Outlander Film Locations Day Trip from Edinburgh

If you’re a fan of the hit series Outlander or just love Scottish scenery and historic castles, this day trip from Edinburgh might be just what you’re after. It promises to take you on an engaging voyage into the settings that brought the show’s beloved characters and storylines to life. While I haven’t done this exact tour myself, I’ve gathered plenty of details from reviews and descriptions to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

One of the things that stands out about this experience is the knowledgeable guides—they’re often praised for their stories and humor, making even the longest parts of the day feel lively. Another is the stunning scenery — from medieval castles to quaint villages, the landscapes serve as a perfect backdrop for Outlander fans. But, a possible caveat is that some locations may not be visited for as long as you’d hope, and there’s a little variability in how much time is spent at each spot.

This tour is ideal for Outlander enthusiasts eager to see the filming sites in person, as well as travelers interested in Scottish castles and scenery. It’s a full day, so you’ll want to be ready for a good amount of driving and walking. If you’re looking for a relaxed, informative experience with a touch of Scottish history and TV magic, this trip could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Reviews consistently highlight guides who are knowledgeable, friendly, and full of fun stories.
• Stunning Locations: From Doune Castle to Culross, you’ll see locations that look exactly like they did on screen.
• Good Value: For around $89, this tour offers a lot of scenery and history packed into a 9.5-hour day.
• Flexible Options: You can upgrade to include admission to certain castles and sites, adding to the experience.
• Small Group Feel: With a maximum of 16 travelers, the tour offers a more personal vibe.
• Timing and Pacing: Most reviews say the stops are well-paced, but some mention short visit times at certain sites.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour is pretty straightforward — it includes air-conditioned transport and a friendly English-speaking guide who shares stories and insights. You’ll want to bring your own food and drinks, as meals are not included, and plan to pay separately at sites if tickets aren’t included (like Midhope, Doune, and Blackness Castle). The pick-up is from a central Edinburgh location, making it easy to join if you’re staying nearby.

A Look at the Itinerary

Midhope Castle – Lallybroch

The first stop is Midhope Castle, famously known as Lallybroch in Outlander. It’s a favorite among fans because it’s where Jamie Fraser lives. The visit is brief — about 30 minutes — and admission isn’t included unless you buy tickets separately. Despite the limited time, many travelers are excited just to see the exteriors up close. Keep in mind, the castle is closed from December to early March, and in that case, Linlithgow Palace takes its place.

Review insight: Some people would love more time here, but it’s a quick look at an iconic location. For fans, it’s a photo op and a moment of real connection to the series.

Doune Castle

Next up is Doune Castle, which serves as Castle Leoch in the series. It’s one of Scotland’s best-preserved medieval sites and offers a more immersive experience. You’ll have roughly an hour to explore, which gives you time to wander around, soak in the medieval architecture, and perhaps imagine the scenes from the show.

Review insight: Many found Doune Castle to be a highlight — a genuine piece of Scottish history that doubles as a TV filming site. Some mention that the entry fee isn’t included, so budget accordingly.

Culross Village

Moving into the historic area of Fife, the tour stops at Culross, a beautifully preserved 17th-century town. Known as Cranesmuir in Outlander, it’s where Claire was accused of witchcraft. The village is charming, made up of cobblestone streets and traditional buildings.

Time here is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving you time to walk around, take photos, and appreciate the historical architecture. Some reviews note that this is one of the most complete examples of a Scottish burgh and a favorite for fans wanting to see the real-world inspiration behind many scenes.

Review insight: While some found the time sufficient, a few wished for a longer visit to explore more shops or grab a bite, as eating options are limited within the time frame.

Falkland Village

After lunch (which you’ll need to organize yourself), you head to Falkland, used to depict Inverness in the series. With over 28 listed buildings, it’s a well-preserved example of a 1940s Scottish town.

Time allocated is typically about 45 minutes, enough to walk around and snap a few pictures. It offers a good sense of the period and scenery that made Outlander’s Inverness scenes so believable.

Review insight: Travelers appreciate the visual authenticity but sometimes wish the visit was longer to fully soak in the atmosphere or explore local shops.

Blackness Castle

The final stop is Blackness Castle, which represents Fort William on the show. It’s a 15th-century fortress with impressive walls and views over the Firth of Forth.

Time here is about 55 minutes. It’s a great way to round out the day with some medieval grandeur and scenic views. Entry costs are not included unless you purchase tickets separately.

Review insight: Many say it’s a fitting end to the tour, with a chance to explore the castle’s ramparts and imagine the series’ action scenes.

How the Day Unfolds

The tour starts early, with check-in at around 8:45 am. It’s a full day, with most visits lasting about an hour or so. The guide’s storytelling skills are often praised, making the journey both fun and educational. Most travelers find the pacing just right, though a few mention that certain locations are a bit rushed.

The transportation — an air-conditioned coach — is comfortable, and small group sizes (up to 16 people) help keep things intimate. The tour ends back at the meeting point in Edinburgh around late afternoon or early evening, depending on traffic and weather.

What Reviewers Are Saying

The overwhelming majority of reviews give this tour a 4.9 or 5-star rating, citing guides like Laurie, Heidi, and Cara for their friendliness and knowledge. Many mention how the tour feels personalized despite being part of a group, thanks to the small size.

Favorites include the scenery, the castles, and the storytelling. One traveler said, “This was an excellent tour. Matt or your guide was outstanding with information and jokes,” showing how a good guide can elevate the experience. Others appreciated the chance to see the show’s filming locations in person, recounting feelings of “deja vu” and “pinch me moments.”

A few reviews point out areas for improvement, like short visit times at certain sites or not enough emphasis on Outlander-specific stories. Others mention minor logistical issues, such as location changes or the need to purchase castle tickets separately.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re a die-hard Outlander fan or someone intrigued by Scotland’s castles and scenery, this trip offers an engaging way to spend a day outside Edinburgh. The guide’s storytelling and the scenic stops make it more than just a sightseeing tour — it’s an experience that connects you with the show’s world and Scottish heritage.

However, if you’re looking for a leisurely, in-depth exploration of every site or want a flexible schedule, this might be a bit rushed. Also, keep in mind that some sites aren’t included unless you buy tickets separately, so budget for that. For those who value a small-group vibe with expert insights and plenty of photo ops, this tour hits the right notes.

All in all, it offers solid value for the price and tends to leave fans and history buffs satisfied. Just remember to arrive early, be prepared for a full day, and bring your camera!

FAQ

Is food included in the tour? No, meals are not included, so you’ll need to bring your own or buy at stops like Culross or Falkland.

Can I visit the castles inside? Entry to castles like Doune and Blackness Castle is not included unless purchased separately.

How long is the total tour? About 9.5 hours, including all stops and travel time.

What is the group size? The maximum is 16 travelers, keeping things intimate and manageable.

Is the tour suitable for children? Children under 5 are not recommended, and anyone under 17 must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I wear? Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advised, as some sites involve outdoor exploration.

Are there bathroom facilities along the route? Yes, stops are timed to include restroom breaks, but facilities may vary at each location.

Can I upgrade to include site admissions? Yes, optional upgrades are available for certain castles and sites.

What happens if a site is closed? The tour will substitute with alternative locations, such as Linlithgow Palace.

How do I find the meeting point? The tour departs from Highland Explorer Tours, 60 High St, Edinburgh.

I hope this gives you a thorough understanding of what to expect from the Outlander Film Locations Day Trip. Whether you’re a series superfan or just love Scottish castles and scenery, it’s a fun, well-rated way to explore beyond Edinburgh’s city limits.