Outlander Filming Locations Day Tour from Edinburgh

A Day in the World of Outlander: Exploring Scotland’s Famous Filming Locations from Edinburgh

For fans of the hit series Outlander, a guided tour that brings the show’s iconic locations to life offers a chance to walk in Claire and Jamie’s footsteps. This full-day tour from Edinburgh, priced at around $89.15 per person, lasts roughly 9 hours and takes you through a series of castles, villages, and landscapes made famous by the show. Led by knowledgeable guides, the trip promises a blend of Scottish history and TV magic, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

What we especially love about this tour is how it balances entertainment and education—you’ll get fascinating tidbits about the filming process and Scotland’s past, all wrapped up in a comfortable, small-group setting. The use of a climate-controlled vehicle ensures a pleasant journey, no matter the weather, and the stops are timed just right to give you enough time to explore and take pictures.

On the other hand, a key consideration is that some of the castles require admission tickets not included in the price. If you’re a dedicated fan or simply love Scottish scenery and history, this tour offers outstanding value. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a mix of pop culture and heritage, and who don’t mind a full day on the road with a small group of like-minded travelers.

Key Points

• Authentic Outlander experience with visits to filming locations like Blackness Castle and Doune Castle
• Knowledgeable guides add rich stories and insider tips, making the day more engaging
• Comfortable transport with air conditioning and small group sizes foster a relaxed atmosphere
• Historic and scenic stops like Falkland, Culross, and Midhope Castle bring the series to life
• Flexible itinerary includes options to substitute Linlithgow Palace if castles are closed
• Excellent reviews highlight friendly guides and great value for dedicated Outlander fans

Exploring the Outlander Filming Locations from Edinburgh

This tour offers a well-rounded way to see some of the most iconic sites featured in Outlander, without the hassle of planning individual trips. It’s designed for fans who want more than just a quick glance; it’s for those eager to learn about both the series and Scotland’s captivating history.

The tour begins early at 8:45 am from central Edinburgh, with a friendly guide leading a small group in an air-conditioned vehicle. The fact that most travelers book about 73 days in advance speaks to its popularity—fans don’t want to miss out on this immersive experience.

The First Stop: Blackness Castle

Our first encounter is with Blackness Castle, a formidable structure that doubles as Fort William in the series. You might feel a bit of a cinematic shiver as you imagine Captain Jack Randall’s more brutal moments. It’s worth noting that admission tickets are not included, but the exterior views alone make it worthwhile. Reviews rave about the castle’s imposing presence and the stories shared by guides, like Vanessa who called her guide “fantastic” and packed with Scottish history.

Doune Castle: The Heart of Outlander

Next, we visit Doune Castle, easily recognizable as Castle Leoch. It’s a highlight for many, with reviews emphasizing the value of the audio guide featuring Sam Heughan’s voice—a fun addition for fans. We loved the way guides used storytelling to bring the castle’s history alive, making it more than just a photo stop. An hour here gives enough time to walk around, explore the grounds, and snap some photos that will make your friends jealous.

Falkland: A Step Back in Time

The charming village of Falkland was a surprise highlight. With its quaint streets and historic buildings, it’s a perfect snapshot of 1940s Inverness, as seen in the series. Reviewers like Vanessa G appreciated the time allocated, noting it as a “delightful” and “beautiful little village.” It’s here you really get a feel for the Scottish countryside and small-town charm.

Culross: The Picturesque Town Square

Culross stands out as one of the most visually stunning stops. Known as Cranesmuir in Season 1, the town’s cobbled streets and historic buildings make it a photographer’s paradise. The 1.5 hours allotted includes a walk through the town square and a chance to soak in the atmosphere. Many reviews mention how visitors wish they could spend more time here—so if you’re a Outlander fan, be prepared to savor every moment.

Midhope Castle: Lallybroch

Finally, the visit to Midhope Castle—the beloved Lallybroch—brings the series to life. Although the building is condemned and only accessible from the outside, it’s a must-see for fans. As one reviewer pointed out, “The only castle I prefer is free because it’s closed from inside,” highlighting how even exterior-only visits can be rewarding. Admission to the castle itself isn’t included, but the photo ops and the storytelling make it more than worthwhile.

Practical Details and Value

With a maximum group size of 16, this tour maintains an intimate feel, allowing guides to tailor stories and answer questions. The cost of $89.15 per person is quite reasonable when considering the number of locations visited and the depth of information provided. However, note that entry to some castles isn’t included, so be prepared for optional extra costs if you wish to go inside.

The tour’s flexibility is a plus: on days when castles are closed, substitutes like Linlithgow Palace or Callendar House keep the itinerary intact. The timing allows for plenty of sightseeing, with most stops ranging from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours—enough to explore and snap photos without feeling rushed.

Reviews highlight the friendly and knowledgeable guides, with many praising their storytelling skills and enthusiasm. Guide names like Ryan P, Steve, and Charlie come up often, and the feedback consistently underscores how much guides enhance the experience.

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling in a climate-controlled vehicle means you stay comfortable regardless of Scottish weather—whether it’s rain or shine. The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd and allows for a more personal experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for dedicated Outlander fans eager to see the series’ backdrop in real life. It’s also perfect for those interested in Scottish castles and charming villages, blending TV magic with local history. Since most reviews mention the guides’ wealth of knowledge and friendly demeanor, it’s a good choice for travelers who enjoy storytelling and engaging commentary.

Final Thoughts – Who Should Take This Tour?

If you’re in Edinburgh and want a full day immersed in Scotland’s scenic beauty and the Outlander universe, this tour hits the mark. It offers excellent value for the price, especially considering the variety of sites and the expertise of the guides. The small-group format makes it cozy and engaging, ideal for travelers who appreciate a personal touch.

However, if you’re more interested in inside castle tours or prefer a completely flexible schedule, you might want to consider other options or be prepared for additional costs. Remember, some sites may be closed seasonally, so check the schedule if visiting at specific times of the year.

For fans of the series, history buffs, and curious travelers alike, this tour promises a memorable day—bringing Scotland’s stunning scenery and beloved TV series to life in a straightforward, friendly way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for the entire day.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 8:45 am and returning to Edinburgh around 5:30 pm.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. There are stops for lunch at Culross, where you can explore the town square and find options nearby.

Do I need to book my own tickets for castles?
Admission to Doune, Midhope, and Blackness Castle isn’t included, so you’ll need to purchase tickets separately if you wish to go inside.

How many people are on the tour?
The maximum group size is 16, which helps keep the experience intimate and guides approachable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers aged 5 and above can participate, making it suitable for families as well.

What if some castles are closed?
On closure days, the tour substitutes Linlithgow Palace or Callendar House to keep the itinerary consistent.

This Outlander filming location tour offers a blend of Scottish scenery, history, and TV magic—all in a day that’s thoughtfully paced and led by passionate guides. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply love exploring historic villages and castles, it’s a memorable way to see some of Scotland’s most beloved sites.