The Falkirk Wheel is a Firm Favourite with Visitors
8 May 2008
The Falkirk Wheel attracted over 500,000 visitors in 2007, a 17.5 per cent increase on 2006, according to VisitScotland?'s Scottish Visitor Attraction Monitor, announced today, Friday, 9 May 2008.
Ranking in the top 10 free admission attractions, the unique Scottish landmark had one of the biggest increases in this year's results, welcoming 513,907 visitors during the year, 76,519 more than the 2006 figure of 437,388.
The Falkirk Wheel recorded the largest growth in visitor numbers of tourist attractions in Scotland , in a report published in February 2008 by the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (ALVA), which records visitor numbers to its member organisations across the UK on an annual basis. In Scotland , The Falkirk Wheel was way out in front, with a growth of 18% in 2007.
Steve Dunlop, director, British Waterways Scotland said: "By offering visitors to the Falkirk Wheel a variety of experiences such as exhibitions, fun days and special events like the annual fireworks spectacle, we are continuing to attract growing numbers. Add to this the emerging growth of the facility as a conference destination, and even a wedding venue, and we predict even further growth in the coming years."
Carole Keltie, destinations manager, The Falkirk Wheel said: "We are delighted with the results in this report. We set our own target to reach half a million visitors this year and it is excellent news that we have exceeded this number. The Wheel itself is a feat of engineering connecting the Forth & Clyde with the Union Canal and a stunning monument for the future. The fact that it is also a top 10 visitor attraction is fantastic. Visiting The Falkirk Wheel is an enjoyable day out and we hope more and more people will come to visit this unique Scottish landmark."
The Wheel is open for the Spring/Summer season seven days a week, 9.30 am - 6.00 pm.
Ends 8 May 2008
For further information:
Paula McNulty or Lesley Clark
Weber Shandwick
T: 0131 556 6649
M: 07770 886924 / 07770 886901
E: pmcnulty@webershandwick.com/ lclark@webershandwick.com
Notes to Editors
British Waterways Scotland
Responsibility for inland waterways in Scotland is a devolved matter, with funding for British Waterways' Scottish activities coming from the Scottish Government. In Scotland the 137-mile (220km) canal network includes the Caledonian, Crinan, Forth & Clyde, Union and Monkland canals.
British Waterways Scotland works in partnerships with local authorities, voluntary groups, private companies and other government agencies to protect and enhance the waterways and benefit the communities through which they run.
The organisation balances the conservation of the country's heritage and environment with developing commercial opportunities to generate income to reinvest in the waterways for further sustainable regeneration.
Millions of people enjoy Scotland 's inland waters for recreational activity, sports and leisure. Safety is British Waterway's top priority. Water safety advice and information on the safe use of Scotland 's canals - both on water and waterside - can be found on our websites.
The Falkirk Wheel
Bookings:
Advance bookings are highly recommended for boat trips through The Falkirk Wheel, as daily availability cannot be guaranteed. Tickets can be pre-booked up to 5.00 pm the day before you intend to travel (2.00 pm on a Sunday). To reserve your trip, call the booking line 08700 500 208
Boat Trip Prices:
• Adult £8
• Child (3-15 years) £4.25
• Family ticket (2 adults/2 children) £21.50
• Child under 3 years FREE
• Concession £6.50
• 15% discount on off-peak boat trips
• Concessions - Seniors, Students and Claimants - with appropriate verification
It is advisable to arrive half an hour before the trip to allow for ticket collection and boarding.
Admission to the visitor centre is free
www.thefalkirkwheel.co.uk