Falkirk Wheel Shortie Everyone has the right to 2 Falkirk Wheel to Rough be on most land and Castle Roman Fort inland water providing Falkirk Wheel 3 Falkirk Wheel to they act responsibly. Rough Castle Your access rights and Roughcastle 1 Community Woodland responsibilities are Roman Fort Falkirk 4 Falkirk Wheel to explained fully in the 2 3 Rough Castle Scottish Outdoor Access Community Woodland Code. 5 5 Local Loop Whether you’re in the 6 Bantaskine Park outdoors or managing 6 Circular the outdoors, the key 7 The Falkirk Tunnel things are to: Finding your way 4 9 Callendar House Circular Take responsibility for A map & Park 8 Hallglen Local Loop your own actions Take a close look at 7 9 Falkirk Wheel to Battle Respect the interests the map for each of Falkirk Monument of other people route. This should be 10 10 Falkirk Wheel to Care for the all you need to find Shieldhill Circular environment the start point and 8 11 Falkirk Wheel and get on your way. OS Community Woodland Visit Explorer map 349 12 Hallglen Circular www.outdooraccess- covers the area. 12 Callendar Estate Cycle scotland.com or contact Trails your local Scottish Natural Heritage office. Signs 11 Look out for sign posts and interpretation boards giving more information along the way. This leaflet has information Fort and the , and choose one that suits The Falkirk Wheel about 12 routes in and follow one of the old your own interests, needs around the Falkirk Wheel drover’s roads, enjoy our It’s up to you and abilities. Some of The world’s first rotating boatlift, the Falkirk Wheel There are 12 routes and South Falkirk. Many woodlands and farmlands, these paths follow great of these paths have been the towpaths and the is an amazing feat of engineering. It lifts boats up 35 in this leaflet, with short family-friendly metres using the same amount of power as eight information on green improved by Falkirk Falkirk Wheel. routes, whilst for others Council’s Development toasters. transport options, Take a wander along you’ll need a full day to path surfaces, Services, Callendar Estate explore the sites and Annual closure November. Check and Central Scotland your local paths and you www.thefalkirkwheel.co.uk for more information. gradients, parking will find some great sounds of South Falkirk’s and facilities. Just Forest Trust with help fantastic path network. Opening times and support from local countryside, wildlife, choose a route that fantastic views, and a Visitor Centre, Café & Inner Basin suits your interest landowners and farmers. While you’re out and about Summer (April - Oct): 10.00am - 5.30pm wealth of history, waiting exploring these paths, why and ability and enjoy This is your chance to get to be discovered. Winter (Nov - March): Wed - Sun 11am - 4pm the paths in and not visit to the Falkirk Closed Mon & Tues out and about to take a Wheel, Rough Castle around the Falkirk journey through our history Which site should I visit? Tunnel & Swing Bridge Wheel and South Roman Fort, or Callendar - explore our Roman Simply read through the House and Park. April - Oct: 8.30am - 7.30pm Falkirk. heritage, visit Rough Castle following suggested routes Nov - March 8.30am - dusk 1. The Falkirk Wheel Shortie Key Starting point Main path Alternative paths Bench Parking Forth & Clyde Canal Railway line Vistors Centre & Tourist Information The Falkirk Wheel Toilets Disabled amenities Disabled parking Tunnel

From the top of the Falkirk Wheel enjoy fantastic panoramic views of the Forth valley and the hills beyond. The tunnel at Roughcastle and the canal locks provide more interest, but 2 Continue along the please take care near The Lowland the water. Union Canal towpath, through the short The canals were built using Access Information Distance Finding Your Way tunnel and follow the manpower from the Suggested route - 1km (0.6 mile) Start at the Falkirk path to the bend. navvies. These migrant Bus: Number 3 bus to The Falkirk From here you can Wheel; for bus timetable information Other routes (see map). Wheel Visitor Centre Irish and Highland workers watch the canal boats came to Central Scotland contact Traveline on 0871 200 2233 or 1 From the main using the two locks. visit www.traveline.org.uk. Path information entrance to the looking for work. They dug The canal continues out the canals using picks, This route is easily accessible using Visitor Centre take at this same level all Train: Falkirk High Station - 4km (2.5 surfaced paths with moderate inclines. the path uphill shovels, wheelbarrows and the way to early gunpowder. miles) along towpath; Camelon Station However, the alternative return route signposted “Union 50km/31miles away. 2km (1.2 miles). has some steeper gradients over the Canal and Antonine Burke and Hare, the tunnel entrance. If you feel like a rest, Wall”. Instead of 3 Return the same way, infamous Edinburgh body Cycle: Towpaths alongside Forth and take an extended push up the hill to a branching off to the or from the seating snatchers, were navvies on Clyde Canal and Union Canal. stone seating area. The route is then right under the canal area take the zig-zag the Union Canal near along the canal towpath as far as the aqueduct continue path up over the Brightons. two locks returning via the same route. uphill to reach a tunnel entrance and Car: North & South car parks - free The Union and Forth & parking. But please note the bridge stone seating area down the other side Facilities with views out over to pass under the Clyde Canals are managed connecting the North car park and the for public benefit by British basin closes at 8pm. Toilets, refreshments and Visitor Centre the top of the Falkirk aqueduct back to the at the Falkirk Wheel. Wheel. Visitor Centre. Waterways. 2. Falkirk Wheel to Rough Castle Roman Fort Forth & Clyde Canal Access Information From the newest to the oldest - enjoy this circular route through restored countryside Bus : Number 3 bus to The visiting constructions created two millennia Falkirk Wheel; for bus apart but which are only 1km (0.6 mile) from The Falkirk Wheel timetable information each other. This route also gives good views of contact Traveline on 0871 the hills to the north. 200 2233 or visit www.traveline.org.uk . Finding Your Way Train : Falkirk High Station - Start at the Falkirk Wheel Visitor Centre 4km (2.5 miles) along 1 Take the path uphill signposted “Union Canal towpath; Camelon Station and Antonine Wall”. Branch off to the right, 2km (1.2 miles). passing underneath the canal aqueduct. Cycle : Towpaths alongside 2 Follow this path for a short distance then take and the surfaced path downhill to your right which Union Canal. sweeps round through Rough Castle Community Woodland to Roughcastle Roman Fort. This Union Canal Car: North & South car woodland was once the site of a huge open cast parks - free parking. But mining area. Explore the remains of the Roman Key please note the bridge Fort at your leisure; there are interpretative Bench Toilets Vistors Centre connecting the North car panels by the main features. & Tourist Starting point Parking Disabled Information park and the basin closes amenities at 8pm. 3 Cross over the top of the fort at the central Main path Antonine Wall Tunnel grassy area near the central interpretation Disabled panel. This will lead you to a surfaced path next Alternative Railway line parking Distance paths Suggested route - to the railway bridge. At this sign posted junction 3km (1.8 miles). turn left. Easier option - 4 Follow the main path beside the railway, go left 2 km (1.2 miles) at the first junction and heading straight on to enter The Falkirk Wheel site. Other routes (see map).

Path information Rough Castle Roman Fort This route generally makes use of compacted stone The best preserved fort on surfaced paths. There is one the Antonine Wall, Rough short grass section which Castle could have been used may be muddy and the by up to 500 men. There Roman Fort is mown grass. were gateways, ditches, There are gentle slopes but roadways, ramparts and no gates or stiles with two various buildings, which now narrow gaps at the exits show as earthworks in the from the Roman Fort. grass. Look out for the lilia - stakes which defended the Facilities north of the fort. Toilets, refreshments and Visitor Centre at the Falkirk For more information visit Wheel. www.historic-scotland.gov.uk 3. Taking it Easy: Falkirk Wheel to Rough Castle Community Woodland Key Starting point Forth & Main path Clyde Canal Alternative paths Bench Parking The Falkirk Wheel Antonine Wall Railway line Vistors centre & Tourist Information Toilets Disabled amenities Disabled parking Tunnel Union Canal

A short circular, countryside the nearest pylon. Rough Castle route near the Falkirk Wheel Community with good views 3 At the junction at the start of the woodland follow the Woodland Finding Your Way path straight ahead, Start at the Falkirk Wheel passing beneath the power The woodland Access Information Visitor Centre lines. Continue along to the was created by 1 Take the path uphill next signpost and a bench Coal Contractors Bus : Number 3 bus to The Falkirk Distance signposted “Union Canal and then turn left up the on the restored Wheel; for bus timetable information Suggested route - 2km (1.2 miles) and Antonine Wall”. hill. Enjoy the sights and opencast site. A contact Traveline on 0871 200 2233 or variety of native Other routes (see map) Continue straight up the hill sounds of this section of visit www.traveline.org.uk . to the seating area by the the route - listen to the tree species Path information tunnel. There are good birds, and look around as have been Train : Falkirk High Station - 4km (2.5 planted over its miles) along towpath; Camelon Station The first path and zigzag path are hard views from here looking the views open up. stone with most paths surfaced with over the Falkirk Wheel to 60 hectares. 2km (1.2 miles). 4 At the T-junction turn right It offers a compacted stone. The zigzag path over the hills beyond. parallel to the railway, Cycle : Towpaths alongside Forth and the tunnel is steep, but you can avoid it. network of paths Clyde Canal and Union Canal. 2 Take the zig-zag path over turning next right to head suitable for There are no stiles or gates and there the tunnel entrance and down the hill back to The are some benches. walking, cycling Car: North & South car parks - free head down the path away Falkirk Wheel. Back near and horse riding, parking. But please note the bridge Facilities from the canal for a short the Falkirk Wheel, you can seats and fine connecting the North car park and the Toilets, refreshments and Visitor Centre distance. Turn left off the turn left to pass beneath views. basin closes at 8pm. at the Falkirk Wheel. main path and head the canal aqueduct and towards the signpost and return to the Visitor Centre. 4. A Little Longer: Falkirk Wheel to Rough Castle Community Woodland Forth & Clyde Canal A long circular countryside route taking you away from the Falkirk Wheel to visit woodlands old and The Falkirk Wheel new, and giving many chances of views over the Forth valley and the hills beyond. Finding Your Way Start at the Falkirk Wheel Visitor Centre 1 Take the path uphill signposted “Union Canal and Antonine Wall”. Continue straight up the hill through the Roughcastle Tunnel, and continue past the two locks along the canal towpath to the Union Canal first bridge (Station House Bridge). 2 Leave the canal and cross the Access Information bridge. Pass on through the woodland and, at the sign posted Bus : Number 3 bus Distance junction, turn right along the to The Falkirk Wheel; Suggested route Drove Loan. for bus timetable 5km (3 miles) 3 Further on a gate allows access information contact through the field. Follow this Traveline on 0871 Other routes (see map) path which leads down to a gate 200 2233 or visit into Rough Castle Community Key www.traveline.org.uk . Path information Woodland. Starting point Train : Falkirk High Path surfaces are 4 Turn right then first left up the Main path Rough Castle opencast mine Station - 4km (2.5 variable though most hill. At the top of the hill turn miles) along towpath; are surfaced. The right to descend to the road. Alternative paths This mine was once the largest excavation in Camelon Station 2km path gradients are Cross the road carefully and Bench Scotland. It closed in 1996. (1.2 miles). also variable, but use the path out of the car park sloping stretches to climb the next hill. At the Parking Antonine Wall Cycle : Towpaths are short. There are alongside Forth and signposted junction continue Antonine Wall This Roman defensive fortification, built about seats in Rough straight on down to the bridge Clyde Canal and Castle Community 142AD, stretches 61km (38 miles) from Carriden Union Canal. under the railway. If you wish Railway line on the to on the Clyde. Woodland. to explore the Roman Fort you Car: North & South Vistors Centre & It was constructed mostly of turf on a stone base, are now only 100 metres from Tourist Information probably with a timber rampart. There is a ditch to car parks - free Facilities it down a signposted woodland parking. But please the north, with a cobbled roadway to the South, Toilets, refreshments path. Toilets now known as the ‘Military Way’. note the bridge and Visitor Centre at connecting the North the Falkirk Wheel. 5 Follow the main path beside Disabled amenities Forts along the wall, including the one at Rough car park and the the railway and go left at the first Disabled parking Castle, are approximately 3km (2 miles) apart. By basin closes at 8pm. junction. Head straight on to 165AD the Antonine Wall had been abandoned, with enter The Falkirk Wheel site. Tunnel the Romans retreat to the safety of Hadrian’s Wall. 5. Tamfourhill Local Loop Key Starting point Access Information Main path Bus : Number 3 bus Alternative paths to The Falkirk Wheel; for bus timetable Bench information contact Parking Traveline on 0871 Forth & 200 2233 or visit Clyde Canal Antonine Wall www.traveline.org.uk . The Falkirk Wheel Railway line Train : Falkirk High Station - 4km (2.5 Vistors Centre miles) along towpath; & Tourist Camelon Station - Information 2km (1.2 miles). Toilets Cycle : Towpaths Disabled alongside Forth and amenities Clyde Canal and Union Canal. Disabled parking Car: North & South car Tunnel parks - free parking. But please note the bridge connecting the North car park and the Union Canal South Falkirk basin closes at 8pm. Environmental Action Plan Distance Suggested route - The legacy of our 3 km (1.8 miles). industrial heritage has left its mark on our Other routes landscape - the mines, (see map). factories and smoke Path information stacks may be long This route follows gone, but they left surfaced paths but A circular countryside route through woodland behind a degraded they are rough, and on surfaced paths. landscape. can be muddy in Finding Your Way The South Falkirk places. There are Environmental Action some moderate Start at the Falkirk Wheel Visitor Centre 3 Follow this path for a short time until you come to another gate on the roadside. At the road, turn right. Plan has restored the slopes up through 1 From the top entrance to Falkirk Wheel on countryside in South the woodland and Please take care - there is no pavement here and Tamfourhill Road, head directly onto Lime Road, past traffic comes from both directions. Falkirk for folk who several gates. Maryfield Place and up onto the canal bridge. Follow live, work and visit the the Right of Way uphill towards Drove Loan. When 4 Cross the railway bridge at the traffic lights and take area - with the Facilities you reach the junction turn right. the path to the left then take the 1st path on your right. creation of 13km of Toilets, refreshments 2 Further on a gate allows access through the field. 5 At the path junction turn right and this will lead you paths for people and and Visitor Centre at better habitats for the Falkirk Wheel. Follow this path which leads down to a gate into along the top of the Falkirk Wheel and back to the Rough Castle Community Woodland. Visitor Centre. wildlife. 6. Bantaskine Park Circular Key Starting point Main path Alternative paths Bench Parking Railway line Tunnel Steps Falkirk High Station

An easy circular route towpath until you reach Bantaskine Park with a few steep inclines a barrier gate with through the woodlands and diverging paths. Formerly the Policy grassland of Bantaskine Grounds of Park. There are excellent 4 Take the path on your Bantaskine Estate, views over Falkirk to the right downhill and away the park has the Access Information hills beyond. Return along from the canal. At the end feel of a country the Union Canal towpath. of this path you will reach park, even though Bus : For bus timetable information Car: Car Park at Drossie Road by Falkirk Greenbank Road. it is within the Finding Your Way contact Traveline on 0871 200 2233 or High Station. 5 Turn left and head uphill boundaries of the visit www.traveline.org.uk Start at Falkirk High Station back towards the Union town. There are Number 18 to the Station (infrequent). Distance Suggested route - 4 km (2.5 miles). 1 There are many access Canal’s finish point. This several interesting Frequent bus service to Glen Brae at the points to this route, but for is a steep section. woodland and bottom of High Station Road - Numbers Other routes (see map). ease, begin at Drossie canal side paths 5, 9, 12/13 and 17 pass this way. Road car park at Falkirk 6 Once back at the canal along with open Path information High Station. follow the signpost that areas suitable for Or Number 3 to Gartcows Road, and All the paths on this route are surfaced reads “Bantaskin Public picnics. walk up the road sign posted ‘Seagull with compacted stone. There are gentle 2 From the car park follow Estate, Woodland walks Trust’, under the railway, and over the gradients with a short, steeper section the underpass under the and Battle of Falkirk Though the canal to the Boathouse on Greenbank Road and level back railway and take the path Monument.” Mansion house (this reduces the walk by 1 km). on your right up to the was demolished along the towpath. There are no gates 7 Keep to the lower path or stiles, and there are occasional Union Canal. in the 1950’s the through the woodland windows were Train : Edinburgh - trains: benches throughout, up to 1km apart. 3 At the canal turn right and until you return to the Falkirk High Station. saved and are now follow the towpath. Seagull Trust Boat House on display Facilities Continue along the beside the canal. Cross in the Howgate Cycle : Towpaths alongside Forth and Toilets (limited facilities) at Falkirk towpath under the stone over the bridge again and Clyde Canal and Union Canal. Shopping Centre in High Station. bridge (Walkers Bridge 62) head back towards Falkirk Falkirk. carrying on along the High Station. 7. The Falkirk Tunnel Circular Key Starting point Access Information Main path Bus : For bus timetable information Alternative paths contact Traveline on 0871 200 2233 or Bench visit www.traveline.org.uk . Number 18 to the Station (infrequent). Parking Frequent bus service to Glen Brae at Railway line the bottom of High Station Road– Numbers 5, 9, 12/13 and 17 pass this Tunnel way. Or Number 3 to Gartcows Road, and Canal bridge walk uproad sign posted ‘Seagull Trust’, Falkirk High Station under the railway, and over the canal to the Seagull Trust Boathouse (this reduces the walk by 1 km). Train : Edinburgh - Glasgow trains: Falkirk High Station. Cycle : Towpaths alongside Forth and Clyde Canal and Union Canal. Car: Car Park at Drossie Road by Falkirk High Station.

Distance Union Canal Suggested route - 3 km (1.8 miles). Other routes (see map). Path information These are mostly compacted stone Please take care as lighting is poor and the path Falkirk Tunnel Facts paths. In the tunnel, the path is in the tunnel is wet. slippery and uneven, and you may need At 630m long and at least a waterproof or umbrella. A torch can 2 Once you have left the tunnel follow the path 3.6m high, Falkirk Tunnel be handy for picking out the features of under “The Laughin’ Greetin’ bridge”. Take the was the longest canal the tunnel or in case the lights are not An Underground / Overground route 1st path on your left and head up onto the tunnel built in Scotland. on. There is a handrail. Cyclists should visiting the spectacular lit tunnel and bridge. There is a signpost here directing you to dismount. returning over the hill above it. “Slamannan Road, The Union Canal & Falkirk It was built because the High Station”. owner of Callendar House The return route over the tunnel would not allow the canal follows a trodden path which may be Finding Your Way 3 Cross the road and skirt the grass playing fields, Start at Falkirk High Station to be dug within sight of muddy. and then cross Lionthorn Road. Follow the path the house. There is a steep slope up from the 1 Follow the path through the until you come to the ash playing fields. underpass below the railway line The tunnel was cut using towpath and some steps at the end of 4 Follow the sign post and take the path on the picks, shovels and the route. and then take the path on your right up towards the Union Canal. At the left of the playing fields down to Slamannan gunpowder through solid Road. At the road, turn left and head uphill. limestone and millstone Facilities canal turn left and head into the Falkirk Tunnel. You should be able 5 Follow the signpost directing you to the path grit. It was lit as part of (limited facilities) at Falkirk High the project Station. to see the stalactites and changes across the road that leads to Falkirk High Station in the rock and tunnel lining. and the Union Canal. in 2000. 8. Hallglen Local Loop Key Starting point Main path Alternative paths Railway line Hallglen Tunnel Glen Village Canal bridge Hallglen Primary School Union Canal Halglen Community Centre

An easy circular route 3 Notice the cobbled taking in the Union spillway or weir, where Canal towpath which excess water from the could also be tackled as canal joins the Glen a continuation of the Burn in times of heavy Falkirk Tunnel Circular rain. There are also two (Route 7). winding points where the canal is wider to Laughin’ Greetin’ Bridge Finding Your Way allow boats to turn or Start at Glenburn Road ‘wind’ round. If you look up at the first opposite Beauly Court bridge east of the Falkirk 4 Pass over the spillway Tunnel (bridge 61), you 1 Cross Glenburn Road and continue along the will see faces carved into carefully, or use the Access Information canal towpath. As you the top of the arch. Station - 1.5 km (1 mile). The cobbled weir is subway, to reach the approach bridge no.59 Bus : Bus Number 5 loops rough and may be under old road to Glen Village. take the path that leads The Laughin’ face looks Car : No designated east where the contractor through Hallglen along parking areas. flowing water after heavy Just before the houses off to your left. rain. Take care when of Hallglen Terrace, digging the level canal Glenburn Road. For bus Distance timetable information crossing it. turn left, taking a steep 5 The path now goes had an easy job all the contact Traveline on Suggested route - sign posted path down downhill slightly. Follow way to Edinburgh. There is one short this under the railway 0871 200 2233 or visit 1.3 km (0.8 mile). rough and steep section to the Union Canal. The Greetin’ or crying face www.traveline.org.uk. bridge and cross over Other routes down to canal. 2 At canal turn left the burn via a wooden looks west, where the Cycle : Towpaths (see map). towards Hallglen or contractor had a hard job Facilities bridge. Continue along alongside Forth and alternatively, turn right the path as it heads of digging the tunnel Clyde Canal and Union Path information Toilets at Hallglen to see the Laughin’ through the hillside All these paths are Community Centre, back up to Glenburn Canal. Greetin’ bridge (number Road - turn left to get followed by 11 locks down surfaced, mainly with Islands Crescent, 61) and to explore the to meet the Forth & Clyde Train : Falkirk High compacted stone. Tel 01324 503747 back to your starting Falkirk Tunnel. point. Canal. 9. Falkirk Wheel to Battle of Falkirk Monument Access Information Bus : Number 3 bus to The Falkirk Wheel; for bus timetable The Falkirk information contact Wheel Traveline on 0871 200 2233 or visit www.traveline.org.uk. Train : Falkirk High Station - 4km (2.5 Falkirk miles) along towpath; Camelon Station 2km (1.2 miles).

Tamfourhill Cycle : Towpaths Wood alongside Forth and Battle of Clyde Canal and Union Falkirk Canal. Monument 7 Take the main path Road, take the 2nd into Tamfourhill Wood, path on your right Car: North & South car Canada parks - free parking. Wood passing a pond on your which will lead you left. There is seating back towards the But please note the here if you wish to on the Union canal. bridge connecting the North car park and the take a rest. When you Cross over the lock basin closes at 8pm. come to the path and turn left. This path crossroads, carry on will take you back to straight ahead passing the Falkirk Wheel. Distance Key a viewpoint of the or Suggested route - 7 km (4.5 miles). Starting point Ochil Hills. 10 When the tunnel A circular route from 5 When you reach the is closed: Falkirk Wheel, through viewpoint follow the Other routes (see Main path 8 Keep following this Continue to the main map). Bantaskin Park and past road around the side of path and continue Alternative paths road and turn right on the Battle of Falkirk the private house. through a field gate Bonnyhill Road. Please Path information Monument. Instead of continuing Railway line to farmland. Continue take care - there is no This route follows Finding Your Way up the main drive, on this field edge path pavement here and mainly surfaced paths, follow the sign posted Tunnel past the red-roofed traffic comes from with a couple of un- Start at the Falkirk Wheel grass path along the surfaced sections Visitor Centre Canal bridge barn in the field on both directions. southern edge of the your left. Just past which can get muddy. walled garden. Railway Station this you will come to a 11 Cross the railway Some of the tracks are 1-3 As for route 11. bridge at the traffic very uneven, and care 6 Cross over the small set of gates. Follow 4 Cross the road at the Parking lights and take the should be taken when wooden bridge then the path to your right crossing any roads entrance to Bantaskin Antonine Wall and continue downhill path to the left. Take follow the track on the 1st path on your along this route. There Park. Take the the left over a second into Rough Castle are some moderate- signposted path which Mountain Bike Trail Community Woodland. right signposted “The bridge. This bridge (see route 12) Falkirk Wheel”. At the steep slopes on parts cuts through farmland will bring you to of the route. to Slamannan Road 9 When the tunnel path junction take the Greenbank Road and gate and follow the and takes you to the is open: route on the right and Facilities the Battle of Falkirk path towards Canada this will lead you back viewpiont in Bantaskin Monument. Cross the Near the bottom of the Toilets, refreshments Estate. Wood and Tamfourhill hill near Lochgreen to the Falkirk Wheel road, go through the Wood. and Visitor Centre at and Visitor Centre. the Falkirk Wheel. 10. Falkirk Wheel to Shieldhill Circular The Falkirk Wheel Forth & Clyde Canal Falkirk Access Information Tamfourhill Bus : Number 3 bus to The Falkirk Wheel; for bus timetable information contact Traveline on 0871 200 2233 or visit Callendar House www.traveline.org.uk . & Park Cycle : Towpaths alongside Forth and Clyde Canal and ‘Battle of Union Canal. Falkirk’ Monument Hallglen Train : Falkirk High Station - 4km (2.5 miles) along towpath; Camelon Station 2km (1.2 miles). The ‘Wee Car: North & South car Glen Farm Shop’ Union Canal parks - free parking. But Farm please note the bridge Ice connecting the North car Cream Key park and the basin closes at Parlour 8pm. Starting point Distance Main path Suggested route - 16 Alternative paths km (10 miles). Shieldhill Alternative path Other routes (see map). over tunnel Path information Parking Mainly on surfaced paths Antonine Wall with three short sections 16km (10 miles) route Turn left and follow the unsurfaced. These can get taking in the water, woods Union Canal towpath Railway line muddy. The towpath is and history of South passing the Seagull Trust Tunnel relatively flat, but there are Falkirk. Boat House, Falkirk High some steep sections leading Station and the Falkirk Canal bridge up from the Canal towards Finding Your Way Tunnel. If you prefer not Falkirk High Station Shieldhill, and through Start at the Falkirk Wheel to go through the Tunnel, Cleuch Plantation. Visitor Centre there is a rough path that Falkirk Grahamston Station 1 From the top entrance to takes you up and over Facilities (see Route 7). Please note Toilets, refreshments and Falkirk Wheel car park on Callendar Estate Tamfourhill Road, head the towpath is muddy in Cycle Trails Visitor Centre at the Falkirk places. Wheel. directly onto Lime Road, past Maryfield Place and Mountain Bike Trail 2 Stay on the towpath (see route 12) up onto the canal bridge. passing over the spillway 10. Falkirk Wheel to Shieldhill Circular (continued)

(cobbled section) and Plantation. Old Drove Road continue alongside the canal. After 5 km (3 5 Follow the path to Cattle (and later sheep) miles) you will reach Glen Farm road. Cross from the Highlands and Bridge No. 57. Follow under the road and Islands were driven to the path up and over the follow the track down market along routes bridge sign-posted “The through Easter Strip which became known Old Drove Road”. Cross woodland. You will go as drovers roads. the stile at the far side of through a number of the bridge, and then head gates on this route. At A vast network of over a short rough grass the path junction turn these drove roads section to the kissing right following the path crossed the Highlands gate ahead. downhill through Kilbean and converged on Wood and Lionthorn “tryst” (meeting place) 3 The kissing gate leads Community Woodland. sites such as the you into a woodland and Turn left on Lionthorn Falkirk Tryst. onto a compacted stone Road and continue up the The cattle were path. Follow this up the hill taking care when you sold at these Trysts hill to your left and cross Slamannan Road. and then taken through another kissing Follow the signposted south to grazing gate. Continue up the hill path to Lochgreen Road. areas like those in until you reach a path Northumberland and junction. Take the short 6 Take care as you cross Lochgreen Road, the Yorkshire Dales steep unsurfaced path on where they were your right which will take and then head into Bantaskine Park. Turn grazed and fattened you onto the farm track after their long past Pirleyhill Farm. left along the surfaced path to the Battle of journeys. They were 4 At the end of this track Falkirk Monument. Again, then driven south to turn right and follow the take care as you cross the London markets. path down through the road to take the path Mavisbank Wood. There to the Drove Loan. Along The Wee Farm Shop are good views across this path turn left and the Forth here and a at the path crossroads, Visit bench where you can turn right taking the www.theweefarmshop take a well earned rest. path back downhill to for more information At the foot of this path the Union Canal. When and opening times. adjacent to Falkirk Wood you reach the canal turn left to cross towpath, retrace the Glen Farm Shieldhill Road and first part of this route to Ice cream Parlour & follow the Public Right of take you back to the Farm Shop Way to Cleuch Falkirk Wheel. OPENING SOON Callendar Estate Cycle Trails Serving quality coffee and cakes as well An exciting new initiative by Callendar Estate to as ice cream made develop a network of mountain bike trails in the from milk produced on woodlands to the South of Falkirk. the farm. For more information please visit www.glenfarmice www.callendarestate.co.uk cream.co.uk/ 11. Falkirk Wheel Community Woodland Circular

Access Information The Bus : Number 3 bus Distance Falkirk Forth & Clyde Canal to The Falkirk Wheel; Suggested route - Wheel for bus timetable 16 km (10 miles). information contact Falkirk Traveline on 0871 200 Other routes (see 2233 or visit map). www.traveline.org.uk. Union Canal Path information Train : Falkirk High This route follows Station - 4km (2.5 mainly surfaced paths, Bantaskine Estate miles) along towpath; with a couple of Camelon Station 2km un-surfaced sections (1.2 miles). which can get muddy. ‘Battle of Some of the tracks are Falkirk’ Cycle : Towpaths very uneven, and care Monument Lionthorn alongside Forth and should be taken when Clyde Canal and Union crossing any roads Canal. along this route. There Car: North & South car are some moderate- parks - free parking. But steep slopes on parts please note the bridge of the route. connecting the North car park and the basin Facilities closes at 8pm. Toilets, refreshments and Visitor Centre at Paintball Site the Falkirk Wheel. Key Starting point Auchengean Main path Farm Beam Alternative paths Farm Parking Antonine Wall

16kms (10 miles) of paths follow the steep Railway line and tracks through South surfaced path leading Tunnel Falkirk’s Community uphill towards the Woodlands at Lionthorn, Union Canal. Pass Canal bridge Drum Wood and Rough through the tunnel and Falkirk High Station Castle. follow the canal on the main towpath. There is Callendar Estate Finding Your Way seating at various points Cycle Trails Start at the Falkirk Wheel along the canal. Mountain Bike Trail Visitor Centre 2 Cross bridge (no.62) (see route 12) 1 From the Visitor Centre onto a wide track and 11. Falkirk Wheel Community Woodland Circular (continued)

head uphill passing the through the gate which the next junction. Seagull Trust Boat will take you onto a House on your right. long farmland track. 9 Take the path on your Continue uphill Continue straight along left that leads down crossing over a bridge the track for into Roughcastle just before approaching approximately 1.5 km Community Woodland. a private house and (1 mile) passing 10 When the tunnel is viewpoint. There is through several gates open, follow the path seating on the route as you go. This brings downhill and take the and at the viewpoint. you to Slamannan Road 2nd path on your right. Take the track which very close to the This takes you to The passes behind the Westerglen Transmitter Union Canal tunnel and house and follow the Station. the Falkirk Wheel. main drive to or Lochgreen Road. 6 Cross the road and continue on the farm 11 When the tunnel is closed continue to the 4 Cross the road at the track for about 1.5 km (1 mile) passing main road and turn entrance to Bantaskin right on Bonnyhill Road. Park. Take the sign Auchengean Farm until you reach a path Please take care - there posted path which cuts is no pavement here through farmland to junction. Take the path to the right which winds and traffic comes from Slamannan Road. Cross both directions. the road and turn right through Drum Wood. towards the bus stop. This brings you out 12 Cross the railway Turn left and head onto a farm track. Turn bridge at the traffic downhill following the right down the farm lights and take the main road which passes track which brings you path to the left. Take through Lionthorn out onto Lochgreen the 1st path on your housing estate. As Road. right signposted “The you near the end of the 7 Turn right on to a new Falkirk Wheel”. At the housing estate on your section of path that path junction take the right you will see the runs parallel with route on the right and entrance to Lionthorn Lochgreen Road. After this will lead you back Community Woodland. 500m cross Lochgreen to the Falkirk Wheel Cross the road and take Road and follow the and Visitor Centre. the path which follows woodland track through to the left of the Drum Wood to a T Bean Geese woodland. junction. To avoid disturbance to 5 Cross over the small 8 At the T junction turn Bean Geese please use wooden bridge over the right and follow the route through the Glen Burn and follow path through farmland woodland from mid the zig–zag route uphill with Bonnyhill Farm September to early March. and through Kilbean on your left. Continue Woodland. When on this path until you For further information on you reach the top of the come to a junction. Bean Geese see path it turns right and Take the path on your www.bean-geese. heads west. Pass right and continue until pwp.blueyonder.co.uk 12. Callendar Estate Cycle Trails Falkirk Wheel www.callendarestate.co.uk

At Callendar Estate we have built a network of single track mountain bike trails to Union Canal Falkirk complement the walking and Roughcastle High horse riding routes already Car Park Railway available. Canada Station Wood Bantaskine The cycle trails are easy Car Park family friendly routes that Greenrig wind in and out of the Car Park attractive woodland on the Lionthorn edge of Falkirk. For your safety Car Park and enjoyment they are designed to be ridden one way. Please follow the directions of the arrows shown on the plan Craigieburn and the on site way marking. Wood Please also be considerate of Kilbean other users of the wider path Wood network and be aware that, whilst the cycle trails have Key been designed for mountain Auchengean Easy single track biking other users may also be Wood present. Moderate single track Directions Challenging single track The trail network is accessed Auchengean Trail (Challenging single track - Link path multi use from the Greenrig car park, see map 6.8km (4.25 miles)) Track direction 3 miles from the centre of Falkirk. From the centre of Canada Trail (Easy single track - Intended to be ridden as an extension to the Parking the town follow the signs see map 4.1km (2.5 miles)) Craigieburn trail, adding an extra 3.4km to the trail. for Slamannan. Once on An easy graded route suitable for most cyclists. This is for more experienced cyclists with a reasonable level of fitness and involves a fairly Bespoke Community Slamannan Road take the There are no steep hills, just gentle ups and Development Company 3rd exit off the mini downs which let you flow along. Look out for strenuous climb to the top of Auchengean wood roundabout on to Lochgreen Charlie’s Stanes on the way which marks the site with a rewarding fast descent. Watch out for the The cycle trails and paths Road and continue on for a of the Battle of Falkirk in 1746. An optional board two short sections of raised board walk. If in any at Callendar Estate are mile to the car park. The trails walk provides a bit of a challenge for those doubt get off and walk. managed by the BeSpoke can also be accessed from the wishing to test their skill level. Community Development Kilbean Trail (Moderate single track - Company, a community Falkirk Wheel and Falkirk High see map 3km (1.8 miles)) Station following the Union Craigieburn Trail (Moderate single track - interest company working Canal tow path. see map 3.4km (2 miles)) The Kilbean trail is accessed from the Lionthorn car in partnership with A slightly more challenging route with a few park and involves a steady climb flowed by an Callendar Estate to gentle hills to work the heart and lungs and a few exciting descent. We have added in some technical manage, maintain, twisting drops for a bit more adrenaline. The challenges, including steps and big berms as optional promote and enhance the route winds through Craigburn Wood and returns extras. The top part of the trail is graded red due to path network. For more to the start through Howierig Moss, an important its steep descent and fast switch back corners and information about the site for nature conservation. Please take care is for more experienced cyclists. To extend the ride company and about how to where the trail crosses the main road follow the farm track passed Westerglen Transmitter get involved go to for 1.8km to join the Auchengean Trail. www.bespokefalkirk.co.uk Walk, Ride and Cycle in and around The Falkirk Wheel and South Falkirk

Getting There : Get your copy of the Green Travel Map at www.falkirk.gov.uk or call 01324 504950. By Foot: If you live nearby. By Cycle: Sustrans National Cycle Network Route 76. Cycle route information available from www.sustrans.org.uk 0845 1130065 Towpaths along Forth & Clyde Canal and Union Canal . By Rail: Nearest Train Stations are at Camelon, Falkirk Grahamston or Falkirk High . By Bus: For further information on bus times, numbers, routes, etc call Traveline on 0871 200 2233 or visit www.traveline.org.uk . By Car: Follow signs to The Falkirk Wheel . 0 1 0 2 . l Thank you To all organisations, landowners and local i c n u

communities for their cooperation and support. o C k r i k l a

Further information F , s e c www.falkirk.gov.uk i v r e www.thefalkirkwheel.co.uk S d o o

www.visitscotland.com h r u o

www.forthstimeline.com b h g i www.callendarestate.co.uk e N d www.bespokefalkirk.co.uk n a e t a r o p r

For more information contact Falkirk Council’s Access o C , t Officer, Development Services on 01324 504950. i n U s n l i o c i t n a u c i o n C u k r m i k m l o a F C y y b b AN ' E F R A d O d e e c n u g i d s o e r D P