An Engineering Icon

A modern masterpiece lifting boats and spirits in the heart of Scotland

"The Falkirk Wheel doesn’t just move boats - it moves the soul with every graceful turn."

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Mad about Scotland? Spread the cheer! Today’s newsletter celebrates the beauty, culture and spirit of Scotland, from its rugged landscapes and ancient castles to its rich traditions and flavours. Know someone who dreams of Scotland too? Spread the magic by forwarding this to a friend - they’ll love discovering a wee bit of Scotland in their inbox!

Falkirk Wheel Scotland - Shutterstock

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In today’s email:-

• An Engineering Icon

• Scotland's Hidden Gem Castles

• Around the Web: Enjoy the best of both attractions; Unveil the Equine Legends; Why are Scotland's Castles so Captivating and more…

• Everything you need to know about visiting the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye

• Experiences Likely To Sell Out

• 🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

• From Social Media: Eilean Donan Castle in the highlands of Scotland

• Scottish Food You Will Love: What is it? What's it for? And how did it come about?

• Coo Wee: BEYOND EDINBURGH: Outlander locations and geeky sights west of Scotland's capital

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An Engineering Icon

The Falkirk Wheel isn’t just a clever machine—it’s one of the most eye-catching landmarks in Scotland. This enormous rotating boat lift connects the Union Canal with the Forth & Clyde Canal, allowing boats to travel between them by being gently lifted or lowered, almost like stepping into a turning bathtub. It opened in 2002 as part of a project to reconnect Scotland’s historic waterways, which had been cut off for decades. Today, it stands as a symbol of modern Scottish engineering and creativity.

Rather than using a long staircase of canal locks, which would have taken hours to pass through, the Falkirk Wheel does the job in just a few minutes. The wheel moves boats 35 metres (over 100 feet) between the two canals. It turns smoothly and silently, using only a small amount of energy—no more than boiling a few kettles of water! Its design is both practical and beautiful, inspired by Celtic patterns and shaped like a massive double-headed axe or even a piece of futuristic sculpture. Built with precision and pride, the structure weighs over 1,800 tonnes, yet remains perfectly balanced, thanks to smart engineering.

The Falkirk Wheel, a rotating boat lift linking the Forth and Clyde Canals with the Union Canal in Central Scotland - Shutterstock

Scotland's Hidden Gem Castles

Located in Aberdeenshire, Craigievar Castle is a striking vision of 17th-century baronial architecture. Its unique pink façade, a product of the local granite’s hue, is said to have inspired Walt Disney's Cinderella Castle. Inside, you’ll find beautifully preserved interiors, complete with original plasterwork ceilings, fine wood panelling, and family heirlooms of the Forbes family, who lived here for over 350 years.

Craigievar Castle; a pink castle located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland - Shutterstock

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Around The Web

Enjoy the best of both attractions

Enjoy the best of both worlds with the flexibility of the Forth Boat Tours Falkirk Wheel Cruise around the Firth Of Forth. Take in views of the Three Bridges on your Forth Boat Tours cruise and travel on the Falkirk Wheel itself, the world’s first and only rotating boat lift…

Unveil the Equine Legends

These magnificent equine sculptures, standing proudly at 30 meters tall, embody the power and grace of Scotland's rich heritage. Discover the intricate details, the marvellous feat of engineering and the symbolism that lies within, as the expert guides lead you through the awe-inspiring world of The Kelpies.

Callendar House is a well-preserved historic house

A grand mansion with a rich history and lovely parklands, perfect for a relaxing stroll. Through wars, rebellions and the industrial revolution, Callendar House has played host to many great historical figures over the centuries, including Mary, Queen of Scots, Cromwell and Bonnie Prince Charlie. Callendar House dates from the 14th century.

Why visit the Falkirk Town Centre

Overlooked by Falkirk’s historic Steeple, the town centre is rich in history and full of charm. With award-winning independent shops, two indoor shopping centres (Howgate and Callendar Square), and a traditional pedestrian high street, it’s a great place to explore. You’ll also find plenty of cosy cafés, lively bars, and restaurants. Falkirk is easy to reach by car, bus, train, or on foot, with lots of parking available.

Walk or Cycle the Canal Paths

Falkirk is at the meeting point of two major canals, making it perfect for walking or cycling. Follow the towpaths along the Union Canal or the Forth & Clyde Canal for peaceful views, local wildlife, and a real sense of the area's history. Get your phone or camera ready - these routes are packed with photo-worthy spots!

Why are Scotland's Castles so Captivating?

From mighty fortresses that once stood as strongholds in battles for independence to romantic ruins whispering tales of lost love and betrayal, Scotland’s castles are woven into the very fabric of its past. These grand structures, perched on windswept cliffs, hidden in misty glens, or towering over bustling cities, have witnessed centuries of warfare, royal intrigue, and clan rivalries.

Eilean Donan Castle, a symbol of Scottish history - Shutterstock

Top Experiences In Scotland Likely To Sell Out

2024 is going to be a busy year - Here is a list of the top experiences that will most likely sell out and you should book in advance. Don’t delay!

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🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

Are you ready to prove your travel smarts? Don’t miss the chance to play the hottest new trivia game for travel lovers!

Here’s a taste: Where is the famous Kylemore Abbey located?

Think you know? Don’t wait—thousands of trivia buffs are already hooked. Play Travel Quizzer now!

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From Social Media

Eilean Donan Castle in the highlands of Scotland - Known for its striking silhouette, particularly at dawn or dusk, Eilean Donan Castle has become a symbol of Scotland's rich history and rugged beauty. It has also appeared in numerous films, adding to its fame as one of the most photographed castles in the country.

Scottish Food You Will Love

They found the BEST FOOD in SCOTLAND!

Coo Wee

The Falkirk Wheel - What is it? What's it for? And how did it come about?

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