St Andrews has plenty to keep visitors occupied, but if you have a few spare hours, Falkland makes a wonderful day out. Just over half an hour away, this picturesque village combines history, beautiful countryside and a relaxed pace of life that makes it easy to spend an afternoon exploring.
For many visitors, Falkland Palace is the main attraction. Once a favourite residence of the Stuart kings and queens, the palace is one of Scotland’s finest Renaissance buildings. The gardens are beautifully maintained throughout the year, while the oldest surviving real tennis court in Britain offers a fascinating glimpse into royal life centuries ago. Even if history isn’t usually your thing, it’s difficult not to appreciate the setting.
More recently, Falkland has found international recognition as the filming location for Outlander. Several streets doubled as 1940s Inverness, and fans of the series will immediately recognise familiar buildings, shopfronts and the famous fountain in the village square. It’s one of those places where television and history seem to blend naturally together.
After a wander around the village, it’s well worth stopping at The Covenanter Hotel. Whether you’re looking for coffee and cake, a leisurely lunch or something a little stronger, it’s an ideal place to sit back and watch village life pass by.
If you enjoy getting outdoors, continue a short distance to the Pillars of Hercules Organic Farm and Café. Surrounded by woodland, the network of walking trails offers peaceful scenery, towering trees and hidden corners that feel a world away from the busy streets of St Andrews. Follow the paths a little further and you’ll discover gentle streams, small waterfalls and views across the Lomond Hills. It’s an easy way to spend an hour or two without feeling rushed.
One of the advantages of travelling privately is the freedom to enjoy the day at your own pace. There’s no timetable to follow and no need to worry about parking or public transport. Stay longer at the places you love, or combine Falkland with nearby villages and attractions to create a bespoke itinerary.
At St Andrews Executive, we provide private transport for individuals, couples, families and larger groups. Whether you prefer the comfort of our Mercedes E-Class, the extra space of a Mercedes V-Class, or require our Peugeot Traveller or Mercedes Sprinter for larger parties, we’ll tailor the journey to suit your plans.
If you’re staying in St Andrews and fancy seeing a little more of Fife, Falkland is one of those places that rewards a visit, it’s the kind of destination you’ll find yourself recommending long after you’ve returned home.