Game of Thrones and Outlander Small Group Tour from Edinburgh

A Private Journey Through Scotland’s Famous TV Locations: Outlander and Game of Thrones Tour

If you’re a fan of Outlander and Game of Thrones, this small-group tour from Edinburgh offers a chance to step into the worlds of your favorite characters. For around $565 per group (up to four people), you’ll spend roughly 5 to 6 hours exploring historic castles and filming sites that have become legendary through their screen appearances. Led by a knowledgeable guide—who, based on reviews, makes the experience both informative and personable—you’ll visit iconic locations like Midhope Castle, Blackness Castle, Linlithgow Palace, and Doune Castle.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are the personalized private experience and the ease of having pickup and drop-off included. We love that the tour feels tailored to your group, avoiding the crowded bus atmosphere typical of larger tours. Plus, the inclusion of local guide insights means you’re not just looking at pretty ruins—you’re learning stories, film trivia, and historical context that deepen your connection to these locations.

A possible consideration is that admission tickets are not included—so you’ll want to budget for these separately. This adds flexibility but also requires some planning. The tour suits fans eager for an up-close look at filming sites, history buffs, and anyone who appreciates a relaxed pace and expert guidance.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Tour: A personalized experience for your party, avoiding crowded group settings
• Historic Filming Locations: Visit castles and palaces used in Outlander and Game of Thrones
• Hassle-Free Pickup: Includes pickup and drop-off from Edinburgh, saving you time and transport worries
• Expert Guide: Learn about Scottish history and behind-the-scenes filming stories
• Flexible Duration: Around 5-6 hours, allowing for in-depth exploration without feeling rushed
• Cost Consideration: Admission tickets are separate, so plan accordingly

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Midhope Castle – Lallybroch, Outlander’s Family Home

Our first stop is Midhope Castle, a striking ruin that represents Lallybroch, the ancestral home of Jamie Fraser. We found this site particularly charming—not just because of its appearance, but because of the detailed explanation of its role in the series. Our guide shared insights about how the castle’s rugged stone walls create a perfect backdrop for Outlander’s Highland escapades.

Without admission included, you might find this visit is more about appreciating the external views and the castle’s atmosphere. We loved the way the guide pointed out details that helped us picture scenes from the show. It’s a quick 30-minute stop, ideal for snapping photos and soaking in the historic vibe.

Blackness Castle – Outlander’s Fort William

Next, we traveled to Blackness Castle, which doubled as Fort William in Outlander. This castle’s imposing presence on the coast offers dramatic views and a tangible sense of Scottish history. Our guide emphasized its strategic importance in the past, though today it’s best known for its TV role.

Spending about an hour here, we appreciated the opportunity to explore the fortress’s ramparts and imagine the scenes of intrigue and conflict. Once again, the admission ticket isn’t included, so plan for that extra expense. The site’s rugged walls and seaside setting make it a captivating place to connect stories with real history.

Linlithgow Palace – Wentworth Prison and Mary Queen of Scots’ Birthplace

Moving on, we visited Linlithgow Palace, which served as Wentworth Prison in Outlander. The palace’s sprawling ruins are a striking reminder of Scotland’s royal past. Our guide shared fascinating tidbits about Mary Queen of Scots, born here, adding an extra layer of significance to the visit.

The one-hour stop allowed us to wander through the grounds and soak up the atmosphere of this historic site. We loved the mix of film storytelling and Scottish royal history, which made the experience feel authentic and educational. Keep in mind, once more, admission is not included, so budget accordingly.

Doune Castle – Winterfell, Castle Leoch, and Monty Python

The pièce de résistance is Doune Castle, famous as Winterfell in Game of Thrones, Castle Leoch in Outlander, and even a humorous spot in Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Here, we enjoyed an audio tour narrated by Outlander’s Jamie Fraser actor and Terry Jones of Monty Python fame, which added a layer of fun.

This site is the longest stop—around an hour—giving us plenty of time to explore its towers, walls, and grounds. The castle’s distinctive architecture makes it instantly recognizable and a favorite for fans. The guide’s storytelling made the history come alive, making this stop memorable.

What Sets This Tour Apart

What makes this tour stand out is the careful curation of filming locations combined with Scottish history. Unlike larger, generic bus tours, this private experience allows for a more relaxed pace and personalized attention. The guide’s knowledge, as highlighted in reviews, is a real highlight, with visitors noting how much they learned and enjoyed the storytelling.

Another advantage is the convenience of pickup and drop-off from your Edinburgh accommodation, saving you from navigating public transport or parking. The use of private transportation also means your group can enjoy a flexible schedule, linger at favorite sites, and ask plenty of questions.

The downside? Since admission tickets are not included, you’ll need to purchase those separately. While this offers flexibility, it’s worth considering in your planning. Also, the tour’s duration—around 5 to 6 hours—means it’s a full but comfortable day out, suitable for those who enjoy a pace that balances sightseeing with learning.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for fans of Outlander and Game of Thrones who want to see the actual locations that brought their favorite stories to life. It also appeals to history enthusiasts, given the rich historical context provided by the guide, and those who prefer a more intimate, private tour rather than a crowded bus.

Travelers with a moderate physical fitness level will find it manageable, as the sites involve walking and exploring ruins and outdoor spaces. It’s an ideal way to combine Scottish castles and landscapes with a pop culture twist, making history and scenery equally accessible.

Final Thoughts: The Value of a Personal Touch

If you’re seeking a relaxed, engaging, and well-informed way to experience Scotland’s most iconic TV filming locations, this private tour hits the spot. The personalized guide makes all the difference, turning a simple visit into a story-rich adventure. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, providing a mixture of cinematic magic and authentic history.

While the cost might seem high at first glance, the value of having your own guide, combined with the convenience of pickup and drop-off, makes it worthwhile—especially for fans eager to connect more deeply with the series and Scotland’s historic sites. The tour’s flexibility and small size ensure you won’t feel rushed, and you’ll leave with a better understanding of both the stories and the stunning landscapes.

This experience suits those who value personalized attention, in-depth storytelling, and authentic film locations—making it a memorable highlight for your Edinburgh adventure.

FAQ

Are the admission tickets included in the tour price?
No, admission tickets are not included, so you’ll need to purchase them separately for each site.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, making it a full but comfortable day out.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, private transportation is included, with pickup and drop-off at your Edinburgh accommodation.

Is this a group tour or private?
It’s a private tour, designed exclusively for your party—ideal for a personalized experience.

What kind of guide will I have?
You’ll have a knowledgeable local guide who shares insights about the filming locations, Scottish history, and behind-the-scenes stories.

Is this tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
Yes, but travelers should have a moderate level of physical fitness, as there may be walking around ruins and outdoor sites.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This private Outlander and Game of Thrones tour from Edinburgh offers a balanced mix of cinematic magic, historic discovery, and personal interaction. Perfect for fans and history lovers alike, it promises an engaging and memorable Scottish adventure.