The Kelpies

These fellows have been on my bucket list since 2013 when they were installed next to a new extension to the Forth and Clyde Canal near the river Carron, at Falkirk. I was so excited that we were able to take a slight detour on our way back from the Irish ferry crossing today to see them.

The Kelpies are 30m-high sculptures depicting kelpies (shape-shifting water spirits) and designed by Scottish sculptor Andy Scott. They are a monument to horse powered heritage across Scotland.

These words, written by poet Jim Carruth, are inscribed around the Kelpies :

Echo the great beasts that work among us.
Unbridled in this kingdom between canal and firth.
Carry each weary traveller.
Bow down your strong heads to taste the water.
Stretch up your long necks and face the sun.

I just loved them - I hope you do too.

[Casablanca]

WOW!! Those are so striking. What artistic vision. So Celtic.

[Islandgirl]

Magnificent!

[Mona]

I love them too, and I like your black & white treatment.

[Bep]

Fantastic sculptures. Fav.

[KoalaGardens🐨]

wow they are huge!

[Dianne]

I do love them - incredible.

[Richard Sayer]

You've captured them beautifully - thank you because they're on the list of 'Things I want to see but know that I never will!'. Did you know that the equivalent of kelpies in France are called Ondines?

[Denise Wood]

They are amazing :)

[Caroline]

Impressive! The people included in the photo really allow us to sense the size of these sculptures.

[Milanie]

I really like how the people show the amazing size of these sculptures.

[Kathy]

Huge! I like how you shot them with the people around them. Really gives perspective to the size.

[Sally Ings]

These are simply magnificent. I had not heard of them before. It must be quite an experience to see them up close.

[Issi Bannerman]

@vignouse Glad I've helped you with that list ... :-) Never knew about the ondines - cute name for them.

[vonski]

I really want to see these. Superb sculpture

[Etienne]

Fantastic monument and a picture that makes justice to it

[FBailey]

They are now on my bucket list too:)

[*lynn]

amazing

[Merrelyn]

They look amazing :)

[bkb in the city]

Great shot

[Pat Knowles]

I have never heard of the Kelpies before. Saw today’s shot & had to click on to this one to learn. Incredible images, so dominating & so beautiful. Must really try & seek these out next time we drive up to Scotland....not to be missed, thank you for telling us!