River Avon

The River Avon in Falkirk is a modest but historic waterway that winds through central Scotland for 31 kilometres before reaching the Firth of Forth. It rises near Avonhead Cottage, south of Upperton, where modern maps mark its start close to wind turbines. Older maps place the source further west, near Avonhead and the old coal pits. The river quickly gathers its first tributaries, such as the Shiellhill Burn, just north of Greengairs. Within a kilometre of Fannyside Road it crosses the Bog Bridge near Toddle Knowe, sending water toward Linlithgow, Larbert and Kirkintilloch. The Avon is worth the journey for its engineering landmarks and natural beauty. It passes beneath the tallest aqueduct in Scotland, the Avon Aqueduct, which carries the Union Canal 31 metres above the river. After Muiravonside Country Park, the river forms the boundary between Falkirk and West Lothian. Near Slamannan it is joined by the Culloch Burn, which also begins in Longriggend but takes a longer route. The Avon Gorge adds dramatic scenery as the waterway nears its end. Visitors find a quiet river valley with footpaths and wildlife. The River Avon Heritage Trail runs beside the water from Avonbridge to Muiravonside Country Park. Salmon fishers watch for movement near the Grangemouth Refinery where the river broadens. The landscape around the aqueduct offers views of both canal and river. Close to the Firth of Forth, the river meets the Grange Burn and the River Carron before joining the wider estuary.