Scotland has so much history and so many myths, so we’re starting a series to explore some of the biggest and most exciting.
We had to start with the Loch Ness monster: it’s the biggest and the one everyone knows about. In truth, you wouldn’t believe how many myths and legends there are, let alone the true history that’s made Scotland what it is today.
The latest blog in the series will look at the mythical Kelpies. They’re every bit as real as the Loch Ness monster (if you want to believe they’re real). Dive into the magic below.
The Mythical Kelpies
The mythical kelpies are Scottish folklore, probably more well-known among locals than the rest of the world.
The folklore tells a tale of a shapeshifting water spirit that most often appears as a horse. These horses are said to live in the lochs and rivers around Scotland, and many people claim to have seen them over the years.
But don’t get it twisted; these Kelpies aren’t friendly. They’re said to shapeshift into human form when they want to lure humans into the water, especially children, and drown them – lovely. When they’re in horse form, it’s said they have the strength of ten regular horses, and their tail makes a sound like a clap of thunder when it hits the water.
You might never see one in person, but if you rent one of our luxury Scottish motorhomes and head to Falkirk, you can see the largest equine sculpture in the world that represents the folklore of the Kelpie. Revealed in 2014, the 30-metre-tall horsehead sculptures are something you should visit if you’re in the area.
Interestingly, if you’ve ever watched J.K. Rowling’s Fantastic Beasts or read the books, Kelpies are mentioned in the series as giant beasts that Newt Scamander knows how to tame.
Taming a Kelpie
What if the folklore is true, and you find yourself in the presence of a kelpie that’s as strong as 10 horses?
Well, one of the most well-known ways to tame a Kelpie is to take hold of its bridle. According to the legend, if you can take hold of its bridle, you can use its power and strength.
Also, interestingly, that’s what Newt Scamander did in Fantastic Beasts – he tamed the Kelpie by grabbing onto its bridle and had the power to ride it!
Why Do Scottish Rivers and Lakes Home So Many Mythical Creatures?
Let’s get one thing straight — Scottish water isn’t just cold; it’s mysterious. It’s foggy, dark, and a little spooky, even in the middle of the day. So it’s no wonder people started imagining what might lurk beneath the surface.
But there’s more to it than just mood lighting. Most Scottish folklore started to warn people, especially kids, to stay away from dangerous bodies of water. Drownings were common, and myths made the danger memorable. Tell a kid, “Don’t go near the loch, or a horse monster will eat you,” and guess what? They stay away.
Plus, water was seen as a gateway to the otherworld in Celtic mythology. Spirits, gods, and monsters all needed somewhere to live, and our lochs were prime real estate. Over time, the myths stuck. And now, centuries later, we’ve got an entire fantasy collection swimming around in our rivers.
The Top Spots for Kelpie Sightings
If you’re the kind of person who packs binoculars hoping to spot something mythical, Scotland delivers.
First on your list? Loch Ness, obviously. Even though Nessie usually steals the spotlight, locals whisper about Kelpies lurking nearby. Don’t worry; you’ll probably only see ducks… or will you?
Then there’s the River Teith, near Stirling. It’s one of the classic locations in Kelpie lore, and some say that’s where the original stories came from.
Loch Garve up in the Highlands is another hot spot. People say they’ve heard hooves pounding the banks and seen ripples that couldn’t have been from fish. Real talk — it could be a deer, or it could be a supernatural water horse. No one’s confirmed either way.
If you’re after something you can definitely see, head to The Helix Park in Falkirk. That’s where you’ll find the Kelpies sculptures we mentioned earlier.
Scotland doesn’t just do history. It is wild, weird, and wonderful. The Kelpies are just one piece of the puzzle, and whether you think they’re myth, memory, or misunderstood magic, there’s no denying they’re part of what makes this country feel alive.
So grab your hiking boots, bring a camera, and keep one eye on the water. You never know what’s watching back.