History of the estate
Falkland Estate sits at the very heart of Fife on the outskirts of the beautiful conservation village of Falkland just a short journey from Edinburgh and Dundee. Archaeological evidence of hill forts pays testament to the fact that settlements have been here from at least the Iron Age. It was a favourite royal hunting ground of the Stuart monarchs and home to Victorian leaders of rural development and architectural style.
Nowadays, it is a place of thoughtful stewardship and education, organic farming alongside a stunning space for community recreation, volunteering and enjoyment. The Estate covers some 1900 hectares, just under one-fifth of which is wooded, with the rest divided between arable farmland on the low ground and rough grazing on the hills. More than a third is an important “designed” landscape whose major elements date from the 19th century and can be enjoyed from a network of walks that help visitors safely navigate the estate. Whilst exploring the estate visitors may come across a range of built and natural wonders from red squirrels to the Tyndall Bruce Monument.
Having been in private family ownership for generations, Falkland Estate is journeying in to a new era. Sustainability planning is as diverse as the landscape they care for, requiring resources and innovation to respond to environmental changes, economic needs and evolving public expectations.
The Cafe & Shop
Enjoy a hot cup of Modern Standard Coffee in the beautiful woodland garden. They also offer light lunches including toasties, and delicious home-baking. Oh, and the most amazing views of the East Lomond Hill. Open 10am to 4pm every day, reservations are not required. The outdoor garden seating is spacious for you to feel safe in these times we find ourselves in. In the chillier months, They have many of the tables undercover with individual heaters.
In the summer, enjoy sitting back and relaxing with a refreshing smoothie or tub of ice cream. For those who prefer to eat indoors, there is a beautifully presented glass-fronted eating area. The indoor area is ventilated and leads through to the craft shop. The dog friendly café gives a warm welcome to four-legged companions with water bowls and free dog treats on hand. Please keep dogs on leads.
When you are there, take the opportunity to browse round the shop, packed with local craft and ideas. stock ‘felted cards’ – each unique card is handcrafted and it’s the only place these cards are sold! they have a full range of cards for birthdays, best wishes, good luck, seasonal (Christmas, Easter) and specific events such as Valentine’s and Mother’s Day. For anyone looking to grab and go, they offer a full takeaway service from the shop.
Click the link to find out more https://falklandestate.co.uk