Cycling in Falkirk

There are several main cycling routes in Falkirk, namely along the Canal towpaths where you can cycle from The Wheel to both Edinburgh and Glasgow, and other off road routes.

 

Remember that the towpaths do get busy and are narrow in places, so take extra care. Please take note of the Waterways Code (see below) issued by British Waterways.

Falkirk Wheel to Edinburgh

From the Falkirk Wheel you firstly have to go through the Falkirk Tunnel which is 695 metres long. It is dark inside the tunnel and although it is necessary to dismount your bike it is also advisable to use bike lights.

 

The first part of the route along the towpath is fairly uneven until you reach the Avon Aqueduct. Here you will need to dismount again as the path crosses over.

 

 Continue on until you reach Linlithgow where you cycle through the town and then back onto the towpath until you reach Ratho which is a good place to stop for a rest. The Bridge Inn serves morning coffees and bar lunches.

 

Carry on along the towpath and you will pass over the Edinburgh City Bypass. When you reach the high aqueduct which crosses the Water of Leith you should dismount again then carry on taking care on narrow sections. You are now approaching the end of the route as you  cycle towards Fountainbridge, passing through Harrison Park and the Leamington Lift bridge.

 

Falkirk Wheel to Glasgow

Join the towpath at the Falkirk Wheel and proceed onwards to Kelvin Valley which is particularly scenic. When you arrive at Kirkintilloch you need to go through an urban area before arriving at The Stables pub where you can get refreshments and food.

 

From here you will pass cemeteries and golf courses as you enter the east of Glasgow.

 

Waterways Code

• Avoid cycling where your tyres would damage the path or verges (eg. When wet or soft).
• Consider others: Anglers, walkers and boaters also use the towpaths.
• Give way to others on the towpath and warn them ofyour approach. A polite 'hello' and 'thank you' mean a lot.
• Watch out for anglers' tackle and give them time to move it before you pass.
• Dismount under low or blind bridges.
• Never race one another or perform speed trials.
• We recommend that you have third party liability insurance and equip your bike with a bell or equivalent.
• Access paths can be steep and slippery. Join or leave the towpath with care.
• You must get off and push your cycle beneath low or blind bridges, and where the path is very narrow.
• If you really have to cycle the towpath after dark, use front and rear lights (you will need lights on this route for the Falkirk Tunnel).
• Thorny hedge trimmings can cause a puncture. We recommend Kevlar-reinforced tyres.
• Only cycle on stretches where it is permitted. If you are organising a group cycle ride you must apply for permission.