From Glasgow: Outlander Castles and The Scottish Countryside

Discover the Outlander Magic: Castles and Countryside from Glasgow

If you’re a fan of the hit series Outlander, or just love the idea of exploring Scotland’s stunning landscapes and storied castles, this guided day tour from Glasgow offers an authentic peek into the world behind the show. For around 13 hours, you’ll visit key filming spots like Doune Castle (Castle Leoch), Midhope Castle (Lallybroch), and Blackness Castle (Fort William), along with charming villages such as Culross and Falkland. Led by a passionate local guide, this experience is a well-paced, informative journey into the Scottish Highlands, blending scenery, history, and pop culture.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it balances famous filming locations with genuine Scottish towns. You get to walk cobbled streets in Culross and take in spectacular views over the Firth of Forth from Blackness Castle. The relaxed pace allows you to soak in each spot without rushing, and the commentary from your guide brings the locations vividly to life.

One thing to consider is that entry to the castles is not included—so you’ll want to budget extra if you want to explore inside. Also, the itinerary can shift if some castles are closed, with Linlithgow Palace serving as a backup. This tour suits fans of the series, history buffs, or anyone who appreciates picturesque scenery and storytelling that goes beyond just the show scenes.

Key Points

• Iconic Locations: Visit Castle Leoch, Lallybroch, and Fort William as seen in Outlander.
• Charming Villages: Walk through Culross and Falkland, both filming locations with authentic Scottish character.
• Stunning Views: Enjoy breathtaking panoramas over the Firth of Forth from Blackness Castle.
• Guided Experience: Led by a knowledgeable, expressive local guide who shares behind-the-scenes insights.
• Flexible Itinerary: Includes options for substitute sites like Linlithgow Palace if needed.
• Value: Includes transportation and an audio guide in multiple languages, making it suitable for international visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Outlander Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at Buchanan Street Bus Station in Glasgow, a central and easily accessible location. Arriving 15 minutes early ensures a smooth start, and you’ll settle into a comfortable coach for the day. The journey to the Highlands takes about an hour, giving you time to relax and get your first glimpses of the Scottish countryside. The modern bus is equipped with an audio guide in several languages—including Italian, French, Spanish, German, Portuguese, and Mandarin—which is a thoughtful touch for international travelers.

Exploring Doune Castle (Castle Leoch)

Your first major stop is Doune Castle, famous to Outlander fans as Castle Leoch. This 14th-century fortress is impressive in its own right, with thick stone walls, turrets, and a history that predates the series. We loved the way this location transports you back in time, with its rugged battlements and atmospheric ruins. While you can only explore the exterior, the view from the battlements offers a fantastic overview of the surrounding landscape.

Visitors have noted that “the castle feels like stepping into the show” — and that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s not just a tourist spot but a tangible link to the series and to Scottish medieval history. Be prepared for uneven terrain and some walking, so wear sturdy shoes.

The Charm of Culross

Next, the tour takes you to the picturesque village of Culross, which served as Cranesmuir in the series. This tiny town feels like a movie set, with quaint cobbled streets and traditional buildings. As you wander, you’ll find Claire’s herb garden, a detail that fans will love to see in person.

We enjoyed the relaxed pace here, allowing time for photos, wandering, and soaking in the Scottish charm. The village’s preserved appearance gives a real sense of stepping back into the 17th-century Scotland, making it a favorite for history lovers and Outlander devotees alike.

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Falkland: Inverness in the 1940s

The next stop is Falkland, a small town that doubles as Inverness from the 1940s in the series. The town’s well-preserved architecture and atmosphere evoke that bygone era. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely lunch break and wander around landmarks like the Bruce Fountain, which features in the show’s opening scenes where Jamie’s ghost appears.

Travelers appreciated the “slow pace and scenic views,” noting this as a peaceful and nostalgic stop. You’ll also get some time to explore independently and perhaps take a few photos of the quaint shops and streets.

Midhope Castle (Lallybroch)

The highlight for many is Midhope Castle, known as Lallybroch, Jamie Fraser’s ancestral home. While you can’t go inside, standing outside this iconic estate feels like stepping into the series. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for photos, with lush greenery and the castle’s stone walls as a backdrop.

The reviews mention how “standing before Lallybroch makes you feel part of the show” — which is exactly what fans are after. The lack of interior access is a minor disappointment but doesn’t detract from the overall magic of the location.

Blackness Castle: Fort William with Breathtaking Views

Your final major stop is Blackness Castle, which served as Fort William in the series. This fortress, perched on the Firth of Forth, provides some of the most stunning scenery of the day. The views across the water are spectacular and make for memorable photos.

Inside, you can explore the castle’s ramparts and imagine the scenes of captivity and battle that took place here. The overall experience of being above the water with such a commanding view really wraps up the tour’s scenic highlights.

Return to Glasgow

After a full day of exploring, the coach heads back to Glasgow, arriving just in time for dinner. The ride back offers a chance to reflect on the day’s sights, with the guide sharing additional stories and tips for further Scottish adventures.

Is It Worth the Price?

At the listed price, this tour offers a solid value—especially considering transportation, the guided commentary, and the chance to visit multiple filming locations and towns in one day. Entrance fees to the castles are not included, which means you can decide whether to explore interiors at your own expense.

The inclusion of an audio guide in multiple languages enhances the experience, making it accessible for international visitors. On top of that, the relaxed pace and stunning scenery make the trip more than just a checklist of sites; it’s a chance to truly soak in the Scottish atmosphere.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for Outlander fans eager to see their favorite locations in person, but it also appeals to history lovers and those who enjoy scenic drives through the Highlands. It’s suited for travelers comfortable with a full day of sightseeing, walking on uneven ground, and possibly inclement weather.

It’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or very young children, given the walking and outdoor nature of some stops. But if you’re after a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally rich day with a dash of pop culture, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This tour balances history, scenery, and storytelling in a way that anyone interested in Scotland or Outlander will appreciate. It’s a chance to see authentic castles, stroll through charming villages, and enjoy breathtaking views—all in one manageable day from Glasgow.

The relaxed atmosphere, friendly guide, and stunning locations make it a worthwhile addition to your Scottish itinerary. Whether you’re a dedicated fan or just curious about the series’ settings, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for the landscape and stories that make Scotland so captivating.

FAQs

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides comfortable transportation from Glasgow and back.

Can I visit the castles inside?
Entrance to castles like Doune, Blackness, and Midhope is not included; you’ll visit mainly the exteriors.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and weather-appropriate clothing, as outdoor stops are part of the experience.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there is a stop in Falkland to enjoy lunch on your own.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 5 years old, and children under 17 must be accompanied by an adult.

What if some sites are closed?
The itinerary may change; for example, Linlithgow Palace might replace a closed castle, ensuring you still see key sites.

How long is the drive?
The drive each way is about an hour, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the passing scenery.

Can I bring my luggage?
You may bring 1 suitcase (max 33 lbs/15 kg) and 1 carry-on, but collapsible wheelchairs are allowed if assisted.

This Outlander Castles and Scottish Countryside tour provides a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally immersive day out from Glasgow—perfect for fans of the series and lovers of Scotland alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: