Polmont Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in Polmont, Stirlingshire and Clackmannanshire, Scotland.


Introduction to Polmont

Polmont is a charming village located in the Central Belt of Scotland, spread across both Stirlingshire and Clackmannanshire. It is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, vibrant history, and carefully preserved cultural heritage. Located just a short distance from Edinburgh and Glasgow, Polmont is the perfect destination for travelers hoping to explore the Scottish countryside or experience village life in the heart of Scotland.

List of Places to Visit in Polmont

Polmont has a wide variety of attractions that are sure to interest any traveler. Whether you are looking for scenic views, historical sights, or outdoor adventures, Polmont has plenty to offer.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Polmont has a number of museums and historic sites that offer a glimpse into the village’s rich past. One of the most notable attractions is the Polmont Old Parish Church, which dates back to the 12th century and boasts a collection of fascinating artifacts. The Baillie House Museum is another popular destination for history buffs, displaying an impressive collection of artifacts from the village’s past. Additionally, the Kinneil Museum and Estate are located just a short distance from Polmont, offering a fascinating look at the life and times of the local nobility.

Natural Attractions of Polmont: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Polmont is known for its stunning natural beauty, which can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Some of the most popular outdoor destinations in the area include the nearby Walking Wood and the Union Canal, which offer miles of scenic hiking and biking trails. Visitors can also enjoy a scenic tour of the area on the Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway, which travels through some of the area’s most picturesque landscapes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Polmont

Polmont is a prime location for hiking and biking enthusiasts, offering a range of scenic routes that are suitable for everyone from beginners to experienced trailblazers. Some of the most popular routes include the Union Canal Towpath, which offers a gentle, flat trail that is perfect for families, and the Avon Aqueduct Trail, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Polmont: Activities and Tours

Polmont has no shortage of activities and tours that are sure to keep visitors entertained. One of the most popular options is a tour of the local distilleries, including the renowned Glenkinchie Distillery. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf at any of Polmont’s world-class courses, or try their hand at clay pigeon shooting at the nearby World Sporting Clay Shooting Center.

Week-Long Itinerary for Polmont

For those looking to make the most of their time in Polmont, we suggest the following week-long itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Polmont and explore the local museums, including the Kinneil Museum and the Baillie House Museum.

Day 2: Take a scenic tour of the area on the Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway.

Day 3: Spend the day hiking or biking along the Union Canal Towpath or Avon Aqueduct Trail.

Day 4: Take a tour of the nearby distilleries, including the Glenkinchie Distillery.

Day 5: Enjoy a round of golf at any of Polmont’s world-class courses, or try your hand at clay pigeon shooting at the World Sporting Clay Shooting Center.

Day 6: Spend the day exploring the natural beauty of Polmont at the Walking Wood or Union Canal.

Day 7: Depart Polmont and head to your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Polmont

Polmont has no shortage of fantastic restaurants and cafes that offer a wide range of culinary options. Some of the most popular dishes to try in the area include haggis, neeps, and tatties, stovies, and Arbroath Smokies. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a variety of local beverages, including the famed Scottish whisky and ales from the local breweries.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Haggis, neeps, and tatties
  • Stovies
  • Arbroath Smokies

Local Beverages

  • Scottish Whisky
  • Local Ales

Where to Stay in Polmont: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Polmont has a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Some of the most popular options include the Macdonald Inchyra Hotel and Spa, the Kylepark Cottage Bed & Breakfast, and the Premier Inn Falkirk.

What to Buy in Polmont: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Polmont is known for its locally produced goods, including handcrafted pottery, woven textiles, and artisanal foods. Visitors can find these items at the local markets and shops, including the Stirling Farmers’ Market and the nearby Tillycoultry Market.

Local Culture and Customs of Polmont

Polmont is a friendly village that prides itself on its unique cultural heritage. Visitors should be sure to respect local customs and traditions, including offering greetings and responding politely to queries.

Best Time to Visit Polmont

The best time to visit Polmont is from May to September, when the area enjoys warm temperatures and long days of sunshine. The village can be quite crowded during the summer months, so visitors should plan their trip accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Polmont

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try local dishes and beverages
  • Explore the natural beauty of the area

Don’t:

  • Engage in disrespectful behavior
  • Disrespect local customs or traditions
  • Ignore safety regulations

Safety and Health

Safety in Polmont

Polmont is a safe destination for travelers and provides a variety of resources to ensure safety on the trails, in the waterways, and in public areas. Visitors should always be vigilant and follow all safety precautions and posted rules and regulations.

Health in Polmont

The village has a number of clinics and pharmacies that provide basic health services for visitors. Visitors should be sure to bring adequate supplies of any necessary medications and follow all safety protocols on outdoor excursions.

Getting to Polmont: Transportation Options and Logistics

Polmont is easily accessible by a variety of transportation options, including air travel, buses, and trains.

Airports Near Polmont

The closest major airport to Polmont is the Edinburgh Airport, which offers a range of domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Polmont

Bus services to and from Polmont are provided by the First Bus service and offer frequent routes to destinations throughout Scotland.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Polmont by train or by renting a car from any of the major rental companies located in the area.

How to Get Around in Polmont

Visitors can easily get around Polmont by walking or biking. Additionally, public transportation is available through the local bus service and taxis.

Where to Go Next from Polmont: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Polmont is an ideal starting point for exploring the many wonders of Scotland. Nearby destinations and excursions include the historic city of Edinburgh, the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands, and the charming villages of the nearby Lowlands.

Conclusion

Polmont is a charming destination that offers something for everyone, from the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding countryside to the rich cultural heritage of the village itself. Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, Polmont is sure to delight and inspire on your next Scottish vacation.

Grangemouth Refinery Grangemouth Refinery Polmont Parish Church Polmont Parish Church Union Canal at Polmont Union Canal at Polmont Plaque at Polmont Station Plaque at Polmont Station Ochils and Highlands beyond Grangemouth Ochils and Highlands beyond Grangemouth