The Kingdom of Fife

Falkland Palace & Garden

A fine Renaissance palace with an extensive formal garden and one of Britain’s oldest tennis courts

Overview

Alert warning

The garden, shop and toilet facilities are open daily. The palace remains closed. Access to the garden is through the shop. Please see the Planning Your Visit section for more information.

Woman in Renaissance costume playing tennis in Falkland Palace court

Overview

Explore the country residence of the royal Stuarts, adored by Mary, Queen of Scots.
Admire the spectacular Renaissance architecture.
Learn about many of the finest examples of the Trust’s conservation work, including centuries-old carvings, paintings and furniture.
Discover one of Britain’s oldest original real tennis courts.
Stroll around the beautiful garden and orchard.

Today’s Opening Hours

Palace: Closed
Garden: 11.00–17.00
Shop: 11.00–17.00

See full opening times

Entry prices

Adult: £5.00
Concession: £4.00

See all entry prices

Membership

At all Trust places, admission is free for members.

Join from £4.50 / month

The exquisite Chapel Royal in Falkland Palace
The ruined East Range stands in Falkland Palace Garden
A large tapestry runs along the impressive Tapestry Corridor in Falkland Palace
The world’s oldest Royal Tennis Court at Falkland Palace
Stroll through the orchard in spring

About this place

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.