Originally built to transport coal, today the Union Canal is a more peaceful location. Whether you choose to sail, cycle or walk along the 30 mile route, this historic trail is packed with adventure.
Running from Edinburgh Quay to meet the Forth & Clyde Canal at Falkirk, key landmarks along the route include the Avon, Almond and Slateford aqueducts and the Falkirk Wheel, the world’s first rotating boat lift.
Tip 1: Wear comfortable walking shoes
Tip 2: Plan in advance to make the most of this experience.
Tip 3: Capture your favourite spots and share with us using #ForeverEdinburgh
History of the canal
The idea of building a canal that could quickly and conveniently transport coal from the west coast to Edinburgh was first developed in 1793. By 1817, construction had been approved and in 1822 the Union Canal opened.
It ran successfully until 1842 when the rail link between Glasgow and Edinburgh reduced the canal’s usefulness and the stretch of water went into a period of decline, before closing in 1965.
After extensive renovation, in 2001 the Union Canal reopened as part of the Millennium Link – the largest canal restorations anywhere in Britain. The following year, The Falkirk Wheel opened, reconnecting the Forth & Clyde and Union Canal for the first time in over 70 years.
Five ways to enjoy the Union Canal
From boat trips to a canal festival, there are plenty of ways you can experience this historic waterway for yourself.
1. Book a boat trip
Set sail, relax and take in the passing views on a day trip aboard a canal boat. There are several companies offering excursions, including Seagull Trust Cruises, who provide cruises for those with additional needs, Linlithgow Union Canal Society and Marine Cruises.
Find out more about boat trips on The Union Canal.
2. Try your hand at watersports
See the water from a different angle by trying your hand at kayaking, canoeing or stand-up paddle boarding.
Bridge 8 Hub offer a range of water-based activities for both adults and children – while their Paddle Café is ideally located for coffee and light bites whilst taking in the canal side atmosphere.
3. Explore on 2 wheels
Whether you choose to cycle the whole route or part of it, the canal towpath is open to cyclists of all levels and offers a car-free way to explore the area. Bike and equipment hire are also available.
Discover more about enjoying the Union Canal by bike.
4. Stay longer on a cruising holiday
If one day on the water is simply not long enough, why not book a short stay on a specially modified narrowboat. Offering a great way to explore the Scottish coast while enjoying laidback life on the waterways, Marine Cruises, Black Prince Holidays and ABC Boat Hire all offer this unique experience.
Or if the idea of a canal boat holiday appeals, but you don’t want to actually set sail, Four Sisters Boatel is permanently moored in Edinburgh’s Lochrin Basin. Available on a self-catering basis, there are three 4-star boats to choose from, all of which have been thoughtfully furnished, and are dog-friendly.
5. Take part in the Edinburgh Canal Festival
A popular fixture on the summer calendar, the Edinburgh Canal Festival is a celebration of Edinburgh’s canal and its community.
Featuring local businesses, organisations and local community groups that operate on or near the Union Canal, come along and enjoy watersports taster sessions, dance and live music performances and more. For adventurous types, there’s also the annual Raft Race!
The 2025 festival takes place on Saturday 21 June 2025.
Prefer a day by the beach?
From miles of sandy beach to beachside cafes, have a day of fun at Portobello, Edinburgh’s year-round seaside resort.
