The origins of the kelpie are believed to be rooted in human sacrifices to the water gods however this concept eventually died out and the story of the kelpie was then used to keep children from playing too near to lochs and dangerous rivers. It also encouraged women to be wary of good looking strangers.
Why was the Kelpies built?
It was felt that the entrance to the canal needed a dramatic feature to welcome visitors and the idea of the Kelpies was born. Designed by Scottish sculptor Andy Scott the Kelpies are inspired by the working heavy horses such as Clydesdales who played a key role in Scotland’s industrial heritage.
What powers do kelpies have?
Kelpies have the ability to transform themselves into non-equine forms, and can take on the outward appearance of human figures, in which guise they may betray themselves by the presence of water weeds in their hair.
Can you get inside the Kelpies?
The only way to get inside a Kelpie is on a Kelpies Tour!
The pinnacle of the tour is that you get to experience a Kelpie from the inside, and see for yourself the breathtaking engineering and design of The Kelpies.
Are the kelpies lit up every night?
A common question is, do the Kelpies light up at night? The good news, is they do every night! As soon as the sun goes down in the evening, the Kelpies light up in all different colours of the rainbow.
Why are The Kelpies so called?
The Kelpies are named after the mythical water horses said to be in Scottish lochs and rivers. However, Scott says the inspiration for his sculptures comes from the heavy horses that once powered Scotland’s canals.
How much did kelpies cost?
Andy Scott, who designed the £7 million public artwork, holds the copyright to the two 30m steel horse’s heads, thought to be the largest of their kind in the world.
What is a kelpie weakness?
But there is some good news: a kelpie has a weak spot – its bridle. Anyone who can get hold of a kelpie’s bridle will have command over it and any other kelpie. A captive kelpie is said to have the strength of at least 10 horses and the stamina of many more, and is highly prized.
Do kelpies protect you?
The Australian Kelpie is not aggressive but won’t hesitate to protect family members, animals or property, often without regard for their own safety. Kelpies usually like children, though you should interactions these interactions.
How old do kelpies live?
between 11 to 16 years
The average Kelpie lifespan is between 11 to 16 years. Like most medium-sized dogs, they are likely to develop complications at middle- age.
Can you walk between The Kelpies and the Falkirk Wheel?
This short walk connects the stunning tourist attractions of the Falkirk Wheel and the Kelpies equine structures on the historic Forth & Clyde Canal.
How long is The Kelpies tour?
45-minute
The best way to experience The Kelpies is on The Kelpies Tour. Join the 45-minute guided walking tour that takes you through the vision of Andy Scott, the story of the real life working horses of the area, the local history and the history of the canals.
How long is the walk at The Kelpies?
Experience this 1.8-km out-and-back trail near Grangemouth, Falkirk. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 21 min to complete. This is a popular trail for walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.
What is inside The Kelpies in Scotland?
The Kelpies are located in the heart of Helix Park – 350 hectares of recreational green land complete with Visitor Centre which includes a cafe,gift shop and exhbition space, adventure play park, splash play fountains, lagoon and miles of cycle paths.
Can anyone use The Falkirk Wheel?
Groups & Travel Trade. The Falkirk Wheel is a fantastic day out with a difference and accessible to everyone! With boat trips, a cafe, gift shop, children’s activity zone, water play park & mini-canal, waterwalkerz, canoeing, bike hire and woodland walks; there really is something for everyone!
Do The Kelpies change color?
The Kelpie Sculptures are fantastic in daylight, but they come into their own after sunset. They are lit up with internal lighting and change colour every 30 minutes – they look spectacular.
Are kelpies unicorns?
What is the difference between a Unicorn and a Kelpie? As well as the unicorn, the Kelpie is an integral part of Scottish folklore and although it is horse-like much like the unicorn, there are subtle differences. The Kelpie is in fact an evil water-spirit which has anciently haunted Scotland’s lochs and lakes.
What are the two kelpies called?
Duke and Baron
Duke and Baron – Scotland’s Kelpies.
Who created The Kelpies?
These monumental structures by Glasgow sculptor Andy Scott, depicting two mythical kelpies, were completed in October 2013, and officially unveiled, by HRH Princess Anne, on 8th July 2015. The work is Scott’s largest commission.
Can you see The Kelpies from the road?
The Kelpies are two giant steel horse heads that are easily visible from a distance while driving the M9 motorway. Standing nearly 100 feet (30 metres) high over the Forth & Clyde Canal, these are actually the largest pair of equine sculptures in the world.
Can you walk around The Kelpies?
The Kelpies are 30m high and each weighs over 300 tonnes. Constructed from structural steel with a skin made of hundreds of pieces, they reflect the light of both day and night, and became an instant iconic sight when they opened in 2014. Be sure to walk right around the Kelpies to enjoy them from all viewpoints.