Founded in the 18th century with the construction of the Forth and Clyde Canal, Grangemouth is an industrious port town on the banks of the Firth of Forth. It is now one of the largest container terminals in the United Kingdom and home to a thriving petrochemical industry, with the Grangemouth Refinery one of the largest of its kind in Europe.
Things to do in Grangemouth
In the heart of Grangemouth is Zetland Park, where you’ll find tennis courts, a fragrant rose garden and a steamship-inspired playground featuring a full-size replica of the “Charlotte Dundas”. Kids can take charge at the steering wheel or peer through the telescope before testing their balance on the climbing net.
Overlooking the Forth and Clyde Canal is “The Kelpies”, two 30-metre-high sculptures that depict shape-shifting water spirits from Scottish folklore. Designed by the figurative sculptor Andy Scott, they stand as a monument to the country’s horse-powered heritage. Join a guided tour to explore their impressive inner structures before strolling around Helix Park, a picturesque green space traversed by walking paths and cycleways.
A short drive from Grangemouth is Callendar House, a fairytale-like mansion originally established in the 14th century as a tower house. Five centuries later, it was redesigned in a French Renaissance style while combining elements of Scottish Baronial architecture. Wander through the Georgian-inspired rooms and learn about the life of Sir William Forbes before enjoying the miniature golf course and boating lake in the surrounding parkland.
Getting around Grangemouth
Grangemouth is around 40 minutes’ drive from the centre of Edinburgh and just 20 minutes from Edinburgh Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe, North America and the Middle East. Trains connect to the nearby Polmont railway station while buses travel throughout Grangemouth.