The Mathematical - Edinburgh's Union Canal Trail

Fountainbridge, Edinburgh 1st Jan-31st Dec All day Free

The Edinburgh and Glasgow Union Canal, or just the Union Canal as it's known today, was nicknamed "The Mathematical" when it opened due it's ingenious design. This self-led walk along the stretch from Fountainbridge near the city centre, to the Slateford Aqueduct will take you through the history of the city as well as that of Scotland itself. You’ll find out about how the Union Canal was shaped by East/West rivalry, global trade and even its connections to Bonny Prince Charlie and Napoleon. Along the way, you can explore the engineering of the canal and it’s structures, learning why they were built, how they work and the impact they’ve had on the surrounding communities for the last 200 years.

Available all year round. Download the trail via the link below.

Latest News and Events

News

Active Maths Challenge

Start the year with our mini Active Maths challenge and measure what progress you can make over four weeks.

News

Citizen Science Projects 2026

You don’t need to be a scientist to take part in real research. Citizen science projects welcome people of all ages to help by counting, observing, measuring, and recording what they see around them. Here are a few inspiring ways you can get involved this year.

21st Feb
Event

The Amazing Mathemagic Show

National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street | | Free
Experience the wonder of mathematics, as students and staff from the University of Edinburgh transform into captivating performers, dazzling magicians, and astonishing "mind readers".