The Falkirk Wheel

As the world's first and only rotating boat lift, The Falkirk Wheel is quite simply unique.

Linking two canals with water levels 115ft apart, it is the innovative and dynamic solution to an age old problem of transferring boats between levels that traditionally required a flight of 11 locks. The Falkirk Wheel is the spectacular centrepiece of the £84.5 million 'Millennium Link', the UK's largest canal restoration project, re-establishing the waterway link from east coast to west coast.

The Falkirk Wheel Booking Line: 08700 500208.

Boat trips

Pre-booked boat trips begin in the basin outside The Falkirk Wheel Visitor Centre, by boarding one of a fleet of special boats. The boat then sails into the bottom caisson of The Wheel, which commences its graceful ascent to join the Union Canal 35m above. The ascent takes approximately 15 minutes, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the stunning views of the spectacular surrounding scenery.

The boat then sails gently along the Union Canal, through the 180 metre Roughcastle tunnel, under the historic Antonine Wall, before returning for a smooth descent that gently lifts you down over the Visitor Centre, and back into the basin.

Trips last approximately one hour, and you should arrive at least 30 minutes before your allocated trip time, in order to collect your pre-booked tickets and allow time to board the boat.

The Falkirk Wheel Experience Boat Trip Ticket Prices are as follows:

Adult £8.00
Child (3-15) £4.25
Under 3 Free
Family (2 adults with 2 children) £21.50
Concession £6.50

The Falkirk Wheel Experience is very popular. Therefore, to avoid disappointment, pre-booking at least 24 hours in advance is strongly recommended. To book your trip call The Falkirk Wheel Booking Line on 08700 500 208. (Please note that the Booking Line can accept advance bookings up until 5.00pm on the day prior to the visit. The Booking Line closes at 2pm on Sundays.)

Visitor centre

Visitors to The Falkirk Wheel can enjoy a unique experience that includes a fascinating visitor centre and the newly opened Irn Bru Fun Factory. Experience this astonishing structure for yourself on a pre-booked boat trip, with plenty of time to enjoy the stunning views of the spectacular surrounding scenery.

Tickets for Boat Trips can also be booked in the Centre, although pre-booking on The Falkirk Wheel Booking Line: 08700 500208 is recommended.

Find opening times of the Falkirk Wheel Visitor Centre including when boat trips are available

After you have visited the Falkirk Wheel, why not visit The Wheelhouse pub and restaurant.

Additional info

The Falkirk Wheel is delighted to welcome groups and coach parties and in these cases pre-booking is essential by calling 08700 500 208.

The Falkirk Wheel reserves the right to operate a reduced service or cancel trips in the event of high winds or essential maintenance.

The Falkirk Wheel Visitor Centre is fully accessible, with dedicated disabled car parking spaces provided.

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