| Distance (km) | Ascent (metres) | Number of days | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 106 | 158 | 4 - 6 | |
| Start: Bowling | Finish: Edinburgh (Lochrin Basin) | ||
|
Linked to other Scotland’s Great Trail(s): John Muir Way |
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Route type/direction
Linear: Bowling to Edinburgh
Going from west to east may put the prevailing wind behind you, but the route works well in either direction.
Overview
This trail follows the towpaths of two historic canals, the Forth and Clyde (completed in 1790) and the Union (completed in 1822), connecting urban and rural landscapes between Scotland’s two largest cities. It takes in the unique Falkirk Wheel, which bridges the 35 m/115 ft vertical gap between the two canals, and passes near the world-famous Kelpies. The Forth and Clyde Canal follows a similar line to the Roman Antonine Wall, sections of which are still visible, and originally had 39 locks. The Union Canal follows a contour line (at 73 m/240 ft above sea level) and has no locks at all.
Highlights
- both canals are Scheduled Ancient Monuments with attractive heritage and wildlife
- see remaining sections of the Antonine Wall
- visit the world’s only rotating boat lift, the Falkirk Wheel
- the Kelpies (short detour from the route)
- Linlithgow Canal Centre
Be aware
- on narrow sections and under bridges, cyclists must slow or dismount for the safety of other users
- some sections can be very busy with commuters, walkers, cyclists, dog walkers, anglers and others
The challenge
The route is mostly level, on well-made surfaces so it is relatively undemanding. Most of it is equally suitable for walkers and cyclists, with some sections that are appropriate for horse riders – here is some guidance for cyclists.
The Forth and Clyde towpath follows the canal from the West Coast at Bowling, to the centre of Glasgow and Eastwards on to Falkirk, where it joins the Union Canal at the famous Falkirk Wheel. From the Falkirk Wheel, it’s possible to visit the Kelpies, before heading on towards Scotland’s capital city, where the Union Canal leads directly into the city centre. Some of the route also forms part of the John Muir Way.
Accommodation
There is a range of accommodation options in the settlements along the route for walkers, cyclists and paddlers. You can find out more about these from VisitScotland.
Support services
Local taxi companies may be able to offer a luggage transfer service between accommodation stops.
Public transport
There are good public transport links to the start and end of the route and to most settlements along the way.
For details, visit Traveline Scotland, or, for the entire UK, Traveline. For travel from anywhere to anywhere, try Rome2Rio.