Edinburgh: Iconic Outlander Locations Guided Day Tour

If you’re a fan of the Outlander series or just captivated by Scotland’s dramatic landscapes and historic castles, this Edinburgh: Iconic Outlander Locations Guided Day Tour offers a well-organized, engaging way to see the sites that bring the beloved stories to life. For around 8 hours, guides take you through famous locations like Doune Castle, Culross village, and Blackness Castle, all packed with tales of the show, Scottish history, and behind-the-scenes insights. Priced reasonably, this tour provides a mix of history, scenery, and pop culture in a compact day.

We love how the guides are passionate and knowledgeable, effortlessly weaving stories that connect the dots between the real-life sites and their Outlander counterparts. The stops at Lallybroch (Midhope Castle) and Culross are especially enchanting, as you get to walk the cobbled streets and imagine Jamie and Claire wandering around. A notable highlight is the opportunity to sit on the iconic steps of Lallybroch, which feels like stepping directly into the series.

A couple of things to consider: the day involves quite a bit of walking on uneven terrain, especially at the castles and historic sites, which might not be suitable for those with mobility issues. Also, the itinerary can change slightly due to local events or weather, as is common with outdoor tours. This experience suits Outlander fans, history buffs, or anyone eager to enjoy stunning Scottish scenery with a flair for storytelling.

Key Points

Authentic filming locations bring the series to life with detailed stories.
Expert guides make the experience engaging and informative.
Beautiful Scottish landscapes frame each stop, adding to the magic.
Flexible options for departure points make logistics easier.
Good value for a full day of exploration with entrance fees included.
Limited mobility accessibility at certain sites to keep in mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Lowdown on the Outlander Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at Linlithgow Train Station, a convenient spot just 20 minutes by train from Edinburgh or 30 from Glasgow. This accessibility is a plus for travelers staying in either city. You’ll meet your guide and fellow fans, then hop onto a comfortable, air-conditioned coach for the day. The tour duration is around 8 hours, with departure times depending on the season, typically around 9 am.

The tour ends back at Linlithgow around 4 pm (winter) or 5 pm (summer). This timing means you get a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed, and the option to explore Linlithgow further afterwards — especially since it’s the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots and a filming site for Outlander‘s Wentworth Prison.

The Highlights and Why They Matter

Doune Castle (Castle Leoch)

Your first stop is Doune Castle, a 14th-century fortress that served as Castle Leoch in the series. The guided tour here lasts about 45 minutes, during which your guide shares stories about the castle’s history as well as behind-the-scenes filming anecdotes. You’ll love the way this medieval fortress, with its rugged stone walls and towers, transports you back in time. One reviewer gushes, “We loved the way our guide brought the castle’s history alive, blending facts with Outlander stories seamlessly.”

Culross Village (Cranesmuir)

Next, you’ll explore Culross, a remarkably preserved 17th-century town that doubles as Cranesmuir in the show. Wandering through its cobbled streets, you can imagine Jamie and Claire strolling past the quaint cottages. The visit includes a walk at Culross Palace, where the famous herb garden behind the palace mimics Claire’s garden from the series. This stop is particularly praised for its authenticity and picturesque charm. One guest notes, “It’s like stepping into a living postcard, full of history and the show’s magic.”

Hopetoun House

Following Culross, you’ll visit Hopetoun House, a stately estate that doubled as the Duke of Sandringham’s residence and other locations. The guide offers a detailed tour of this grand building, which provides a real sense of Scottish aristocratic life. The estate’s gardens and impressive interiors are highlights, and if available, you might appreciate the chance to see Lallybroch (Midhope Castle), where you can snap photos on the iconic stairs.

Lallybroch (Midhope Castle)

Often considered the tour’s star attraction, Midhope Castle is the fictional home of Jamie Fraser. Though the castle itself is modest, standing on the steps gives you a tangible connection to the series. One reviewer comments, “Getting a photo on the stairs was a dream come true, and it’s clear how much passion guides the guides when they tell stories.”

Blackness Castle (Fort William)

The last major site is Blackness Castle, which served as Fort William in the series. Sitting on the River Forth, this fortress’s imposing walls and strategic location make it a dramatic sight. The guide shares tales of the castle’s history and its role in Scottish wars, adding depth to your visit.

Additional Highlights and Flexibility

If time permits, at the end of the day, you’ll have an option to visit Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots and a filming location for Wentworth Prison, enriching your Scottish history and Outlander knowledge further.

The tour includes all entrance fees for the sites listed, which adds great value. The guides are professional, friendly, and passionate, often sharing insider stories and humor that bring the locations to life. One traveler mentions, “Our guide, Sarah, made the history fun and engaging – she clearly loved the subject.”

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and Tips

• The coach is comfortable, but be prepared for some uneven terrain at castles and historic sites. Good walking shoes are essential.
• Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery and iconic sites.
• Entrance fees are included, but you should carry cash or a credit card for optional extras or souvenirs.
• The tour operates from March to February, with different itineraries for summer and winter.
• It’s not suitable for travelers with mobility restrictions, as many sites involve cobblestones or uneven walkways.

Value for Money and Overall Impression

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, scenery, and pop culture, all packed into a single day. Compared to individual site visits, the guided approach saves time and enriches your experience with storytelling. While it’s not inexpensive, the inclusion of all entrance fees and the quality of guides make it a compelling choice for Outlander fans and history enthusiasts alike.

Reviewers repeatedly highlighted the knowledgeable guides, with one saying, “They made the locations come alive with stories I’d never heard before.” The stunning landscapes and authentic filming locations, combined with a well-organized itinerary, make this tour a worthwhile investment.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for Outlander fans eager to see filming locations in person, but it also suits travelers interested in Scottish castles and historic towns. If you like guided tours that blend storytelling with scenery and value a full day of sightseeing, you’ll find this tour satisfying. However, if you have mobility restrictions or prefer more independent exploration, some sites may be challenging.

Overall, it’s perfect for those who appreciate engaging guides, scenic drives, and a chance to connect stories from the screen with real places. It’s a solid choice for those looking to deepen their appreciation of Scotland’s landscapes and history through the lens of a beloved series.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting around 9 am and returning by 4 or 5 pm depending on the season.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Linlithgow Train Station, which is easily accessible from Edinburgh and Glasgow, and finishes back at the same location.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the price covers entrance to Doune Castle, Culross Palace, Hopetoun House, Midhope Castle (if available), and Blackness Castle.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
While generally suitable for most travelers, those with mobility issues should be aware that many sites involve uneven terrain and cobblestones.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are full refundable if made at least 48 hours in advance. Cancellations after that are not eligible for refunds.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation is by a comfortable, air-conditioned coach, with pickup and drop-off options at specified locations.

To sum it up, this Outlander filming locations tour offers an authentic, well-paced journey through some of Scotland’s most iconic sites. It’s a fantastic way for fans and history buffs alike to connect stories to real places, all while enjoying Scotland’s scenic beauty. If you’re looking for a fun, informative, and immersive day, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially suited for those who want a guided experience that combines storytelling, scenery, and a touch of magic from the series.

You can check availability for your dates here: