The Falkirk Wheel is a unique design to solve a complex problem – how to connect the Forth & Clyde Canal and the Union Canal which finishes 115ft (30m) above the level of the Forth & Clyde Canal.
Originally this was solved with a series of 11 locks slowly stepping boats down, but the locks were removed in 1933 breaking this link in the Scottish canals. With the rise in popularity of the canals, a way needed to be found to re-connect the canals, and after significant international consultation the Falkirk Wheel was conceived and constructed.
Today the wheel and surrounding park have become a tourist attraction in their own right with boat trips taking visitors between the Forth & Clyde Canal and the Union Canal via the wheel and back again.
Visitors can learn more about the wheel at the centre including how the gondola’s balance each other using the Archimedes principle of displacement – essentially the weight is equal each side so the gondola’s descend in a controlled manner.
Tours of the wheel run from March to October, although the wheel operates as long as the canal is operational. Tickets can be booked via the web site.
Other links:
Falkirk Wheel details
Falkirk hotels
Attractions in Falkirk
