Falkland Palace and Garden East Port, Falkland KY15 7BU | |
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Falkland Palace & Garden provides a unique opportunity to explore a royal ‘pleasure palace’ with a Victorian twist.
Inspired by the grand châteaux of France, in the 16th century James IV and his son, James V, transformed this favoured retreat of the royal Stuarts – the palace became one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Scotland.
One of Falkland’s most famous royal residents – Mary, Queen of Scots – was enchanted with the palace, and took advantage of Falkland’s vast estate to pursue falconry and hunting, while also enjoying a game of tennis in what is now the oldest surviving real (or royal) tennis court in the world.
Today, visitors can wander through our historic orchard, complete with a living willow labyrinth, and marvel at the beauty of our formal gardens designed by Percy Cane.
Although it fell into disrepair after 1660, Falkland Palace was saved from ruin in the 19th century by the 3rd Marquess of Bute. Innovative and passionate, Bute gave the palace a new lease of life.
Intricate wood-panelling, impressive painted ceilings and beautifully carved furniture provide a visually stunning insight into Bute’s artistic vision, showcasing his respect for the palace’s Renaissance roots.
Law’s Close is a category A-listed 16th Century Merchant’s House with spectacular period decoration on Kirkcaldy’s High Street.
READ MOREExplore the remains of Scotland’s largest and most magnificent medieval church. Even in its ruinous state, the cathedral remains a prominent landmark highly visible from the sea.
READ MOREGet up close to what is possibly Scotland's oldest standing castle. Aberdour Castle was built in the 1100s and went on to serve generations of three noble families – including a Regent of Scotland!
READ MORESet sail for a very special island in the Firth of Forth – home to the best-preserved group of monastic buildings in Scotland.
READ MOREHill of Tarvit is a wonderful example of Edwardian stately living and also has the only exclusively hickory golf course in the UK.
READ MOREFife Folk Museum in the village of Ceres, offers an interesting and entertaining day out for all the family with activities for all ages.
READ MOREA popular community museum with a permanent display about the Levenmouth area.
READ MOREWelcome to the British Golf Museum. From the 16th century to the present day, the whole history of the great game is explored under one roof.
READ MOREDunfermline Abbey has a special place in the nation’s heart. Laid to rest here are some of Scotland’s great kings and queens – including Robert the Bruce.
READ MOREAdmire the towering defensive façade of a heavily fortified castle, originally built as a royal residence.
READ MOREKellie Castle in Fife dates from as early as the 14th century and has magnificent plaster ceilings, painted panelling and fine furniture designed by Sir Robert Lorimer.
READ MORESt Andrews Museum is a stunning Victorian mansion nestled in the grounds of Kilnburn Park.
READ MORE