Things to do in Blackford

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park offer some of the most spectacular scenery in the country, just a 1-hour drive north of Glasgow. The villages in the area are steeped in history and legend, and locally sourced food takes pride of place at many of the local restaurants.

Overlooking the town from an extinct volcanic crag, the imposing Stirling Castle was the seat of Scottish kings and rulers for many centuries. The landmark, dominating every view of the area, is equally impressive inside, with brightly colored rooms perfectly preserved to give visitors an insight into the lives of Scotland's past monarchs. Learn about their births, marriages and deaths through interactive exhibits and informative displays.

Marvel at the power and scale of The Kelpies, two spectacular statues that sit on the edge of Falkirk. The sculptures are of two horse heads, which loom an impressive 98 feet (30 meters) high and represent both Celtic mythology and Scotland’s horse-powered past. While visiting this impressive art installation, explore the rest of Helix Park, which features cycle paths, watersports and expansive parkland.

Scone Palace has been inextricably linked to Scotland’s history for centuries, serving as the capital of a Pictish Kingdom, and later as a religious center and the coronation site for generations of Scottish monarchs. Explore rooms filled with antique French furniture, valuable porcelain and fine portraits. Walk around the palace’s superb grounds, which encompass a woodland, a butterfly garden and an unusual maze.

The Falkirk Wheel is an impressive structure of space-age design that connects canals. The rotating boat lift is a marvel of modern engineering, raising vessels by 79 feet (24 meters) from the Forth and Clyde Canal to the Union Canal. Take a short boat trip and get lifted into the air with panoramic views of the picturesque Falkirk countryside.

Doune Castle is a partially ruined medieval structure in the Stirling countryside. It stands atop a hill with a commanding view of a pleasant area of forests and rivers. Admire the well-preserved halls, courtyard and tower rising above the surrounding region.