From Edinburgh: “Outlander” Filming Locations Explorer Tour

If you’re a fan of Outlander or just love discovering Scotland’s scenic spots and historical sites, this tour promises a full day of both. While we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, reviews and descriptions paint a pretty compelling picture. The experience combines the thrill of walking in Claire and Jamie’s footsteps with the chance to see some of Scotland’s most photogenic castles and villages.

What really stands out is the knowledgeable guides who bring stories to life, and the chance to visit iconic locations like Blackness Castle and Falkland. Plus, the price — around $86 — feels like solid value considering the included sights and expert commentary. However, a possible downside is the schedule’s tight timing, which might leave some wishing for more time at each spot.

This trip is ideal for Outlander enthusiasts or anyone interested in Scottish history and scenery. If you’re after a well-organized, immersive day tour that offers both TV magic and cultural insights, this one could be a good pick—just keep in mind it’s a long day and involves some walking and outdoor exploration.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers multiple film locations, castles, and villages, giving a broad taste of Scotland’s scenic and historical appeal.
• Great Value: For about $86, you get guided transportation, entry to several castles, and expert storytelling.
• Expert Guides: Visitors rave about guides like Dusty, Tim, Charlie, and others, noting their storytelling skills and knowledge.
• Flexible Options: Castle entries are optional, and you can choose to explore or just admire from outside if preferred.
• Good for Fans & History Buffs: Whether you’re an Outlander fanatic or a history lover, the tour offers something memorable.
• Some Time Constraints: The schedule is packed, so expect a busy day with limited free time at each stop.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Outlander Filming Locations Explorer Tour

If you’re considering this day trip from Edinburgh, you’ll want a clear picture of what’s involved. From start to finish, the tour spans about 9 hours, with multiple stops designed to bring the Outlander story—and Scottish history—to life. The tour departs from Highland Explorer Tours and whizzes you around in an air-conditioned minibus, making it comfortable for the long day ahead.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting point and early departure: The adventure kicks off bright and early from Edinburgh, setting the tone for a full day of sightseeing. The early start is typical for such a comprehensive tour, helping you beat some of the crowds and make the most of the daylight.

Midhope Castle (Lallybroch): The first major stop is Midhope Castle, famously known as Lallybroch in the series. You’ll stop for about 30 minutes—enough for some photos and a quick look around. Visitors mention that Midhope is a highlight for Outlander fans, offering that authentic Scottish castle vibe. If you choose the castle entry option, you’ll get a closer look, though note that Midhope is seasonally closed from late November to March, with alternative sites used when it’s off-limits.

Doune Castle (Castle Leoch): Next, a roughly hour-long visit to Doune Castle, which also starred in “Game of Thrones” and “Monty Python.” You can admire its impressive structure from the outside or opt to go in if you have tickets. Visitors rave about how well-preserved and atmospheric Doune is, providing a real sense of Scottish medieval architecture.

Culross: The charming village of Culross is a standout. Known for its well-preserved 17th and 18th-century buildings, it served as the setting for Cranesmuir, where Claire was accused of witchcraft. The stop here lasts about an hour, giving you time to stroll, soak in the history, and appreciate the authentic feel of a Scottish burgh. Multiple reviews note how well Culross retains its old-world charm, making it a favorite photo spot.

Falkland: The picturesque village of Falkland is where they’ve recreated 1940s Inverness on film. With 28 listed buildings—the highest designation for architectural or historic importance—this stop is both scenic and culturally enriching. The 45-minute visit is enough to walk around, snap some photos, and imagine being part of the show’s scenes.

Blackness Castle: The final highlight is Blackness Castle, perched on a strategic point overlooking the bay. It’s a cinematic favorite, representing Fort William in the series. The tour spends about 55 minutes here, giving you plenty of time to explore the ramparts and imagine the castle’s role in Scottish history. Note that sometimes, due to circumstances like parking closures, access might be limited, but guides typically adapt quickly.

After Blackness, it’s back on the bus for the return journey to Edinburgh, often filled with reflections and lots of photo sharing.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Many travelers praise the guides, who are often described as engaging storytellers. Whether it’s Dusty, Tim, Cara, or Heidi, their storytelling weaves historical facts with fun anecdotes, making the sites come alive. One reviewer said Dusty isn’t just a guide but a storyteller, performer, and magician with words—a good reminder that the experience isn’t just about the sights but also about how they’re brought to life.

Another key element is the scenery. Scotland’s landscapes, full of rolling hills and dramatic castles, are breathtaking even on a cloudy day. You’ll get plenty of photo opportunities, and the stops are timed well to balance sightseeing with comfort.

The Practical Side: Price, Duration, and Logistics

At $86 per person, this tour offers considerable value, especially considering the inclusion of entry to multiple castles and the guidance. Compare that to the cost of doing similar visits independently; the convenience of transportation and insightful commentary make it worthwhile.

The 9-hour duration means it’s a long day, but most reviews agree the pacing is good. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a full schedule and some outdoor walking. The tour includes hotel pickups and drop-offs are not provided, so you’ll meet at Highland Explorer Tours’ base, which is straightforward.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a fan of Outlander, this tour is a dream come true. The sights are iconic, and the stories make the experience more immersive. Even if you’re not a series devotee, the castles and villages are beautiful and historically significant, making the day just as enjoyable.

Travelers who appreciate guided experiences with knowledgeable guides will find this a good fit. If you’re after a leisurely, unstructured day, you might find the schedule too packed. Also, be prepared for some weather—Scotland’s climate can surprise you, so dress appropriately.

Downsides and Considerations

The main drawback is the tight schedule—with multiple stops and travel times, you won’t have hours at each location. Some places, like Midhope, may be closed seasonally, which the tour adjusts for by substituting other sites like Linlithgow Palace. Weather can also be unpredictable, and delays are possible, so plan your day accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Outlander filming location tour from Edinburgh offers a carefully curated mix of filming spots, castles, and Scottish towns, all narrated by guides who bring history and stories vividly to life. It’s a well-priced, popular experience, especially for Outlander fans eager to see the real-world locations behind their favorite scenes.

While it’s a busy day with some limits on free exploration, the convenience of transportation, the expertise of the guides, and the scenic beauty make it worth considering if you want a structured, engaging way to explore Scotland’s cinematic and historic heartbeat.

If you’re looking for a deep dive into Outlander’s world combined with some of Scotland’s most picturesque locations, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. Just remember to be prepared for a full day, and if you’re keen to explore sites more leisurely or inside, check the seasonal closures and optional extras.

FAQ

Is food included in the tour? No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or plan for lunch during your free time at stops like Culross or Falkland.

Are castle entries included? Yes, entry to Doune Castle, Midhope Castle (if you select the option), and Blackness Castle are included. However, note that some castles are seasonally closed, and the tour will substitute with other sites like Linlithgow Palace.

How long is the tour? The tour lasts about 9 hours, with scheduled stops totaling roughly 4-5 hours of sightseeing, so be prepared for a full day.

Can I join the tour without a guide? No, the experience is guided, and a guide is included as part of the package, providing storytelling and historical insights.

Is this tour suitable for children? The data suggests it’s not explicitly aimed at children under 5, and since it involves outdoor walking and a full day, consider your children’s stamina and interest level.

What should I bring? Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and any personal items you may need for the day.

Are there options for non-Outlander fans? Absolutely. While Outlander fans will love the thematic sites, the castles and villages are beautiful and historically significant enough to appeal to anyone interested in Scottish scenery and history.

If you’re after an immersive day exploring Scotland’s TV-famous spots and castles, this tour offers a well-balanced, engaging experience. It’s perfect for fans craving a storybook Scotland, or anyone wanting a structured, scenic day out from Edinburgh.

You can check availability for your dates here: