When most people think of Scotland, they picture misty lochs, dramatic Highlands, and perhaps a pub or two. And while all of that is true, I’ve always believed the real magic lies in finding a new way to see a classic landscape. I wanted to find an adventure that was both epic and intimate, a trip that would let me truly feel the pulse of the country. So, I decided to do something a little crazy: kayak from Glasgow to Edinburgh.
Sounds impossible, right? But paddling across Scotland, from one major city to the other, turned out to be one of the most incredible experiences of my life.
Kayaking on the Forth-Clyde Canal
Paddling the Forth-Clyde Canal is an amazing way to experience Scotland’s landscapes. You’ll launch from the Pinkston Basin and follow the Forth-Clyde Canal as it winds through central Glasgow and heads northeast into the countryside. The canal leads you through serene countryside, offering a unique perspective on the journey between two of the country’s most vibrant cities. It’s a relatively easy trip, with clear paths and locks that require short portages.
Paddle at your own pace, slowly meandering through locks and spending your nights camping under the stars or relaxing at a cozy pub. Depending on your speed and how many stops you make, you’ll arrive in beautiful Edinburgh in just two or three days.
- Total Distance: 60 miles (96 km)
- Duration: 2-3 days
- Main stops:
- Pinkston Basin in Glasgow
- The Falkirk Wheel: A modern engineering marvel that is the world’s only rotating boat lift. It’s the point where you transfer from the Forth & Clyde Canal to the Union Canal, and you get a chance to watch it in action.
- Linlithgow Palace: Located on the shores of Linlithgow Loch, this towering ruin is the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots. You’ll get a unique view of the palace from the canal.
- Edinburgh
Start in Glasgow
The adventure kicks off in the heart of the city at the Pinkston Basin. There’s something wonderfully surreal about launching your kayak in a city known for its Victorian architecture and industrial past.
But once you start paddling, the urban scenery slowly gives way to the tranquil Scottish countryside. We followed the Forth-Clyde Canal as it wound its way out of the city, leaving behind the sounds of traffic for the gentle rhythm of our paddles and the calls of wildlife. The canal itself feels like a secret highway, a peaceful, meandering path through a landscape that changes with every stroke.
Navigating the Falkirk Wheel
One of the trip’s most anticipated moments—and biggest challenges—is the majestic Falkirk Wheel. The sight of this modern marvel looming on the horizon is truly breathtaking. As kayakers, we couldn’t ride the Wheel itself, so we had to complete a short portage—or carry our kayaks—about 900 meters uphill to the Union Canal.
The Falkirk Wheel is the only rotating boat lift in the world, an ingenious piece of engineering that lifts boats 24 meters into the air. We watched in awe as it slowly turned, carrying canal boats smoothly from one level to the next. The sheer scale and grace of the machine are incredible. It’s hard to believe its design was inspired by a Celtic axe and a ship’s propeller—it truly looks like something from a futuristic film.
The final stretch to Edinburgh
This was the final stretch of our journey, and a new kind of magic settled in. We were now about halfway to Edinburgh, and the canal felt even more serene. The scenery was idyllic, a beautiful mix of pastoral landscapes and ancient woodland.
As we paddled, we passed through charming towns and caught glimpses of history peeking out from beyond the canal’s edge.
One of the most unforgettable moments was gliding past the town of Linlithgow and seeing its ancient palace, the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots, rise majestically from the shoreline. From the quiet perspective of a kayak, it felt like a secret view—a perspective that only a lucky few get to experience.
After a final 29-mile paddle, we knew we had made it when we saw the elegant Leamington Lift Bridge ahead. We had done it. We had kayaked from Glasgow to Edinburgh.
Practical travel tips for kayaking in Scotland
- Gear up properly. Hire a lightweight kayak that’s easy to portage and pack a dry bag with spare clothes, a first-aid kit, and plenty of water and snacks.
- Plan your portages. The canal locks are a major part of the journey. Know where you’ll have to get out and carry your kayak around. The Falkirk Wheel portage is the most significant, so prepare for that.
- Book your spot. While camping along the canal is an option, it’s wise to book accommodation in advance if you prefer a bed and hot shower.
- Check the canal’s status. Before you go, check the Scottish Canals website for any maintenance closures or updates that might affect your journey.
- Register your trip: Scottish Canals recommend that all paddlers register their trip online, so they can keep track of all watercrafts on the canals for safety reasons.
- Embrace the pub culture. The canals are dotted with charming pubs, so build in time for a pint or a meal. It’s a great way to meet locals and warm up on a chilly day.
