Falkland

Introducing Falkland

Below the soft ridges of the Lomond Hills in the centre of Fife is the charming village of Falkland. Although overrun with tourists in summer, it’s a captivating town and there are many heritage-listed conservation buildings.

Rising majestically out of the town centre and dominating the skyline is the outstanding 16th-century Falkland Palace (NTS; 857397; adult/child £10/7; 10am-5pm Mon-Sat, 1-5pm Sun Mar-Oct), a country residence of the Stuart monarchs. Mary, Queen of Scots is said to have spent the happiest days of her life ‘playing the country girl in the woods and parks’ at Falkland. The palace was built between 1501 and 1541 to replace a castle dating from the 12th century; French and Scottish craftspeople were employed to create a masterpiece of Scottish Gothic architecture. The king’s bedchamber and the chapel, with its beautiful painted ceiling, have both been restored. Don’t miss the prodigious 17th-century Flemish hunting tapestries in the hall. One feature of the royal leisure centre still exists: the oldest royal tennis court in Britain, built in 1539 for James V. It’s in the grounds and still in use.

Opposite the palace, the very cosy little Hunting Lodge (857226; timlees@huntinglodge.fsbusiness.co.uk; High St; s/d from £27.50/45) dates back to 1607. The homely rooms, exuding warmth and character, are upstairs, while pints and chattering locals furnish the downstairs area.

An 18th-century coaching inn, on the square opposite the palace, Covenanter Hotel (857224; www.covenanterhotel.co.uk; The Square; s/d/ste £46/64/72) is a snug, classy little abode with fine rooms that are often discounted when things are quiet (it’s worth asking!). The three-person suite is the best.

Falkland is 11 miles north of Kirkcaldy. There are Stagecoach Fife buses roughly hourly Monday to Saturday to/from Perth (one hour) and Cupar (30 minutes).

Last updated: Mar 2, 2009