Outlander Day Tour - Exploring Scotland’s Outlander Filming Locations: A Deep Dive

Outlander Day Tour

Outlander Day Tour: A Journey Through Scotland’s TV Landscape

Outlander Day Tour - Outlander Day Tour: A Journey Through Scotland’s TV Landscape

If you’re a fan of Outlander, or simply love exploring Scottish castles and historic towns, this 8-hour guided tour from Glasgow offers a chance to walk in the footsteps of Jamie and Claire. For around $225 per person, you’ll visit key filming sites like Blackness Castle, Midhope Castle, and Doune Castle, along with the charming town of Falkland. The tour includes a pickup option (upon request), a small group atmosphere limited to 16 travelers, and a few thoughtful touches like a wee dram of whisky and bottled water.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the opportunity to see multiple iconic locations without the hassle of navigating Scotland’s sometimes tricky roads ourselves. Plus, guides like Sergio have earned praise for their knowledge and friendliness — making the experience both informative and enjoyable. On the flip side, if you’re hoping for detailed behind-the-scenes stories or more in-depth Outlander lore, you might find the narration a bit light at times. Still, for most travelers, the combination of scenery, castles, and show spots makes this a memorable day.

This tour suits Outlander fans, history buffs, or anyone who enjoys Scottish castles and scenic towns. If you’re short on time but want a taste of the series’ famous locations, or if you prefer a guided experience that takes care of transportation, this trip is well worth considering.

Key Points

Outlander Day Tour - Key Points

  • Iconic locations from Outlander like Fort William, Lallybroch, and Castle Leoch are featured.
  • Comfortable transportation and small group size enhance the experience.
  • Knowledgeable guides add context and fun details about filming and Scottish history.
  • Flexible pickup options increase convenience for travelers staying in Glasgow.
  • Authentic Scottish scenery and historic towns like Falkland provide a genuine taste of the landscape.
  • Affordable value for the opportunity to see multiple filming sites in one day.

Exploring Scotland’s Outlander Filming Locations: A Deep Dive

Outlander Day Tour - Exploring Scotland’s Outlander Filming Locations: A Deep Dive

When you book the Outlander Day Tour, you’re signing up for a well-rounded experience that combines Scottish history, stunning scenery, and TV magic. Here’s what to expect at each stop, along with insights into what makes each site special.

Blackness Castle: Fort William in Outlander

Your day begins at Blackness Castle, which on screen is used as Fort William — a stronghold for the series’ Scottish warriors. The castle’s formidable walls and commanding position over the Firth of Forth make it a visually striking site. While the admission isn’t included, the exterior alone offers plenty to admire and photograph.

Travel writers and visitors alike mention that Blackness is a great first stop because it’s accessible and provides authentic castle ruins with a commanding view of the water. One reviewer enjoyed the chance to see the location where some of the series’ intense scenes took place, even if the interior isn’t part of the tour.

Midhope Castle: Lallybroch

Next, the tour heads to Midhope Castle, home of Lallybroch, the fictional residence of Jamie Fraser. It’s a quaint, picturesque ruin, and even with only a 30-minute stop, visitors love the chance to snap photos of the iconic stonework and imagine life on the estate.

While admission is not included, the surrounding landscape is equally captivating — rolling Scottish countryside that makes you feel like you’ve stepped right into the series. One traveler appreciated that the guide provided background info, making the visit more meaningful, although some felt there could have been more Outlander-specific commentary.

Falkland: The Town of Inverness & More

The highlight for many is Falkland, a beautifully preserved town that was used to stand in for Inverness in the series. This stop lasts about an hour and a half, giving time for a leisurely walk through the village, perhaps a quick snack, and a chance to soak in the scenery.

Falkland is famous for its well-preserved historic buildings and charming square. Notably, it was the site of the scene where the ghost of Jamie looks up from a fountain, creating a tangible connection to the show. Reviewers love this stop, describing it as “a perfect blend of Scottish charm and Outlander magic.”

Doune Castle: Castle Leoch

Your tour concludes at Doune Castle, which in Outlander is Castle Leoch, the seat of Clan Mackenzie. The castle’s impressive medieval architecture and well-preserved walls make it the most photogenic stop on the tour. Forty minutes here is enough to explore the grounds, imagine life as a Highland clansman, and snap plenty of pictures.

Though admission isn’t included, many travelers find that the exterior views suffice to transport them into the series’ world. Visitors praise guides like Sergio for sharing fascinating tidbits about how the castle was used in filming and its historical significance.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers some thoughtful touches, like a wee dram of whisky (a welcome Scottish tradition) and bottled water. However, lunch and castle entry fees are not included, so plan for your own snacks or a quick meal during breaks.

The Group Experience and Guide Quality

Most reviews highlight the value of traveling in a small group, which allows for more personalized commentary and easier photo opportunities. Guides like Sergio receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness, often sharing insights about the filming process alongside Scottish history.

One traveler appreciated that even if they were the only person booked—a rare occurrence—they still received a personalized, one-on-one tour, making it a very special experience.

Practical Considerations

The tour departs from Greenock Ocean Terminal at 8:30 am and returns the same day. It’s designed for most travelers—those with moderate mobility should be fine, but keep in mind the stops involve walking around historic sites.

The price of around $225 is reasonable considering the number of locations visited, the guided commentary, and the small group setting. For Outlander fans, it delivers a cost-effective way to see multiple filming sites and Scottish landmarks without the stress of driving or planning.

Authenticity and Value

Outlander Day Tour - Authenticity and Value

While the admission fees to castles aren’t included, the value lies in the expert guidance, scenic drives, and the opportunity to see the actual locations that brought the series to life. Several reviewers remarked on the stunning views and the insightful guides that made their day memorable.

The overall 4.5-star rating reflects consistent praise, especially for the guides’ ability to make the history and filming stories engaging. A few critics wished for more in-depth Outlander lore, but for many, the blend of scenery and show locations hits just the right note.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for Outlander aficionados eager to see filming locations firsthand. If you love Scottish castles, historic towns, or the series’ characters, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. It’s also well-suited for history lovers wanting a relaxed, guided day out with beautiful scenery. However, if you’re seeking a deep dive into film production stories, this may feel a bit light.

Final Thoughts

The Outlander Day Tour from Glasgow offers a well-paced, scenic, and engaging way to explore some of Scotland’s most iconic TV filming locations. The combination of stunning castles, charming towns, and expert guides makes it a worthwhile experience, especially for fans eager to connect with the series in real life.

While it’s not a museum tour with in-depth historical or behind-the-scenes storytelling, it delivers a visual feast and a sense of adventure that many travelers find well worth the price. The small-group format and flexibility make it a comfortable, personal way to see Scottish scenery and series landmarks in one memorable day.

If you’re after a manageable, scenic, and immersive Outlander experience, this tour is a solid choice — especially if you value knowledgeable guides and authentic sights over just ticking boxes.

FAQ

What locations will I visit on this tour?
You will see Blackness Castle (Fort William), Midhope Castle (Lallybroch), Falkland (Inverness), and Doune Castle (Castle Leoch).

Is admission to the castles included?
No, admission fees are not included, but many visitors find the exterior views and landscapes more than enough for great photos and memories.

Can I be picked up from my hotel in Glasgow?
Pickup is available upon request, which adds convenience if you’re staying in Glasgow rather than Greenock.

How long is each stop?
Blackness Castle (1 hour), Midhope Castle (30 minutes), Falkland (1 hour 30 minutes), Doune Castle (40 minutes). The longest stop is Falkland, allowing for a relaxed walk.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider age and mobility—walking around castles and towns involves some uneven surfaces.

How many people are on the tour?
A maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience and better access to guides.

What is the price of the tour?
Approximately $225.29 per person — a good deal considering the number of locations and guided insights.

What’s included in the tour?
A small whisky dram, bottled water, and the guided experience. Lunch and castle entry fees are extras.

What do reviews say about the guides?
Guides like Sergio are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to bring the locations alive.

Would this tour be a good gift for an Outlander fan?
Absolutely. It offers a unique, hands-on way to experience the series’ filming locations and Scottish scenery.

In the end, the Outlander Day Tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and fun way to connect with Scotland’s landscapes and the beloved series. Whether you’re a dedicated fan or just love castles and historic towns, you’ll find plenty of value in this guided day trip.