Falkirk Council's Helix project has won the 'Best Visitor Attraction Experience' award as part of the VisitScotland Regional Thistle awards that represent the best in tourism.

In another award, the Helix also received 100% in a visitor attraction mystery visit programme as part of a new benchmarking programme run by the Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions.

Visits take place approximately every three months, to help visitor attractions ensure visitors are getting the best possible customer experience. The Helix and Callendar House have consistently scored above 90%, with The Helix receiving their first 100% score earlier this week.


When the national results from all the mystery visits were compiled, The Helix achieved a joint second-best in Scotland with Callendar House a close third equal.

Councillor Paul Garner, spokesperson for Economic Development said: "Tourism is beginning to thrive again in the Falkirk area following COVID-19 and is so very important for our local economy and jobs.

"Winning this prestigious national award reflects the dedication and commitment to the high standards found at this and other locations and ensures visitors have the best experience possible.

"All of the staff that work at these venues should reflect how impressive the judges found these attractions and their ongoing hard work to maintain this standard is to be applauded and shows how we are up there with the best tourist attractions in Scotland today."

Alan Hunter, Duty Officer at The Helix, Home of the Kelpies who picked up the award and said: "I am delighted to accept this award on behalf of the team. The park provided a lifeline to the local community throughout the pandemic and the team worked tirelessly to ensure the community and visitors from further afield were welcomed, felt safe, and enjoyed a five-star experience."