Scottish Canals has launched The Kelpies Experience, allowing visitors to explore the sculptures from within. In partnership with Zone Events, this adventure will enable participants to safely climb to the top of the interior of The Kelpies.
The Kelpies Experience will challenge participants of all ages to tackle a 25-metre aerial climb, taking them straight to the horse’s mouth. The experience will also tell a story of the Clydesdale – the horse that powered the industrial revolution worldwide.
In addition to testing visitors on the specially-designed climb, expert guides will share the history of Scotland’s canals, the vital role played by the Clydesdale Horse, and how this inspired internationally renowned sculptor Andy Scott.
The experience involves ascending 25 metres to the mouth of Baron (the head-up Kelpie in Falkirk) using a series of ladders, cable crossings, suspended platforms and nets before descending by abseil, or a quick flight, an option that gives the feeling of free falling before being lowered to the ground.
The climb culminates at the Kelpie’s mouth, offering panoramic views of the Forth & Clyde Canal, the Helix parklands, and, on clear days, the distant hills and the town of Falkirk. The new attraction aims to provide a unique visitor experience and a platform to generate income for charities and other organisations. Initially, The Kelpies Experience will be available for large group bookings or through participation in charity fundraiser events. The Kelpies Experience launch coincides with the 10th anniversary of these structures.
Since their launch, Helix Park has welcomed over seven million visitors worldwide. The Kelpies play a massive role in contributing to £85 million in tourism spending in the Falkirk region annually.
John Paterson, Scottish Canals’ Chief Executive Officer said, “We are incredibly excited to create this unique challenge. This is a truly amazing experience and will allow visitors from across the world to step inside our magnificent Kelpies and discover the secrets that lie inside, all while experiencing a 25-metre aerial journey straight to the horse’s mouth. Those who enjoy this epic experience will undoubtedly leave with a memory of a lifetime.”
To launch the event, Scottish Canals have teamed up with the Beatson Cancer Charity, which also celebrated its 10th anniversary this year, to allow it to be one of the first charities to participate in the challenge.
Charlene Low, Regional Fundraising Manager, Beatson Cancer Charity said, “We are thrilled to partner with Scottish Canals for the launch of The Kelpies Experience! It’s a fantastic way to celebrate our 10th birthday, offering our supporters a one-of-a-kind adventure inside the Kelpies while raising vital funds to support cancer patients and their families. This unforgettable experience brings people together to explore, connect, and make a real impact.”
Jono Buckland, Zone Events said, “There’s truly nothing else like it – where else can you safely climb into the mouth of the world’s largest horse head sculpture? From the initial concept to its design, construction, and operation, our shared vision with Scottish Canals has been to create an aerial adventure that also takes visitors on a journey through the rich history, engineering marvel and cultural significance of this iconic artwork.”
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