Falkland

The basics

Scotland’s first conservation area, Falkland mingles centuries of history, regal landmarks, scenic cobblestone streets, and even a dose of pop culture—the village had a star turn on the show “Outlander,” standing in for Inverness. Beyond its appearance on the small screen, Falkland is also celebrated for its walks (follow hikers up to the peak of West Lomond); the Falkland Estate, whose 4,700 acres (1,902 hectares) were once used as royal hunting grounds, and which was frequented by Mary, Queen of Scots; and for its range of cozy pubs and tearooms.

There are multiple ways to explore Falkland, given that it is located within day-trip distance of hubs like Edinburgh and Perth. The village also features on “Outlander” filming locations tours, trips to Fife’s scenic villages, and Mary, Queen of Scots–themed excursions.

Things to know before you go

• History lovers can tour Falkland’s listed buildings, including the Falkland Town Hall, Brunton House, and the House of Falkland.

• Prepare for wet weather. The region experiences a fair amount of cloud cover, rain, and even snow in the winter, and it’s best to come prepared with coats and umbrellas.

• Don’t forget to get outside at Falkland Palace: It’s home to a range of gardens, plus one of the oldest royal tennis courts in the world.

How to get there

Falkland is located in the Fife region of Scotland. It is around 17 miles (27 kilometers) by car from Perth via the A912, and about 38 miles (61 kilometers) by car from Edinburgh via the M90 and A92. The nearest train station to Falkland is Ladybank, some 5 miles (8 kilometers) away, and buses and taxis connect the station with the village.

When to get there

The best time to visit Falkland is in the spring and summer months, when there’s more likelihood of good weather and when the village is at its liveliest. You’ll also be better able to visit sights like Falkland Palace, which is open seasonally, typically from early spring until late autumn.

“Outlander” filming locations

In “Outlander,” Falkland was used as a stand-in for 1940s Inverness, thanks to its wealth of historic architecture. Fans of the TV show can see where multiple scenes were shot when they tour filming locations like Falkland Square, The Covenanter Hotel (which doubled as Mrs. Baird’s B&B in the show, aka where Claire and Frank have their second honeymoon), the Bruce Fountain, and the Falkland Village Old Town Hall.

What are the top attractions to visit in Falkland?

The top attractions to visit in Falkland include Falkland Palace & Garden, known for its history as a royal residence that Mary Queen of Scots adored; Lomond Hills and Maspie Den, two popular outdoor destinations that offer scenic walks, and Bruce Fountain, a photogenic landmark at the center of the village.

How has Falkland gained popularity in recent times?

Falkland has gained recent popularity due to its appearance as a filming location in the popular TV series Outlander. In the show, Falkland stands in for a 1940s depiction of Inverness, and the village’s historical buildings and quaint cobbled streets are featured in Season 1 and Season 2.

What are the best day trips from Falkland?

Outlander fans can go on a route that covers other filming locations from the hit TV series, such as Midhope Castle (Lallybroch), Blackness Castle (Fort William), and Doune Castle (Castle Leoch). Other notable day trips include visits to the seaside town of St. Andrews and the fishing villages of Fife.

Is Falkland a good day trip destination from central Scotland?

Yes, Falkland is a fantastic day trip destination from central Scotland. It’s possible to get there by bus, on a self-drive tour, or on an organized tour to save the hassle of planning logistics. The area offers historical sites, such as Falkland Palace and Garden, beautiful hiking spots, and Outlander filming locations.

How is Falkland connected to Mary Queen of Scots?

Falkland’s connection to Mary Queen of Scots centers around the magnificent Falkland Palace & Garden. This Renaissance palace, once a Royal Hunting Lodge, was a favored retreat for the queen. She often engaged in falconry, hunting, and tennis here, immersing herself in the palace's beautiful grounds and abundant leisure activities.

What should hikers know about climbing the Lomond Hills in Falkland?

When hiking to East Lomond's summit in Falkland, be prepared for a challenging climb. Appropriate footwear and windproof clothing are essential due to this area's steep terrain and potentially strong winds. Despite these challenges, hikers are rewarded with incredible views, making the effort well worth it.