Outlander Locations Tour Including Admissions from Edinburgh

Exploring Scotland’s Outlander Locations: A Deep Dive into the Iconic Filming Sites from Edinburgh

When you hear “Outlander,” many of us immediately think of Scotland’s sweeping landscapes, dramatic castles, and historical villages brought to life in the hit TV series. For fans and curious travelers alike, the Outlander Locations Tour from Edinburgh offers a well-crafted day to see the real-life sites that inspired the show. Priced at $127.40 per person, this tour packs in about 8 hours and 15 minutes of exploring some of Scotland’s most atmospheric castles and villages, all in the comfort of a luxury 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach.

Two things we love about this tour are the personalized experience that comes with small group sizes—max 16 travelers—and the expert storytelling of your driver-guide, who shares insights not only about the filming locations but also Scotland’s broader history. It’s a tour that balances the pop-culture appeal with authentic Scottish scenery and history.

One potential consideration is the long duration — around 8 hours — which could be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to full-day bus trips. However, for anyone with a love of castles, landscapes, and a bit of TV magic, this tour is well worth the time.

This experience suits Outlander fans wanting to see the filming sites up close, history buffs interested in Scottish castles and villages, and travelers craving a scenic escape just outside Edinburgh. If you’re looking for a mix of entertainment, scenery, and storytelling, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Authentic Locations: Visit real castles and villages featured in Outlander, including Doune Castle, Blackness Castle, Culross, and Linlithgow Palace.
• Small Group: Limited to 16 passengers, promoting a more intimate and engaging experience.
• Expert Guide: Your driver-guide offers lively commentary, blending Scottish history with behind-the-scenes show insights.
• Comfortable Transportation: Travel in a top-quality Mercedes mini-coach with easy access and climate control.
• Flexible Viewing: While admission fees are included for some sites, others are pay-as-you-go, so budget accordingly.
• Timing & Pacing: The itinerary offers ample time at each stop, with a good mix of castles, villages, and scenic drives.

A Close Look at the Itinerary

Midhope Castle — Lallybroch (Jamie’s Home)

Your tour kicks off with a visit to Midhope Castle, famously known as Lallybroch in the series. Although you can’t go inside, the exterior provides a quintessential Scottish castle scene that fans will recognize instantly. The tour mentions that tickets are not included here, so you might want to purchase your own if you wish to explore further. We liked that the outside view remains iconic and offers a perfect photo opportunity. One reviewer mentioned that “Jamies lovely Lallybroch home is still an essential photo opportunity for any fan of the show.”

Blackness Castle — Fort William

Next up is Blackness Castle, which served as Fort William in Outlander. The castle’s formidable look makes it easy to imagine it defending against invaders, and its well-preserved state offers plenty of photo angles. Since the tour includes the admission fee, you can focus on soaking in the views and imagining the scenes that were filmed here. Reviewers loved the experience, with one noting the castle “looks like it could fend off an entire empire,” and appreciated the included entry.

Linlithgow Palace — Mary Queen of Scots & the Series

A highlight for many is Linlithgow Palace, a picturesque ruin with a deep connection to Scottish royalty. It’s also where a particularly intense scene from Outlander was filmed. The site allows visitors to walk through the grounds and imagine the drama of the historical figures who once lived there. The guide’s stories about Mary, Queen of Scots, add flavor, and the location’s scenic beauty is hard to beat. One reviewer found it “a favorite because of its connection to Mary Queen of Scots,” and appreciated the “intense scene” filmed there.

Doune Castle — Castle Leoch

The well-preserved Doune Castle is probably the most recognizable site, serving as Castle Leoch in Outlander. Its towering gatehouse, expansive great hall, and scenic river views make it a favorite among film fans and history buffs alike. Since admission is included, you can spend your time exploring this atmospheric fortress. Many reviews mention Doune Castle as a “stunning castle with lovely views,” and some appreciated the chance to walk around a real medieval site that looks just as dramatic as it does on screen.

Culross — Cranesmuir Village

The charming Culross village is the last major filming location on the tour. Known for its 16th-century buildings, it portrayed the fictional Cranesmuir. The village also featured in movies like Captain America and The 39 Steps, adding to its cinematic appeal. It’s a wonderful place to wander, take photos, and soak up the historic Scottish atmosphere. The tour notes that Culross is free to visit, and many travelers loved the authentic feel of this well-preserved village, with one saying, “Plenty of time to explore the lovely streets and take in the views.”

The Transportation and Group Experience

Traveling in a luxury Mercedes mini-coach ensures comfort and easy access to the often narrow, winding Scottish roads. The small group size (max 16) is a big plus, allowing for more personalized attention and discussion. The driver-guide offers a lively narrative, blending Scottish history with interesting trivia about the show. Multiple reviews praise guides such as Kelly, Shea, Alistair, and Craig for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and good humor.

Duration & Pacing

The tour is approximately 8 hours and 15 minutes, including multiple stops with enough time to explore each site. The review comments reveal that most travelers found the timetable well-balanced, with some noting that the drive felt long at times but worth the journey for the scenery and sites. The bus makes regular breaks, though it’s worth noting there are no restrooms onboard, so plan accordingly.

Cost & Value

At about $127.40, the tour offers good value when you consider the included admissions for Doune and Blackness Castles, the small group experience, and the expert guiding. While some sites require additional tickets, the majority of your fee covers transportation, expert commentary, and a memorable route through Scotland’s film and historic sites.

Accessibility & Practicalities

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a minimum age of 5 years and a reasonable luggage restriction of 14kg (around 31 lbs). It’s near public transport from Edinburgh’s bus station, making it easy to meet up. Keep in mind, the bus isn’t wheelchair accessible, but storage for folding wheelchairs is available.

Authentic Scottish Experience Beyond Outlander

While the focus is on Outlander filming locations, the tour also offers a rich taste of Scottish history and landscape. You’ll pass by ancient castles, historic villages, and stunning countryside, most of which have stories beyond the series. Several reviews mention that even those unfamiliar with Outlander still enjoyed the scenery and history.

Why It Works for Different Travelers

Fans of the series will appreciate the visual connection to the show, especially when guide commentary includes behind-the-scenes insights. History enthusiasts will value the well-preserved castles and stories about Scottish royalty and conflicts. Casual travelers seeking a scenic day trip will love the landscapes, the charming villages, and the chance to escape Edinburgh’s city buzz.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This Outlander Locations Tour from Edinburgh is best for those who want a well-organized, engaging day trip that combines film locations with Scottish history and scenery. If you’re a dedicated Outlander fan, you’ll enjoy the familiarity and the chance to see the sites in person. But even if you’re just curious about Scotland’s castles and villages, the tour’s relaxed pace and expert guidance make it a worthwhile investment.

It’s an excellent choice for travelers who appreciate small, intimate groups, quality transportation, and lively storytelling. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just adding a memorable experience to your Scotland trip, this tour offers a good balance of fun, scenery, and cultural insights.

FAQ

What is the departure point for the Outlander Adventure Small-Group Day Tour?
The tour departs from Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, EH1 3DQ. It’s easily accessible by public transport, which is recommended since parking in the city center can be challenging.

Is parking available near the departure point?
Parking can be difficult to find in central Edinburgh, so using public transit is highly recommended. The tour starts promptly at 9:30 am, so plan to arrive a little earlier.

How early should I arrive for the tour?
Check-in closes 15 minutes before departure. Arriving a bit early ensures a smooth start, especially since the tour leaves on time.

Can I bring luggage with me?
Yes, you’re limited to 14kg (roughly 31 pounds) of luggage per person, similar to a carry-on. The bus has storage for this, but larger bags are not suitable.

Are admission fees included?
Yes, admission fees for Doune Castle and Blackness Castle are included in the tour price. Other sites, like Midhope Castle and Linlithgow Palace, are pay-on-arrival unless you purchase tickets beforehand.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather, as you’ll be exploring outdoor sites. Layers are advised given Scotland’s unpredictable climate.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children aged 5 and older can participate, but they must be able to get on and off the bus independently. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but folding wheelchairs are stored onboard.

To sum it up, the Outlander Locations Tour from Edinburgh offers a thoughtfully curated day of Scottish castles, villages, and scenery, with a dash of TV magic. It’s perfect for fans eager to see the series’ landscapes in real life, history lovers wanting to explore Scotland’s ancient sites, and curious travelers seeking picturesque escapes. The combination of small groups, expert guides, and scenic routes makes it an experience that balances fun, insight, and comfort — a memorable way to see Scotland beyond the city.