From Edinburgh: Outlander, Palaces, and Jacobites Day Trip

If you’re a fan of the TV series Outlander or just someone interested in Scottish history and stunning scenery, this Outlander, Palaces, and Jacobites Day Trip from Edinburgh could be right up your alley. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, based on the detailed info and glowing reviews, it seems like a solid way to soak up some iconic filming locations and royal landmarks without the hassle of planning everything yourself.

What really catches our eye are the well-chosen stops—from the mystical standing stones to the historic castles—and the knowledgeable guides who bring these stories to life. Plus, at only $74 per person for a full day, the value is hard to beat, especially considering the variety of sites you get to see.

However, a word of caution: the tour doesn’t include entry fees for the attractions, which can add up. Also, the tour involves a fair bit of driving and walking, so if mobility is an issue or you prefer a more relaxed pace, it’s worth considering that. This trip suits those who enjoy history, filming locations, and a good mix of scenic views with educational commentary—perfect for Outlander fans, history buffs, and curious travelers alike.

Key Points

• Excellent value for the price considering the number of locations visited and the guided experience.
• Knowledgeable guides who share stories and historical context, making the sites come alive.
• Variety of stops including castles, standing stones, and royal residences—offering a well-rounded glimpse of Scottish history and scenery.
• Entry fees are not included, so budget accordingly if you want to explore each site fully.
• Comfortable, air-conditioned coach transport ensures a smooth ride throughout the day.
• Flexible options depending on the season—additional stops like Midhope Castle in summer or Forth Bridges in winter.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour kicks off early in the morning from Castle Terrace in Edinburgh, setting out across the Firth of Forth towards some of Scotland’s most iconic locations. The first stop is the Tuilyies Standing Stones—a perfect spot for Outlander fans who recognize these ancient markers seen in the series. Here, you might find yourself trying to imagine what it was like to travel through time or across the landscape in those early days.

Next up, you’ll visit Culross, a charming 17th-century village that’s practically a living set from Outlander. If you’re a fan of the show, you’ll likely remember Claire’s herbal garden and the Mercat Cross in Cranesmuir. The village’s preserved streets and historic buildings give you a real sense of what life was like in old Scotland. Many reviews mention how picturesque and authentic this spot feels, and it’s a favorite for photographers.

From Culross, the route takes you to Doune Castle—an optional extra that served as Castle Leoch in Outlander. This medieval fortress is also recognizable from Game of Thrones and Monty Python, which adds to its appeal. It’s a great example of Scottish castle architecture and offers lots of opportunities for exploring its nooks and crannies. Keep in mind, entry fees aren’t included here, so if you want to go inside, budget for that.

Passing by Stirling Castle, perched atop volcanic rock, gives you a chance to appreciate one of Scotland’s most historic royal residences. While you won’t enter this time, the view from the bus is impressive, and many appreciate how the castle’s history ties into the broader story of Scotland’s monarchy.

The next stop is Linlithgow Palace, a stunning ruin overlooking a peaceful loch. This site was originally a royal retreat and features in Outlander as Wentworth Prison—so it’s a must-see for series fans. Here, you’ll have some time for lunch and to explore the grounds, which are ideal for stretching your legs and soaking up the scenery.

Your journey then takes you south to Blackness Castle, affectionately called ‘the ship that never sailed’ because of its triangular shape jutting into the Forth. This fortress doubles as Fort William in Outlander, the headquarters of Black Jack Randall. The views of the Forth and Edinburgh skyline from here are quite striking.

In the summer months, the tour continues to Midhope Castle, the exterior of Jamie Fraser’s Lallybroch, giving Outlander fans a chance to snap photos of one of the show’s most beloved filming locations. If Midhope is closed—common during filming breaks or in winter—the itinerary switches to the Forth Bridges, an engineering marvel crossing the Firth of Forth, offering a different kind of scenic spectacle.

Finally, the tour wraps up back in Edinburgh, leaving you free to explore more of the city or relax after a day filled with history, scenery, and storytelling.

The Real Value of the Tour

One of the biggest strengths is how well-organized and comprehensive the experience feels for the price. For $74, you get roughly 9 hours of guided transport, with expert commentary that makes each site come alive—whether through historical anecdotes or Outlander behind-the-scenes tidbits. Reviews highlight guides like Santa Paul and Jillian, who are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make the trip fun and engaging.

Many reviewers also appreciate the comfort of the coach, especially on longer drives. The bus has charging points, which makes it easy to keep your devices ready for photos or notes during the stops. The small group size, often under 20 people, ensures a more intimate experience compared to large tour buses, which can sometimes feel impersonal.

But remember, the entry fees are not included. You should budget approximately a few pounds for each castle or site you want to explore inside. Some reviews mention that additional costs are reasonable, but it’s good to keep in mind so you don’t get caught off guard.

What We Loved About the Experience

What stands out most in reviews is the knowledgeable and personable guides. Many mention how guides like Marty, Santa Paul, and Jillian make the trip memorable with their stories, jokes, and insights. People often say that these guides help make the sites’ history feel relevant and fun, not just a list of facts.

The variety of locations is another highlight. Seeing the real Outlander filming spots like Culross and Midhope Castle, alongside historic castles such as Doune and Stirling, offers a great balance of TV fandom and Scottish history. The scenery is also frequently praised—rolling hills, ancient ruins, and the iconic Forth Bridges create a beautiful backdrop throughout the day.

Many reviewers mention how the experience exceeds expectations, especially considering the price point. The combination of picturesque villages, historic castles, and the chance to walk through real filming locations creates a sense of being transported into the show’s world—something Outlander fans particularly cherish.

The Downsides

While the tour is generally well-loved, some note that the additional costs for entry fees can add up, especially if you want to explore each stop fully. Also, the itinerary can be quite full, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace with extra time at each site, this might feel a bit rushed.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or children under 4, mainly due to the walking involved and the nature of the sites. If you’re traveling with mobility challenges, check with the provider about accessibility options.

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Is This Tour Right for You?

If you love Outlander and want to see the filming locations firsthand, this tour hits many of the major spots and provides engaging commentary. History enthusiasts will also appreciate the castles, palace ruins, and the bridges’ engineering marvel.

It’s a good choice if you’re comfortable with a full-day guided trip, enjoy scenic drives, and don’t mind paying a bit extra for site entries. Families with older children or teenagers who are into the show or history might find this an enjoyable way to spend a day exploring Scotland’s rich backdrop.

FAQs

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot ahead of time, especially during peak tourist season, to secure availability and preferred departure times.

What’s the starting point for the tour?
The tour departs from Castle Terrace in Edinburgh, outside the NCP Car Park. From December 2024, the meeting point will move to NCP Castle Terrace, EH1 2EW.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, with starting times varying by day—be sure to check availability for your preferred date.

Are meals included?
No, the price doesn’t include food or drinks. There will be a chance to grab lunch at Linlithgow, so consider bringing snacks or planning ahead.

Is it suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, children over 4 who are comfortable with long days and walking should be fine. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as you’ll be walking and exploring outdoor sites in variable weather.

Can I visit inside the castles?
Entry fees for attractions are not included, so if you want to explore inside the castles or sites, you’ll need to budget for tickets.

Wrapping It Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

In the end, this Outlander, Palaces, and Jacobites Day Trip offers a nicely balanced day filled with Scottish scenery, history, and TV magic. It’s particularly suited for Outlander fans eager to see the real locations, but equally appealing for anyone interested in Scottish castles, royal sites, or engineering marvels like the Forth Bridges.

The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge add a lot to the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing run. While the extra costs for sites can add up, many find the overall price still reasonable given the variety of locations and the convenience of transport and commentary.

If you’re looking for an engaging, well-organized way to cover a lot of ground in Scotland with a friendly group and a knowledgeable guide, this tour could be just what you need for a memorable day out of Edinburgh.

You can check availability for your dates here: