Outlander Tour

Discover the Outlander Tour: An In-Depth Look

If you’re a fan of the Outlander series or just curious about Scotland’s stunning landscapes and historic sites, this Outlander Tour in Glasgow might catch your eye. We haven’t done it ourselves, but from reviews and the detailed itinerary, it looks like a solid way to see some of the most famous filming locations and historic landmarks in the Scottish Highlands—all in a private, personalized setting.

What really stands out are the customizable stops, which mean you can tailor the day to your interests, and the private nature of the tour, ensuring a more relaxed, tailored experience without other travelers tagging along. Plus, the added amenities like WiFi and charging points make the day more comfortable, especially if you want to stay connected or snap photos without worry.

A potential downside? The price is on the higher side at around $630 for a group up to seven people, especially considering that admission fees aren’t included in the cost. If you’re budget-conscious or prefer tours with all fees covered upfront, this might be worth considering.

This tour seems best suited for Outlander enthusiasts or travelers who enjoy private, flexible excursions and are willing to invest a bit more for a personal touch and comfort. For those who want a curated day with a knowledgeable guide, it could be a fantastic choice.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience tailored to your interests
• Includes several iconic filming locations like Doune Castle and Culross Palace
• Comfort features such as WiFi, charging points, and bottled water
• Not all entrance fees are included, so budget for tickets
• Guides are praised for their knowledge and personable approach
• Duration is about 8 hours, making it a full, satisfying day out

What You Can Expect from the Outlander Tour

This private Scottish Highlands adventure aims to bring the magic of Outlander to life, blending cinematic history with real Scottish landmarks. It’s designed to appeal especially to fans of the series, but the stops and stories also cater well to anyone interested in Scottish history, architecture, and scenery.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Falkland Palace & Garden

Your day kicks off at Falkland Palace, a site with a regal touch and a few appearances in the series. It’s still technically Crown property but has been in the Crichton Stuart family’s hands since 1887. The village and palace have appeared in Season 1, used to portray post-war Inverness and the standing stones scene where Claire travels back in time. It’s a historically significant spot with a lovely garden—though note that admission is not included, so budget accordingly.

What we like: It sets a romantic, historic tone for the day, and the connection to Outlander makes it more meaningful for fans.

Culross Palace

Next, you’ll visit Culross Palace, regarded as one of the most picturesque villages in Scotland. It’s a top pick for Outlander devotees because it’s a prime filming location, representing the Royal Burgh of the 17th and 18th centuries. Even if you’re not a fan, the charm of the village is undeniable.

Worth noting: Admission isn’t included, but you’ll get about 30 minutes to wander and soak in the scene’s authenticity.

Blackness Castle

Then, it’s on to Blackness Castle, an impressive 1400s fortress on the site of an even older fort. Historically, it was a port and prison, but in Outlander, it’s Fort William, where Jamie was whipped and where his father died watching his son suffer.

Travel tip: The castle is well-preserved with a commanding view, making it a highlight for history buffs and series fans alike.

Doune Castle

This one’s a favorite for many. Doune Castle is a dramatic and well-preserved fortress from the late 1300s. It’s been featured in Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Game of Thrones, and of course, Outlander. Its 100-foot-high Gatehouse and great hall are particularly impressive.

Insight: The guide might share fun facts—like the pronunciation “te” in Doune—adding personality to your visit.

Linlithgow Palace

Next, you’ll visit the ruins of Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. It’s also where some scenes of Wentworth Prison were shot—though, interestingly, some exterior shots used Bamburgh Castle for CGI.

Good to know: The palace’s history and its connection to Scottish royalty add depth to your sightseeing.

Preston Mill & Phantassie Doocot

The final stops include the charming Preston Mill, where Jamie once hid underwater from Redcoats, and the Doocot, a traditional pigeon house. These spots give you a glimpse of rural Scottish life and scenery, with the mill also serving as a filming backdrop for court scenes in Season 1.

Note: Admission isn’t included here either, but the picturesque setting makes it worth a quick stop.

The Practical Side: Transportation, Comfort, and Flexibility

This tour is conducted in a luxury, climate-controlled vehicle with WiFi and charging stations, making the long day more enjoyable. The private aspect means no worries about noisy strangers or rushing—you can focus on the sights and stories.

The 8-hour duration is typical for full-day tours, giving enough time at each location without feeling hurried. Plus, the option for pick-up and drop-off at your hotel or central Glasgow makes logistics easier, especially after a day of exploring.

Cost and Value

While the price point of $630.52 might seem steep, it’s important to remember that it covers private transportation, a personalized experience, and the expert guidance. Since admission fees are extra, you’ll need to factor those in, but the value lies in the convenience and tailored experience.

A reviewer pointed out that for the price, you may feel it’s not entirely worth it if you’re expecting all included—but for those who love a private, flexible tour, it’s a good investment.

Who’s It Best For?

If you’re a dedicated Outlander fan, craving a private tour that hits all the key filming locations and offers a personal touch, this is a hit. It’s also great if you prefer customized experiences and value comfort and flexibility.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer all-inclusive tickets and shorter tours, you might want to compare alternatives. It’s also worth noting that this tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, but older children interested in castles and stories may enjoy it.

A Well-Balanced Experience for Curious Travelers

In the end, this Outlander tour offers a blend of scenic beauty, Scottish history, and cinematic magic. The stops are carefully chosen to tell a story—whether that’s about the series’ filming locations or the behind-the-scenes history of the castles and villages. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, which can make or break a sightseeing day.

While the price might seem hefty, you’re paying for a private, flexible experience that can be tailored to your interests, and that’s a rare luxury in travel. The scenery, storytelling, and historic sites make this tour appealing for history buffs, Outlander fans, or anyone wanting a personalized day out in the Highlands.

If you’re looking for a more exclusive, intimate way to explore these iconic sites, and don’t mind paying a premium for comfort and customization, this tour could be just right.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the provided information doesn’t specify age limits, the stops involve castles and historic sites that older children or teens interested in history and scenery would likely enjoy. It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, but it could suit families with kids who are curious about castles and stories.

Are admission fees included?
No, the tour price does not cover the entrance tickets to the sites. You should plan on paying separately for Falkland Palace, Culross Palace, Blackness Castle, Doune Castle, Linlithgow Palace, and Preston Mill.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the tour is described as customizable to suit your interests and preferences, making it flexible for different tastes.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Is WiFi available during the trip?
Yes, WiFi and charging points are provided on board, so you can stay connected and keep your devices powered throughout the day.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 7 George Square in Glasgow and ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

Final Thoughts

This Outlander Tour is a good pick if you want a private, flexible day exploring Scottish castles and villages with a cinematic twist. It’s particularly appealing to series fans who want to visit filming locations with a knowledgeable guide, all while enjoying the comfort of private transportation and amenities.

The tour’s highlights, like Doune Castle and Culross Palace, are genuinely fascinating and visually stunning. The ability to tailor the experience adds a layer of value for travelers looking for something more personal than a standard bus excursion. Just keep in mind the extra costs for entrance tickets and factor that into your overall budget.

For anyone who appreciates a personalized adventure with insider stories and loves Scotland’s scenery and history, this tour offers a memorable way to spend a day in the Highlands. It’s not the cheapest option, but for a private journey that blends history, scenery, and pop culture, it offers a lot of what many travelers crave: comfort, exclusivity, and stories to tell.

Happy travels, and I hope this helps you decide whether this Outlander Tour fits your Scottish adventure plans.