Location: Bo'ness
Top Things to do in Bo'ness
10 Things to Do in Bo'ness That You Shouldn't Miss
Borrowstounness (commonly known as Bo'ness (/boʊˈnɛs/ boh-NESS)) is a coastal parish in the Central Lowlands of Scotland. It sits on a hillside on the south bank of the Firth of Forth within the Falkirk council area, 16.9 miles (27.2 km) north-west of Edinburgh and 6.7 miles (10.8 km) east of Falkirk. At the 2001 census, Bo'ness had a population of 13,961 but according to a 2008 estimate this has since risen to 14,490. Since 2014 Bo'ness is a part of Falkirk Council district.
Restaurants in Bo'ness
1. Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 427 reviews
This hidden gem, only 40 minutes drive from Glasgow and Edinburgh, is located in the historic town of Bo’ness. Our friendly staff will welcome you aboard one of our heritage steam or diesel-hauled trains and wish you a pleasant journey. The train travels along the shore of the Firth of Forth with views of the majestic Ochil Hills, before climbing a tree-lined gradient, passing woodland, wild flowers and Waterfalls to the country station of Birkhill. Alight here to take a stroll in the ancient woodlands of the Avon Gorge.Beyond Birkhill, the train crosses the River Avon Viaduct to Manuel beside the Edinburgh to Glasgow railway line. Back at Bo’ness, visit the Museum of Scottish Railways, extended in 2012 with the addition of a 16,000 sq. ft. train shed to house the last remaining "Glasgow Blue Train", a recently restored Class 126 Diesel Multiple Unit and several other heritage items of rolling stock. In the main exhibition hall, operate a railway signal and points, climb aboard heritage locomotives and learn about the making, operating and using of Scottish Railways through the ages. Take time to sort some letters in the Post Office Sorting Van and view the classic video "Night Mail". Free parking, Station Buffet and Gift Shop.
Reviewed By Andrew K - London
Train decked out for Christmas. Nice and clean and warm too!
Conductor fellow handed out Reindeer hats and there was a song sheet on the table. We were in coach A, so saw santa first! Entertained by a magician. Enjoyed a sing song lead by a choir master and a man playing an accordion - lovely!
Back at the station we had complementary tea and a warm mince pie.
There was a model railway and a museum open too - a very enjoyable visit.
Well done to all the volunteers - a happy Christmas to you all!
2. The Hippodrome
Overall Ratings
5 based on 113 reviews
This fantastic pre-art deco picture palace was first opened in 1912. For decades it was the place to see the latest Hollywood and British blockbusters. It closed in the 1980’s after a short spell as a bingo hall. Now – thanks to a £2.1 million restoration project – the Hippodrome is open again, lovingly restored to its 1926 heyday. With a great program of blockbusters, art house and classic favorites, there’s bound to be something for everyone.
Reviewed By lesleyScotlandUk - scotland uk
Fantastic little cinema that can beat the big nationals hands down. Beautifully restored, Scotland first purpose built cinema that offers the best variety of movies Inc new releases. Sit back and chill out with the kids and reasonably prices goodies. Or make it a night with the adults and have a relaxing drink at your seat from the bar. Support the Hippodrome and help keep the doors open at this all institution with a fab range of prices for all budgets and screenings ..
3. Bo'ness Motor Museum
Overall Ratings
4 based on 115 reviews
Reviewed By Delboynelson
We visited the museum as we were at the Bo'ness railway and my 2 year old nephew loves cars.
I personally loved the museum and seeing loads and of cars from movies I love. James Bond and Harry Potter. There is also loads of other props from movies for e.g a tardis. A life size sully from monsters inc.
I would say it is less suitable for young kids as the want to touch everything and it was hard to stop my nephew doing this.
Overall I loved this place and I would like to return without the kids so I can have a proper look around
4. Museum of Scottish Railways
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 44 reviews
Three buildings full of wonders - from full-size locomotives to old fashioned railway signs. Follow the visitor trail or cross the footbridge at the Bo'ness & Kinneil Railway to discover Scotland's largest railway museum. Open 7 days a week from April to October and special event days in November and December.
Reviewed By thetravellingmanUk - uk
Visited this museum on Saturday 5th August 2017 with my wife.
It worked out fine for us as there was a bit of time to kill before the next steam train was due to depart. It also poured down whilst we were in the museum and then dried up after that!
At only £2 admission charge per adult we thought that it represented excellent value for money as there are a good number of trains and carriages to see. We found a lot to interest us here, with the Royal Mail post carriage probably being the highlight for us.
Many information boards and small exhibits in the central part. Especially interested to read up about the old Tay Railway Bridge disaster. I had a friend whose relative went down with that train and bridge. Nice to see the old 'Wormit' station sign too as I once lived in that area.
An interesting afternoon for us.
We would recommend a visit here, suitable for all ages, and a definite must for railway enthusiasts.
5. Kinneil Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 26 reviews
Kinneil Museum in the 17th century stable block of Kinneil House is the information centre for Kinneil Estate. 2,000 Years of History tells the story of the park from Roman times to the present day. A short walk from the museum takes visitors to the Antonine Wall (World Heritage Site), a Roman fortlet, a medieval Church and the site of the medieval village, Kinneil House and James Watt's cottage. Open Monday-Saturday: 12.30-4.00pm
Reviewed By Karene G - Bo'ness, null, United Kingdom
Well laid out,, & child friendly!! the exhibits were great & staff were fab with the kids.. the film was really good..
6. Kinneil House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 15 reviews
Historic mansion, set in a public park - open on selected days throughout the year. The House dates back to the 15th century and was once home to the Dukes of Hamilton. It was transformed into a stately home in the 1660s.
Reviewed By Melanie O - Bo'ness
It's a shocking thought that this wonderful medieval house was partly demolished by the council in the 1930s before the walls were revealed, with their stunning art work. Then they realised that this is one of the only remaining examples of this type of art left in the whole country! Visiting Kinneil House is a must for all lovers of Scottish history. The charity Friends of Kinneil opens the house regularly, with lots of great events for kids at different times of the year.
7. Tartan Tours
Overall Ratings
5 based on 11 reviews
Day tours around Central Scotland to places of interest. Specialising in Outlander Film Location Tours. Pre planned tours and also Private Customised Tours on request.
Reviewed By Clinton L
I am sure this was a first for Gordon. On planning an extensive itinerary for showing my friend Snow the best of Scotland and the Highlands, I booked us on a full day "Outlander" Tour, starting off from our hotel in Edinburgh. Not knowing anything...MoreHi Clinton, I'm so glad you and Snow enjoyed your day out. If you get round to watching Outlander you can say you've been there :)
8. Carriden Parish Church
Overall Ratings
5 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By craigluscar - Dunfermline, United Kingdom
Heading down the A904 on Carriden Brae this beautiful Church sits on the right hand side near the bottom of the hill set in its own grounds with a bell tower . The Church was built in 1909 to replace the old Parish church to the south . The foundation stone was laid by the Duke of Hamilton .The architect was P MacGregor Chalmers. The Church itself is very active as you will see by accessing their web page
9. Bo'ness Old Kirk
Overall Ratings
5 based on 1 reviews
Reviewed By craigluscar - Dunfermline, United Kingdom
The Church used to be the Parish Church until that was moved to The Carriden Church in the east of the town . Built in the Gothic style the build was from 1885 to 1888 there are many fine stained glass windows by William Meikle and sons 1902. There is a fine carving of the burning bush above the entrance which is situated at the base of the Tower. It is nice to see looking at the website how active and thriving this church is .
10. Carriden Old Church and Churchyard
Overall Ratings
4 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By craigluscar - Dunfermline, United Kingdom
Sitting almost beside the new Carriden Church this smaller ruin still has a lot to offer architecturally ,the roof is off and the bell tower staircase has gone but it gives you a different perspective looking up to the tower roof .This church was built in 1766 on land gifted by the Dalrymples. The church included a sailors loft for sailors who were late docking with the tide .this enabled them to enter the church without disturbing the congregation . The tower was added in 1850. By the 1900s the building and fabric had deteriorated and the new church beside it was built in 1909. The graveyard is well maintained and has a lot of old engraved stones in it
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