Dog Days Out Adventure | Canada Wood, Falkirk

It can be tough coming up with new ideas for a dog days out adventure, so at The Dog Witch we aim to provide dog owners with great days out ideas, which they can enjoy with their dogs.

This blog focuses on Canada Wood in Falkirk, specifically the route from the car park to The Falkirk Wheel and back

The route from Canada Wood Kitchen and Bar to the Falkirk Wheel is a perfect choice! This walk blends lush woodland paths with picturesque canal-side strolls, offering a delightful experience for dogs and their humans.

Getting there from Glasgow

By Car:
1. From glasgow, take the M8 motorway heading east towards Edinburgh.
2. Merge onto the M80 towards Stirling/Kincardine Bridge
3. Take exit 5 for the A905 towards Falkirk/Grangemouth
4. Follow the signs for Falkirk and then for Callendar Estate and Canada Wood. The journey takes about 40 minutes, depending on traffic.

By Public Transport:
1. Train: Take a train from Glasgow Queen Street Station to Falkirk High Station. The journey is around 25-30 minutes.
2. Bus: From Falkirk High Station, you can take a local bus or taxi to Canada Wood Kitchen and Bar. The bus journey typically takes about 15-20 minutes.

Starting the walk: Start Point – Canada Wood Kitchen and Bar

Located within the Callendar Estate, the Canada Wood Kitchen and Bar provides the perfect starting
point.
Surrounded by dense woodland, this cozy café offers a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The café itself offers delicious food and drinks, which would be an ideal post walk treat.
With its rustic charm and great views of the surrounding nature, it’s an ideal spot to relax and unwind
after the adventure – some areas are dog friendly but best to pre book.

The Adventure! Leave the Cafe and head towards the wooded trails

Begin the adventure by stepping out of the Canada Wood Kitchen and Bar.
Follow the clearly marked signs directed towards the woodland trails.
Upon entering the trails, dogs and their humans will be enveloped by the tranquil beauty of Canada
Wood.
These well-maintained paths, flanked by towering trees, offer a peaceful retreat and a chance to immerse
in nature.
Well behaved dogs can be off lead to fully enjoy the adventure, however just observe the rules of the
countryside

Follow the trails to the Union Canal

Continue along the woodland paths until the intersection with the Union Canal is reached.
This segment of the walk is particularly enchanting, with opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy
various viewpoints.
The trail here is serene and quiet, providing a perfect escape.

Walk along the Union Canal

Upon reaching the Union Canal, turn onto the towpath and follow it.
This path is flat and easy, making it accessible for walkers of all ages and fitness levels.
Walkers will pass moored boats and may witness occasional canal traffic, adding to the charm of the
walk.
Dog owners whose dogs like to swim, should be vigilant when walking here.

Approaching the Falkirk Wheel

Continue along the towpath following signs for the Falkirk Wheel.
The path remains flat and well-maintained, ensuring a comfortable walk.
The impressive structure of the Falkirk Wheel will gradually come into view, providing a striking contrast
against the natural landscape.

Falkirk Wheel

The Falkirk Wheel is a marvel of modern engineering, connecting the Union Canal with the Forth and
Clyde Canal.
The rotating boat lift allows boats to traverse the height difference, creating a fascinating spectacle.
On arrival, there is the visitor centre, walkers can embark on a boat trip on the Wheel, or simply admire
this incredible piece of engineering. (The visitors centre and boats are not dog friendly)
There are cafes and picnic areas where dogs and their humans can enjoy the surroundings.

Key Information

Distance and Duration – The walk from Canada Wood Kitchen and Bar to the Falkirk Wheel covers
approximately 4-5 Km (2.5-3 miles) and typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your pace.

Terrain – The route includes both woodland trails and canal towpaths, which are well-maintained and
suitable for walking. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Scenery – Enjoy a variety of scenic views, from the serene, wooded areas and the picturesque canal-
side to the impressive sight of the Falkirk Wheel.

Accessibility – The paths are generally accessible, but it’s advisable to check weather conditions and
dress appropriately.

This walk offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity, making it a memorable adventure
to explore with dogs.

Full details of the route and more photos can be found on The Dog Witch Social Facebook Group

We hope you enjoy this adventure with your dog, please stop by and let us know what you think!

See you on the next blog!
Lisa and Zak xx
Team The Dog Witch