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Falkland Palace

📍 Fife, Scotland

4.4 ★★★★½ 2,200 reviews

About

Falkland Palace, in Falkland, Fife, Scotland, is a royal palace of the Scottish kings. It was one of the favourite places of Mary, Queen of Scots, who took refuge there from political and religious turmoil of her times.

Transformed between 1501-1541 by King James IV and James V into one of Scotland's finest Renaissance palaces, inspired by the grand châteaux of France. Home to the oldest surviving real (royal) tennis court in Britain, built in 1539. James V died here in 1542 after hearing of the birth of his daughter, the future Mary Queen of Scots. Managed by the National Trust for Scotland.

Getting There

🚌 Stagecoach 36

From Glenrothes or Perth to Falkland village

🚗 By Car

On the A912, 11 miles north of Kirkcaldy

🅿️ Village Parking

Free on-street parking in Falkland village

Terrain & Accessibility

♿ Garden Accessible🏛️ Renaissance Palace🎾 Real Tennis Court

The finest Renaissance palace in Scotland, beloved by Mary Queen of Scots. Home to the world's oldest real tennis court (1539). Gardens are accessible. Palace interior involves stairs. Charming village setting. National Trust for Scotland.