Falkland Palace and Garden
A stunning Renaissance royal palace and gardens, famed for its history, beauty, and the world's oldest tennis court.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Gardens in full bloom
Falkland Palace and Garden
Best Time
Gardens in full bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning Renaissance royal palace and gardens, famed for its history, beauty, and the world's oldest tennis court.
"A fabulous day out with a nice gift shop at the end."
Membership Perks 🎟️
Entry is free for National Trust for Scotland members. Consider a membership for great value if you plan to visit multiple sites.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the palace and extensive gardens, so comfortable footwear is a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Renaissance Palace Interior
Palace
Explore royal chambers with intricate tapestries and painted ceilings, offering a glimpse into Stuart history.
World's Oldest Tennis Court
Gardens
Witness the historic Real Tennis court, still in use today, a unique sporting heritage site.
Stunning Renaissance Gardens
Gardens
Wander through beautifully maintained gardens, featuring vibrant flowerbeds, orchards, and peaceful meadows.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Special Events
Allow Ample Time for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Membership Perks 🎟️
Entry is free for National Trust for Scotland members. Consider a membership for great value if you plan to visit multiple sites.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the palace and extensive gardens, so comfortable footwear is a must.
Ask the Guides 👨👩👧👦
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and eager to share stories about the palace's history and its royal inhabitants.
Photo Opportunities 📷
The palace and gardens offer picturesque backdrops, perfect for capturing memorable photos, especially during golden hour.
Tips
from all over the internet
Membership Perks 🎟️
Entry is free for National Trust for Scotland members. Consider a membership for great value if you plan to visit multiple sites.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the palace and extensive gardens, so comfortable footwear is a must.
Ask the Guides 👨👩👧👦
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and eager to share stories about the palace's history and its royal inhabitants.
Photo Opportunities 📷
The palace and gardens offer picturesque backdrops, perfect for capturing memorable photos, especially during golden hour.
Outlander Filming Location 🎥
Fans of Outlander will recognize Falkland as a filming location; it adds an extra layer of magic to the visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Falkland Palace and Garden for its well-preserved historic interiors, knowledgeable and welcoming staff, and beautiful Renaissance gardens. The unique Real Tennis court and its cinematic connections also add to its appeal. While there's no on-site cafe, the charming village offers dining options nearby.
"Amazing palace and the volunteers and the knowledge they share is fascinating. To see Mary Queen of Scots dress like up I loved along with her bed, it's small! The grounds are gorgeous and lots of beautiful photo opportunities. The village is beautiful as well and everyone so friendly and welcoming"
Adele Evans
"A wonderful place to visit. A stunning building with many very knowledgeable staff on hand to tell you the history of the many rooms. The palace is very well preserved.
Once you have walked round the palace the grounds are a must as well, with the world's oldest tennis court which is still used to this day, to the orchard and foundations of the original castle. A fabulous day out with a nice gift shop at the end."
darren m
"Really enjoyed our visit to Falkland Palace! The staff were very friendly and welcoming, and the place itself is beautiful and full of history. The grounds are quite large. We didn’t manage to see the whole garden this time, but we loved what we saw. Definitely planning to come back for another visit!"
April L
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Falkland Palace is located in the village of Falkland, Fife. The nearest car park is about 100 yards from the entrance and is free. For public transport, you can take a bus from nearby towns like Kirkcaldy or Glenrothes.
Yes, there is a free car park located approximately 100 yards from the palace entrance, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While driving is convenient, bus services connect Falkland to larger towns in Fife. Check local bus timetables for routes and schedules from areas like Kirkcaldy or Glenrothes.
While the grounds are generally accessible, some areas within the historic palace may have limitations due to its age and structure. It's advisable to contact the venue directly for specific accessibility information.
From Edinburgh, you can take a train to Kirkcaldy and then a bus to Falkland, or drive via the A92. The journey typically takes around 1-1.5 hours depending on your mode of transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry is free for National Trust for Scotland members. For non-members, adult tickets are around £18. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official website for the most current information.
Yes, tickets can be purchased at the shop or the entrance to the palace on the day of your visit. However, booking in advance is recommended for special events.
National Trust for Scotland members receive free entry. Family tickets and concessions may also be available; check the NTS website for details.
Opening hours vary seasonally. It's essential to check the official Falkland Palace and Garden website for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
For general visits, booking in advance is not always necessary, but it's highly recommended for special events like the Halloween trail or Apple Day to secure your spot.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the historic palace interiors with tapestries and painted ceilings, wander through the beautiful Renaissance gardens, and see the world's oldest tennis court.
Yes, knowledgeable guides are often on hand to share fascinating stories about the palace's history and its royal connections.
Yes, Falkland Palace offers activities for children, including seasonal trails and the chance to explore the gardens and palace.
The Real Tennis court is still used for play. While you might not be able to join a game spontaneously, you can witness matches or inquire about booking opportunities.
Falkland's charming lanes and historic architecture made it a suitable filming location for the movie 'Highlander,' adding to its cinematic appeal.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is no cafe on the premises of Falkland Palace. However, there are several good dining options available in the charming village of Falkland just outside the attraction.
The village of Falkland offers a selection of pubs and cafes where you can enjoy local food and drinks after your visit to the palace.
While not explicitly stated, picnicking in the designated garden or meadow areas might be permissible. It's best to check with the venue staff upon arrival.
The village of Falkland likely has cafes and pubs that offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's recommended to check menus online or ask staff at the establishments.
You can expect traditional Scottish pub fare, light lunches, and cafe-style meals in Falkland village, catering to various tastes.
📸 📸 Photography
The Renaissance gardens, the palace facade, and the historic tennis court offer excellent photographic opportunities. The surrounding village lanes are also very picturesque.
Photography rules can vary. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted in most areas, but it's always best to check for specific signage or ask staff.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) often provides the best light for capturing the beauty of the palace and gardens, with fewer crowds.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historic sites like Falkland Palace to protect the heritage and ensure visitor safety. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
If a match is in progress, you can usually take photos from designated viewing areas, but be mindful of not disturbing the players.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏰 History Buffs
The knowledgeable guides are a treasure trove of information, offering deep insights into the palace's past. 🌿 Garden Enthusiasts
The variety of planting styles, from formal beds to cottage garden charm, offers something for every horticultural interest. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely walk and to appreciate the artistry of landscape design. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Royal Retreat: The History of Falkland Palace
Despite periods of decline and damage, particularly during the Wars of the Covenant, the palace has been meticulously preserved and restored by the National Trust for Scotland. Visitors can explore the royal chambers, marvel at the tapestries and painted ceilings, and imagine the lives of kings and queens who once walked these halls. The palace's involvement in historical events, including its connection to Mary Queen of Scots and its role in the series Outlander, adds layers of intrigue for history buffs.
The palace also holds a unique sporting legacy. It is home to the world's oldest Real Tennis court, dating back to 1539, which is still in active use today. This remarkable court is a testament to the enduring appeal of the sport and a significant part of Falkland's historical fabric.
The Enchanting Renaissance Gardens
+1These gardens are not just about visual beauty; they are a living testament to horticultural heritage. The variety of plants, from perennial borders to traditional cottage garden styles, showcases a dedication to preserving and celebrating botanical diversity. During the autumn, the palace even hosts an 'Apple Day' celebrating the orchard's bounty.
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or simply appreciate natural beauty, the gardens offer a serene experience. They are the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a quiet moment of reflection, or to capture some truly breathtaking photographs. The 'Bridgerton vibes' mentioned by visitors capture the romantic and picturesque quality of these grounds.
Falkland Palace: A Cinematic Gem
Fans of the popular TV series Outlander will recognize Falkland village as the stand-in for Inverness in the early episodes. The historic streets and buildings perfectly evoke the atmosphere of 18th-century Scotland, allowing viewers to step directly into the world of Claire and Jamie. The palace itself also features in the series, adding to its allure for fans.
Beyond Outlander, the palace's picturesque setting also played a role in the cult classic film Highlander. The timeless appeal of the architecture and the surrounding Fife landscape provided the perfect ambiance for the epic fantasy narrative. These cinematic connections add an extra layer of fascination for visitors, allowing them to connect with their favorite stories in a tangible way.
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