Airth: Churches, Paths and Highland Games

Airth can be explored during a stay through specific themes: church and local history, paths at the mouth of the River Forth, and the Highland Games. If you are looking for a hotel in Airth, these themes can help narrow down the focus of your trip: are you interested in historic churches, a particular section of path, or a stay during the Highland Games?

Church history and planning your visit

Airth Old Church is of national importance because it can contribute to our understanding of medieval and early modern church architecture, religious practices, and material culture. Interest in the ruins therefore extends beyond their architectural history: their religious use and material culture are also part of their historical significance.

The old parish church building was in use from the late 12th century until 1820. It was then abandoned in favour of North Church, built as its replacement by William Stirling of Dunblane. This sequence marks the transition from the old church building to a replacement. Airth Old Church is now a ruin and can be viewed from the roadside. For safety reasons, entering the church or churchyard is not recommended.

Airth Parish Church offers another perspective on church history. It was renamed Airth North Church in 1929 and reverted to the name Airth Parish Church after Airth South closed on 1 January 1956. A walking trail through Airth leads to Airth Parish Church; its churchyard and memorial can be explored. This offers two different ways to visit: viewing the ruins from outside, and taking the trail to the parish church, churchyard, and memorial.

Exploring on foot

The Banks section follows the mouth of the River Forth and is 1.3 kilometres long. Peregrine falcons hunting and white-tailed eagles have been observed above the estuary. Those interested in the landscape and birdlife will find two specific points of interest here: the river mouth and the birds of prey mentioned. The route’s length provides a clear framework for planning your visit.

The Wilderness park offers a different point of reference: it has its own car park and a single path leading south. Visitors can take this route into account when finding their way around the park. Together with The Banks, it provides a different perspective on paths in Airth: one section along the Firth of Forth, and one single path leading south through the park.

Travelling for an event

The Airth Highland Games take place annually on the fourth Saturday in July. If the Games are the reason for your trip, check the date for your chosen year before booking. This lets you plan your stay around a specific date; the church and walking themes offer other focuses for planning your trip.

Discover more destinations: Grangemouth, Bonnybridge, Bo'ness, Camelon, Carron, Slamannan, Larbert, Falkirk.

Go to the main travel overview: Falkirk.