From Edinburgh: The Outlander Experience Guided Tour

If you’re a fan of Outlander or simply love Scottish castles, charming villages, and picturesque scenery, this guided day trip from Edinburgh offers a balanced dose of both. For just $61, you’ll spend about eight hours exploring six key filming locations that bring the series to life. Led by knowledgeable guides like Brendan or Ian, the tour is designed to appeal to fans seeking a behind-the-scenes look, as well as travelers eager to enjoy Scotland’s historic sites and stunning landscapes.

What we love about this experience are two things in particular. First, the authentic connection to Outlander—you’ll walk through real villages and castles that appear in the series, making it feel like stepping into a living set. Second, the expert guides—reviews consistently praise guides like Brendan and Ian for their great storytelling, humor, and depth of knowledge.

One potential consideration is the tight schedule—you’ll visit several locations in a single day, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a fast-paced, organized overview rather than time-consuming exploration at each site. Also, note that Midhope Castle is only accessible from March to December, so if you’re visiting in winter, the itinerary might change slightly.

This tour caters best to Outlander enthusiasts, history buffs, and those who appreciate scenic drives combined with a bit of Scottish history and TV magic. If you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized look at the series’ filming locations—without the hassle of planning multiple transport links—this trip will suit you well.

Key Points

• Authentic filming locations: Visit actual villages and castles used in the series.
• Knowledgeable guides: Expect engaging storytelling and humor from guides like Brendan and Ian.
• Historic sites & scenery: Experience castles, palaces, and picturesque villages that also tell Scottish stories beyond Outlander.
• Value for money: At $61, you get a full-day experience packed with scenery, history, and TV intrigue.
• Tight schedule: Multiple stops mean limited time at each site—good for seeing many places, less ideal for in-depth exploration.
• Seasonal considerations: Midhope Castle is only open March-December; winter visits might see substitution.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins promptly at the Apex Waterloo Place Hotel in central Edinburgh, with everyone gathering outside at 8:20 AM. From there, you’re whisked away in a comfortable, air-conditioned coach, which makes the long day more pleasant. The group size is typically small enough to foster a friendly atmosphere but large enough to feel like a shared adventure.

The coaches are praised for their cleanliness, and the route is carefully planned to maximize sightseeing while minimizing time on the road. The driver-guide acts as both navigator and storyteller, blending Scottish history, series trivia, and humor to keep the journey lively.

Falkland: Inverness in Miniature

The first stop is Falkland, a charming village that doubles as Inverness in the series. We loved the way the village’s historic buildings and stone walls evoke Scotland’s northern city. The 20-minute photo stop allows for capturing the Scottish countryside backdrop and imagining Jamie and Claire’s honeymoon. Multiple reviews highlight the guide’s storytelling—Mary Grace said, “Our guide Brendan was excellent. We learned a lot of true history as well as reminders about the book.”

Falkland’s small-town charm is enhanced by its well-preserved architecture and scenic location between the Lomond Hills. It’s a prime spot for fans to take photos and soak in the series’ atmosphere.

Culross: Cranesmuir and a Step Back in Time

Next, the tour ventures to Culross, a 16th-century village that’s been used extensively to depict Cranesmuir, the fictional village in Outlander’s first season. Here, you can wander cobblestone streets, admire historic buildings, and recognize scenes from the series. Several reviews mention how walking through Culross makes the show come alive, as the setting is very authentic.

The guide points out notable filming sites, and you get some free time to explore, take photos, and perhaps grab a quick snack. The scenic views on the way to Culross are also a highlight—an impressive reminder of Scotland’s natural beauty.

Doune Castle: Castle Leoch

The next major stop is Doune Castle, known as Castle Leoch on Outlander. Exterior shots, courtyards, and the great hall appear in the show’s first season, making this a favorite for fans. The castle’s well-preserved structure offers a tangible connection to the series’ medieval vibe.

Reviews mention that the castle’s size and history make it worth exploring, even if the entrance fee (roughly £10) is not included in the tour price. Some travelers note that on rare occasions, Doune Castle might be substituted with Blackness Castle, depending on weather and opening hours.

More Great Tours Nearby

Linlithgow Palace: Wentworth Prison

Further along, we arrive at Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots, and a filming site for Wentworth Prison. This is one of the most intense locations in the series, where Jamie is imprisoned and tortured. We loved the dramatic ruins set against the Scottish sky, and reviews confirm that this site makes a visceral impression.

The stop includes a chance for refreshments and exploring independently. The 105-minute break is ample for photos, a quick walk, and perhaps a souvenir or two from local shops.

Midhope Castle: Lallybroch

The final major stop is Midhope Castle, the external location of Lallybroch, Jamie’s family estate. This is a must-see for Outlander fans, and many reviews call it the highlight of the tour. The opportunity to walk around the castle grounds and take photos really helps bring the series to life.

However, note that Midhope Castle is only open from March through December. During winter months, the schedule might shift, or access could be limited. Spend your time here soaking up the atmosphere and imagining Jamie’s home.

Returning to Edinburgh

After a full day of sightseeing, the coach heads back to the starting point at Apex Waterloo Place Hotel. Expect to arrive around 6-6:30 PM, tired but full of images and stories to share.

The Value of This Tour

At $61, this guided tour offers remarkable value considering the locations visited, the ease of transportation, and the expertise of the guides. The price covers coach transport, access to Midhope Castle grounds, and the guided commentary, making it a convenient way to see much of the Outlander filming universe without the hassle of organizing individual visits.

While entrance fees for castles like Doune and Linlithgow Palace are not included, the experience of being at these historic sites feels comprehensive. Many reviews rave about the guides—their humor, knowledge, and ability to weave Scottish history with series trivia make the trip lively and educational.

What’s Not Included

The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point. Food and drinks are also not covered, so plan to bring cash for snacks or lunch during the stops. Given the day’s packed schedule, it’s wise to keep your camera ready and wear comfortable shoes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for Outlander fans eager to see the series’ iconic locations in person. It’s equally suited for those interested in Scottish castles, villages, and history, provided they enjoy a brisk pace. The guides, praised for their humor and knowledge, cater well to travelers who appreciate storytelling and context.

On the flip side, if you’re seeking a very leisurely, in-depth exploration of each site, this tour might feel a bit rushed. It’s better suited to those who want a taste of many locations rather than a deep dive.

This full-day Outlander filming locations tour strikes a good balance between sightseeing, Scottish history, and TV fandom. You’ll visit some of the most recognizable spots from the series, enjoy scenic drives through the Scottish landscape, and learn from guides known for their engaging storytelling.

The value for the price is impressive, especially given the number of sites visited and the expert commentary. The experience is lively, educational, and perfect for fans wanting a curated adventure without the stress of planning.

While the pace is quick and some locations only open seasonally, those who aren’t in a rush to linger will find this tour offers a memorable slice of Scotland with a dash of Outlander magic.

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, the tour begins outside the Apex Waterloo Place Hotel, so you’ll need to make your way there.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, with multiple stops and breaks along the way.

What is the price?
The tour costs around $61 per person, which includes transportation and access to Midhope Castle grounds.

Are entrance fees to castles included?
No, entrance fees for Doune Castle and Linlithgow Palace are not included.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, cash for snacks or souvenirs, and comfortable walking shoes.

Is Midhope Castle open year-round?
No, it’s only available from March through December.

What kind of guides lead the tour?
Guides like Brendan and Ian are praised for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling skills.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 years old, given the schedule and walking involved.

Can I expect a small group?
Yes, the tour tends to have a small enough group to feel intimate but lively enough to share stories.

What if the weather’s bad?
The itinerary may be adjusted; on occasion, Doune Castle could be substituted with Blackness Castle.

In summary, if you want a well-organized, engaging look at Scotland’s Outlander locations combined with scenic castles and villages, this tour offers excellent value. Expect a lively day filled with beautiful sights, great stories, and a healthy dose of TV magic—perfect for fans and curious travelers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: