2 Hours 59 Minutes

Approximate Distance:

101 miles (163 km)

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The Kelpies Gallop

Central Scotland

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Route at a Glance

This little route is 100 miles of pleasure. The route quickly takes you over the Clackmannanshire Bridge and then on to the very quaint and unusual Rumbling Bridge. It is named after an unusual double (arguably treble) bridge, which gives off a distinctive rumbling reverberation at lower levels. This is a most unusual bridge and worth stopping to see. Find a good spot to take a photo it will be worthwhile. The lowest level is not always easily visible but if you are mindful and look carefully you will see it.

Just before The Rumbling Bridge you could make a quick detour to Knockhill Race course if there is anything on. It is a very pleasant diversion so it would not be a waste of time. The mild mannered A91 allows you to make progress and enjoy the very well-manicured surrounds. It takes you through Stirling with a good view of the Castle – which you can nip into if you desire. You will then turn onto the A821 which will then take you along the lesser known but equally stunning Lochs of Venachar and Achray.

You will then immediately run over Dukes Pass – not overly technical but thoroughly enjoyable, with some great bends and a couple of good twisties and a venerable roller coaster to put a smile on your face.
The route finishes at the iconic Kelpies which is of course right next to the Falkirk Wheel. It is a must to visit both of these icons. They are both fascinating and so memorable.

Route Notes & Highlights

(Icons on the map)

The Kelpies – The Kelpies are 30-metre high horse-head sculptures, standing next to a new extension to the Forth and Clyde Canal and are a monument to the horse powered heritage across Scotland. They are a magnificent site! The name Kelpie comes from the mythological transforming beasts that lived in the lochs of Scotland and possess the strength and endurance of 10 horses.
Falkirk Wheel – The Falkirk Wheel is a rotating boat boat lift, connecting the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal opened in 2002. A marvel of engineering it takes the same power as it would to boil 8 kettles to do a full rotation of the enormous load bearing wheel.
Blair Drummond Safari & Adventure Park – A Zoo and Safari Park with Bird of Prey Displays, Sea Lion Show, African Elephants, Lemur Land, Chimp Island and a Pets’ Farm.
Dunblane – The birthplace and hometown Andy Murray, one of Scotland’s and Britain’s most recognised sportsman.
Dukes Pass – Magic in the Trossachs, regarded as one of Britain’s most scenic roads, you’ll simply love it!
Glengoyne Distillery – Home of this well-known highland single malt. Unique in that the distillery is split by the highland and lowland division line. The stills are in the highlands and the maturing casks are in the lowlands.
A81 – A bikers alternative route into Glasgow.
Crow Road (B822) – passing over the high grounds of the Campsey Fells, a Pilgrimage for cyclists so take care. Not to be mistaken with the Crow Road, located in the west of Glasgow, which was used as a title for one of Iain Banks’s novels.