Introduction
This evening, I am focusing on an intriguing piece of Scottish engineering, namely the Falkirk Wheel. This is the world’s first rotating boat lift which is located near Falkirk in central Scotland.
More information on the Falkirk Wheel
Video clip of site
The boat lift or ‘wheel’ links the Forth & Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. This mechanism provides canal boats with a direct link from Glasgow to Edinburgh. Previously the two links canals were linked by a series of eleven locks which eventually fell into disrepair. The Wheel was opened in 2002 to replace the defunct locks system.
In addition to its primary boat transport function the Wheel is at the the heart of a visitor attraction which includes:
- Boat trips on the ‘Wheel’.
- Gift Shop and Cafe.
- Visitor Centre
- Picnic areas
- Canal walks.
- Cycle paths.
- Interactive displays.
Overall, and judging from guest feedback, a unique and interesting experience.
Wheel and visitor centre
Canal Tunnel
More information
For more information on all aspects of Scotland please refer Visitors’ Guide to Scotland, ISBN 978-1-9161332-0-4. This publication is also available via Kindle.