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Forth & Clyde Canal

The Falkirk Wheel winter stoppage

Due to the extreme weather conditions during December, The Falkirk Wheel will be closed to navigation from 7th February 2010 until 5th March 2010 as we carry out our annual winter maintenance programme.

Notice of closure

All Scottish Sea Locks (Clachnaharry, Corpach, Crinan, Ardrishaig, Bowling & Grangemouth) are currently unable to accept or release craft to sea. Skippers should contact local offices and Sea Locks for an update, if required.

The Millennium Link

Running from Bowling and the Clyde, through Glasgow to Grangemouth and the Forth, it was triumphantly reopened in 2001 as part of the £78m Millennium Link project - the largest canal restoration ever in Britain. Its 35 miles and 39 locks cross the Scottish Lowlands, passing the 115ft (35m) high Falkirk Wheel en route.

The world's first rotating boat lift, the Wheel was opened in May 2002 by the Queen. Situated in a natural amphitheatre outside Falkirk, the remarkable lift is a piece of working art and a monument to the future. The only structure of its kind in the world, the Wheel is the height of eight double decker buses and is capable of lifting loads equivalent to the weight of 100 African elephants!

Day visitors can experience the thrill of the Wheel from special trip-boats at the site, while the Visitor Centre provides the most sensational land vantage point from which to view the wheel in action.

Photograph Competition 2009

We have launched our competition with all new categories and prizes on offer. To find out more click here.

Click here for more info