Just because we’re watching the pennies doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy a day out every now and again. When the kids are on school holidays, even a simple day out can get expensive by the time you’ve included entry fees, snacks, and getting there in the first place. That’s why Visit Scotland is highlighting some of the many free attractions north of the border. Whether you live nearby, or happen to be visiting, these spots offer a great day out while being a little bit kinder to your wallet.
The Kelpies
You’ve probably seen pictures of them on the internet, but seeing them in the flesh, as it were, is truly breathtaking. These two magnificent horse head sculptures, each 100 feet tall and weighing 300 tonnes, are the largest equine sculptures in the world. Since their completion in 2013, they have become a major attraction.
The Kelpies are the work of artist Andy Scott and are modeled on two Clydesdales, the heavy horse breed that once provided the key support for Scottish industry. As for the name… that is from the mythological creature from Scottish folklore. The Kelpie is a water spirit that can shape-shift, often taking on the form of a horse.
To see the Kelpies and to enjoy a day out, head to Helix Park in Falkirk. It’s 860 acres of reclaimed land that has been transformed into greenspace, woodlands, and waterways. There are miles and miles of trails to explore, as well as wetlands, play areas, and a visitor center. Visitors can also take a guided tour inside the Kelpies. The entire park is open 365 days a year, and admission is free.
The carparks at the Helix tend to get full quickly, but free parking can be found at nearby Falkirk Football Club on non-match days. From there it’s just a two-minute walk to the park.
The Falkirk Wheel
Just a short drive from the Kelpies is an attraction that is absolutely hypnotic. I could watch videos of the Falkirk Wheel all day and never stop being amazed at the feat of engineering. It’s truly earned its spot as a tourist attraction, drawing some 500,000 visitors a year.
The Falkirk Wheel is the only rotating boat lift in the world. With just one half turn, it connects the Forth & Clyde Canal with the Union Canal, literally carrying boats through the air to do so. It’s an absolute marvel. The Wheel opened in 2002 and made life instantly easier for those traveling along the canals. Before it was put into operation, moving a barge along here would have taken most of the day, passing through a mind-boggling 44 locks! Now they just enter the bridge’s main shaft and voila! A few minutes later, there they go again. And for the power nerds who might be reading, all of this takes just 1.5 kWh per rotation, equivalent to about 8 kettles.
Speaking of putting the kettle on, you can stop and enjoy a cuppa at the nearby visitor centre while you watch it all. There are boat rides available, allowing you to ride the Wheel yourself. See the website for pricing. But there is no fee to watch for as long as you like.
Gretna Green
Growing up (and I’m aware this may age me), I always heard stories that a young couple might run away to Gretna Green to marry if their parents wouldn’t allow it. And even though marriage may be a little easier now, there’s still something wonderfully romantic about the idea of eloping here. It’s why countless couples still come here to say their vows. But why Gretna Green?
The 1754 Marriage Act made life instantly more complicated for young love. Whereas before, anyone over the age of 16 could marry without the need for parental consent, now they would have to wait until they were 21. The new law, introduced by Lord Hardwicke, was intended to cut down on “irregular marriages: which included bigamy and marriage fraud. Under the act, marriage fell under the purview of the Church.
There was, however, a loophole. In Scotland, a simple handfasting ceremony was legally binding. Couples who were too young under the new law, or who did not have permission from their parents eloped to Scotland where all they had to do was say they were free to marry and in front of two witnesses, that was that. Gretna Green, just across the border, became a popular destination. They could engage in a quick ceremony at the Blacksmith’s Shop and be married before anyone could catch them. The blacksmith conducting the wedding would hit his hammer to the anvil to symbolize the union’s legality.
The legal loophole remained in place until 1940, when Scotland finally put an end to marriage by declaration. Nevertheless, Gretna Green remains a popular wedding spot. Even if you’re not planning to tie the knot, this little town has lots to offer for a fun day out. The blacksmith’s shop tells the history of this romantic location, while there are plenty of other activities and festivals to enjoy. And you might get to congratulate a bride or two.
Highland Folk Museum
Spend a day learning how your Scottish ancestors lived at the Highland Folk Museum in Inverness-shire. The exhibits and staff at this fascinating living history museum recreate the daily life of people in this part of the country back in the 1700s all the way through to the 1950s. Learn how they lived, how they worked, and how they played. The 80-acre site is home to a collection of historic buildings as well as collections of various historical memorabilia from agricultural machinery to household items. With lots for all ages to see and do, not to mention a gorgeous rural setting, this is a great day out for the family.
Best of all, it is free. There is no admission charge for the entire museum, although donations are appreciated.
For more free attractions, including museums, cathedrals, and outdoor parks, check out Visit Scotland’s guide to free days out.
