River Carron Trail (6.2 miles)
The Carron flows through the Falkirk area towards the Firth of Forth, passing the famed Kelpies sculptures on the way. The trail starts near the site of the old Carron Ironworks. The company was at the forefront of the Industrial Revolution in the United Kingdom. It prospered through production of a new short-range and short-barrelled naval cannon, the carronade. Carron was also known for casting traditional pillar and phone boxes. The firm lasted until 1982 and nowadays the stone clock tower (with cannon display) commemorates the site entrance. This is a good place to park (Stenhouse Road - a little loop off the B902).
An optional loop prior to the river walk is a quick tour of Carron Dams nature reserve. Stay on the same bank as the clock tower and take the access road that runs between the water and the industrial estate. You soon pass a partially dismantled railway bridge and as the road bends sharp left you can view the Grahamston cast iron gate. Weighing 20 tons, the gate was produced at another local foundry and displayed at the 1886 International Exhibition of Industry, Science and Art in Edinburgh before being returned to the Grahamston Works. When this concern closed at the turn of the century, the gate was erected on the old Carron site as a tribute to those who worked in the industry that built modern-day Falkirk. Continue along the road, approaching what appears to be a landfill site before branching right on a signed path for the reserve.
A circular route takes you round the old foundry reservoir, now partially drained and reclaimed by wildlife. Back at the river (having crossed over), follow the path with the water on your left. A cycle route runs parallel beyond a screen of trees but it makes sense to stick to the Carron. The two ways converge, cutting inland to omit a meander. Regular signs for Helix Park and the Kelpies keep you right at path junctions. Eventually you reach a substantial metal bridge but don't cross it. Should you wish to view the Love & Kisses sculpture (pictured above), branch to the right before the crossing (again, good signage makes this clear). The two options come back together in any case. Make of the art installation what you will! The last stage is a straightforward trek to the Kelpies - the tremendously popular metal horses drawing visitors from all over Scotland and beyond. There is a visitors centre with a cafe and toilets. Return by the reverse route.
