4. Falkland Palace

Home to some of Mary Queen of Scots' happiest days – and she didn't have many – there is a magic yet heartrending atmosphere amongst the gardens of this hunting lodge where she played as a girl. Before that it was where, in 1402, the Duke of Albany is said to have held and starved to death his nephew, David, who was heir to the throne. The palace itself is a little worse for wear but the Percy Cane-designed gardens and tennis court (Britain's oldest) are charming. Take time to walk around the village and take tea in one of the old-fashioned teashops.   (© 10Best)

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