Private ‘Outlander’ Film Locations Day Trip from Edinburgh

A Day of Outlander Magic—From Edinburgh to Scotland’s Screen and Scene

If you’re a fan of Outlander—whether through the television series or the beloved books—this private Outlander film locations tour offers an exciting way to see Scotland through the lens of your favorite characters. Priced at around $451 per person and lasting approximately 8 hours, this tour takes you from Edinburgh into the dramatic Highlands, visiting real castles and palaces that served as the backdrop for the series. Your guides—like Stephen and Sam—bring the locations to life with behind-the-scenes stories, show-to-screen comparisons, and a love for Scottish history and storytelling.

What we particularly appreciate is this tour’s personalized approach. It’s fully customizable, so you can focus more on your favorite sites or add on special stops. Plus, the hotel pickup and drop-off make it a very convenient way to explore without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar routes. The private vehicle ensures space and comfort, with air-conditioning and bottled water provided, making the long day more comfortable.

One thing to keep in mind is that some locations, like Midhope Castle, may be inaccessible during certain seasons or filming periods. Still, with several stunning stops—like Blackness Castle, Doune Castle, and Culross Palace—you’ll get plenty of Outlander scenery and Scottish history. This is an ideal trip for dedicated fans who enjoy storytelling intertwined with scenic drives and authentic castles.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love personalized, behind-the-scenes experiences. If you’re a superfan eager to see your favorite filming locations and learn more about the filming process and Scottish castles, you’ll find this trip a true highlight. It’s also great for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides who can share both Outlander tidbits and historic context.

Key Points

• Fully customizable: You can choose which stops to prioritize, making the day tailored to your interests.
• Private & comfortable: The tour includes private transportation, hotel pickup, and drop-off, ensuring a stress-free experience.
• In-depth storytelling: Guides like Stephen and Sam bring a wealth of knowledge about the show, filming, and Scottish history.
• Authentic sites: Visit real castles and palaces that once hosted Scottish royalty, now famous from TV.
• Flexible stops: You can choose to include optional photo stops, enhancing your photographic memories.
• Limited access to some sites: Locations like Midhope Castle may be unavailable during certain seasons or filming dates.

Exploring the Outlander Locations: A Walkthrough of the Itinerary

Midhope Castle—Lallybroch

This is the highlight for many fans—the fictional home of Jamie Fraser and the centerpiece of Outlander’s first seasons. We love the thrill of seeing the actual estate where much of the series was shot. However, it’s important to note that access can be restricted—sometimes due to filming, estate business, or seasonal closures, especially in winter. The fact that admission isn’t included means you’ll need to budget extra if you wish to explore inside or on the estate grounds.

From the reviews, we see that visitors like Kathryn_T appreciated the background info provided by Stephen, who used an iPad to help visualize scenes, making the distant castle come alive with familiar images from the show. If you’re lucky with the timing, you might get a good look at the exterior, but don’t count on stepping inside.

Blackness Castle—Fort William

Often called the “Ship of the Highlands,” Blackness Castle played the role of Fort William in the series’ first two seasons. The castle’s imposing walls and seafaring location give it a dramatic feel, perfect for fans wanting to see where some of the most memorable scenes were shot. Recently, it also appeared in movies like Mary Queen of Scots and Outlaw King, adding to its cinematic credentials. The 45-minute stop offers enough time to wander around and take photos, though admission isn’t included, so plan for an extra fee if you’d like to go inside.

Doune Castle—Castle Leoch

This is the most accessible of the castles, as admission is free. Known for its role as Castle Leoch in Outlander, it’s also famous for appearances in Monty Python and Game of Thrones. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to walk through these historic walls and imagine Outlander’s Highland stronghold. Many reviewers, including Jeffrey P, praise the guide’s ability to share show insights alongside Scottish history. The relaxed 45-minute visit here makes it a highlight, especially since it’s free and offers plenty of photo opportunities.

Culross Palace and Village

In seasons 1, 2, and 4, Culross became a key filming location—portraying the fictional village of Crainsmuir. Its preserved historic streets and the palace’s grand façade make it a favorite for fans wanting an authentic Scottish town experience. Entrance isn’t included, but wandering through the cobbled streets transports you back centuries. Tour guides share stories of how the village was transformed for filming, adding layers of context that enrich the experience.

Optional Photo Stop

Depending on your preferences and timing, a brief photo stop may be added, giving you a chance to capture the stunning Scottish landscapes and historic sites at your leisure.

What We Love About This Tour

The personalized nature of this trip is truly a standout. Unlike large group tours, it allows for flexibility—whether that’s spending more time at a favorite site or skipping ahead to avoid crowds. The guides’ expertise shines through: Stephen, for example, makes the scenes come alive with visual aids, and Sam’s stories about meeting cast members add personal touches that make the experience memorable.

Plus, the comfort of private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle means you won’t be exhausted by long bus rides or crowded tours. The small group and private nature create an intimate atmosphere that encourages questions and discussion, especially if you’re deeply invested in Outlander.

The value of this tour lies not just in the sites, but in the context provided. Whether you’re marveling at the medieval charm of Doune Castle or imagining life at Lallybroch, the guides’ storytelling bridges the gap between fiction and reality. Plus, the inclusion of bottled water and hotel pickup drops the usual logistical concerns, letting you focus on the scenery and stories.

A Few Considerations

While the tour is largely flexible and tailored, some locations may be inaccessible or closed during certain times of the year—something to keep in mind when planning your trip. Also, since admissions aren’t included, you’ll need to budget extra for entry fees at places like Midhope and Culross Palace. This can add to the overall cost, but many find the added expense worthwhile for the experience.

The 8-hour duration is enough to explore multiple sites in reasonable depth, but if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to explore additional attractions, you might want to extend your trip or plan for extra time in the area later.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for hardcore Outlander fans eager to see the filming locations firsthand and learn behind-the-scenes stories. If you enjoy storytelling and Scottish castles, you’ll find the guide’s insights particularly engaging. It also appeals to travelers who prefer private, tailored experiences over large group tours, valuing comfort and flexibility.

On the other hand, if you’re on a tight budget, the extra costs for admissions and optional stops might add up—so consider whether the personalized experience and guided storytelling are worth the investment. For those interested in Scottish history wrapped in TV magic, this trip blends the best of both worlds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is generally suitable for most ages, especially since it involves walking around castles and open outdoor sites.

How long are the stops at each location?
Stops typically last around 20 to 45 minutes, giving enough time for photos and brief explorations, though the exact duration can be tailored based on your preferences.

Are the locations accessible during winter?
Access to some sites like Midhope Castle can be restricted during winter or filming periods, so it’s wise to check ahead or plan for alternative stops.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers private driver/guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, air-conditioned vehicle, and bottled water. Admission fees for sites are not included.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, the tour is fully customizable—just discuss your preferences in advance so your guide can tailor the day to your interests.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book around 93 days in advance on average, especially during peak tourist season, to secure your preferred date and guide.

Is this a group or private tour?
This is a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, giving you personalized attention.

How many people typically go on this tour?
Since it’s private, it’s just your group, but the vehicle and guide are tailored to accommodate your size comfortably.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle is used, ensuring a pleasant ride through the Highlands.

What if I want to add other sites or stops?
Since the tour is customizable, you can discuss additional locations beforehand, and your guide will do their best to accommodate your wishes.

To sum it up, this Private Outlander Film Locations Day Trip offers a wonderful blend of scenic drive, authentic castles, and engaging storytelling—perfect for fans eager to see the show come to life in the real Scottish landscape. Its personalized approach, knowledgeable guides, and comfortable transport make it a worthwhile splurge for those wanting a tailored, immersive experience. If you’re passionate about Outlander, Scottish history, or just love exploring castles, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip to Edinburgh.