Outlander’s Scotland Tour – Rebel Jacobite Tour

If you’re a fan of Outlander, or just someone curious about Scotland’s rebellious past, this Rebel Jacobite Tour promises a lively, immersive look into Edinburgh’s wild history. We haven’t done the tour ourselves, but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it seems like a great way to combine storytelling, history, and a bit of Scottish flair—all in a manageable 1.5-hour stroll through the Old Town.

What really shines about this experience is the award-winning guide dressed in authentic handmade costumes, which adds a special touch of realism. Plus, exploring hidden closes and secret alleyways is a treat for anyone who loves discovering lesser-known corners of a beloved city. The fact that it’s pet-friendly and offers a personalized concierge service makes it appealing for many travelers. The only caveat? The tour is quite short, so if you’re looking for an in-depth dive into Scottish rebellion, you might want to supplement this with additional sightseeing.

This tour is especially suited for history lovers, Outlander fans, families exploring Edinburgh, or anyone who enjoys a mix of storytelling with walking. If you’re after a personalized, visually engaging experience that ties real locations to Scotland’s rebellious stories, this could be a solid pick. Now, let’s unpack what makes this tour tick—and what to expect along the way.

Key Points

• Authentic Costumes: Guides wear historically accurate Scottish clothes, adding a real sense of immersion.
• Rich History: Focuses on the Jacobite uprising, Bonnie Prince Charlie, and rebel routes through Edinburgh.
• Hidden Gems: You’ll explore secret alleys and less touristy spots known only to locals.
• Family-Friendly: Pet-friendly and accessible, suitable for a variety of travelers.
• Cultural Highlights: Traditional bagpipe music and stories of love, betrayal, and bravery.
• Concierge Service: Personalized recommendations for dining and shopping afterward.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Outlander’s Scotland Tour

Setting the Scene: Starting at St Giles’ Cathedral

The tour begins at the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral, a central spot in Edinburgh’s Old Town. Here, your guide — dressed in a meticulously crafted costume — will welcome you and set the tone for what’s to come. This initial encounter is crucial; it offers a chance to get a feel for the guide’s storytelling style, which reviewers describe as knowledgeable and engaging. One reviewer from the Netherlands noted, “The guide knew how to tell stories beautifully, sometimes even acting a bit.” That theatrical touch really helps bring history to life.

Exploring Victoria Street and the Royal Mile

From St Giles’, you’ll stroll down Victoria Street, one of Edinburgh’s most picturesque and colorful alleys. Known for its charming shops and vibrant facades, this street connects you to the famed Royal Mile. As you walk, your guide will point out historic buildings, secret passages, and locations that played a role in Jacobite events.

One of the highlights here is discovering hidden closes—narrow alleys that seem like portals into the past. The reviews praise these hidden spots as “atmospheric” and authentic, much like scenes from the series or historical novels. The guide’s local knowledge shines here, revealing secret corners often missed by travelers.

The Heart of the Tour: The Royal Mile

Spanning from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, the Royal Mile is packed with stories. For 45 minutes, expect your guide to recount tales of rebellion, love, and treachery, intertwined with real locations where rebels and conspirators once gathered.

Reviewers mention that the guide is highly knowledgeable, often providing extra historical context beyond the tour script, which makes the experience more meaningful. Since the tour is relatively short, it’s a brisk walk, but packed with enough stories and sights to satisfy history buffs.

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Delving Into Edinburgh’s Old Town

The final stretch takes you through Edinburgh’s Old Town, where you’ll learn about the Jacobite routes—the paths Bonnie Prince Charlie and his supporters used in their campaigns. Walking these streets, you get a tangible sense of the rebellion’s daring, especially knowing that you’re on the same cobblestones where rebels plotted and fought.

One reviewer loved how the guide interwove stories of love, betrayal, and courage, making history feel personal and alive. The guide’s costume and acting skills add another layer of authenticity, making this feel like stepping back in time.

Wrapping Up Back at St Giles’

The tour ends back at the starting point, giving you a chance to reflect or continue exploring. The guided walk includes professional photography opportunities in scenic spots, so you can capture memories dressed in costume or against historic backdrops.

What’s Included and What to Know

The price of $24 per person offers surprisingly good value for the quality of storytelling, costumes, and access to secret spots. The tour’s small group size (max 30 people) ensures a personal experience, and the all-weather operation means you’ll be covered whether rain or shine—Scottish weather can be unpredictable.

The guide’s costume and acting skills are a core part of the experience, making history feel more tangible. Plus, being pet-friendly means you can bring your furry friends along, which is rare for city tours.

Accessibility is also considered, with routes suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. However, you’ll need to bring your own mobility devices if needed, since they aren’t provided.

Duration & Timing

At 1.5 hours, this is a compact tour, ideal if you want a quick but immersive dose of Edinburgh’s Jacobite lore. The tour runs at scheduled times—be sure to check availability beforehand.

Notable Extras

• Traditional bagpipe music set the mood in atmospheric spots
• Stories of famous dogs and local legends
• Personalized concierge service for restaurant and shopping tips

How This Tour Compares

Considering other Outlander-related tours, this one stands out for its authentic costumes and local secrets. Many options focus on filming locations, but this tour emphasizes history and storytelling, making it more educational and immersive. Its price point is reasonable, especially given the personalized attention and quality of guides.

User Reviews & Feedback

Esther from the Netherlands rated it 5/5, describing it as “really educational,” praising the guide’s storytelling. She appreciated the costume and the detailed stories. Pat from the U.S. gave a solid 4/5, noting the knowledgeable guide and period dress as highlights.

These reviews suggest that if you appreciate expert guides who act and tell stories well, you’ll likely enjoy this tour. It’s especially appreciated by those who want a personalized, engaging experience rather than just a checklist of sights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience appeals most to history and Outlander fans, but it’s also good for anyone wanting a walking tour with personality and local flavor. It’s suitable for families with children (especially pet owners), but may not be ideal for those with mobility issues or who prefer longer, more in-depth explorations.

Couples, solo travelers, and groups looking for a short, memorable authentic experience will find this tour hits the mark. If you’re seeking a visual, storytelling-rich introduction to Edinburgh’s rebellious past, this is a solid choice.

Final Thoughts

The Outlander’s Scotland Tour – Rebel Jacobite Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into Edinburgh’s rebellious history, brought to life by a passionate, well-costumed guide. It balances entertainment with education, making it a worthwhile addition to your Edinburgh itinerary—especially if time is limited but you crave depth and personality.

The price is fair considering the personalized storytelling, costumes, and access to secret spots. It’s a tour that will leave you with vivid images of Edinburgh’s past, and stories to share long after your trip ends. Whether you’re an Outlander enthusiast or just a lover of Scottish tales, this tour is likely to add a memorable chapter to your visit.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, its short duration and engaging storytelling make it suitable for older children and teenagers. Keep in mind, it’s a walking tour with some historical storytelling that might be best appreciated by those with an interest in history.

Is the tour pet-friendly?
Yes, the tour welcomes furry companions, making it a good option if you want to bring your dog along. Just remember to bring any necessary items for your pet’s comfort.

What should I bring?
Bring a coat or jacket, as Scottish weather can change quickly. An umbrella and camera are also recommended to capture the scenic and historic moments.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours. Be sure to check availability for your preferred time slot.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the routes are wheelchair and mobility scooter accessible, but you’ll need to bring your own device.

What is included in the price?
You get a costumed guide, access to secret spots, traditional bagpipe music, and personalized concierge services. The tour operates in all weather conditions.

What is the starting point?
The meeting point is St Giles’ Cathedral’s main entrance, where the guide dressed in costume will be waiting with an umbrella.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, this tour offers a blend of history, storytelling, and local secrets at a reasonable price point, making it a good choice for travelers who want a lively, authentic experience of Edinburgh’s rebellious past. Whether you’re a dedicated Outlander fan or just interested in Scottish history, you’ll likely find it a memorable part of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: