The Outlander 1 Day Experience

If you’re a fan of the Outlander series or just curious about Scotland’s stunning scenery and historic sites, this Outlander 1 Day Experience from Edinburgh might be just what you’re looking for. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, we’ve gathered plenty of insights from those who’ve been to help you decide if it’s the right fit.

What stands out most is how well-reviewed it is—an impressive 5.0 out of 5 from over 368 reviews, with 97% of travelers recommending it. That level of praise hints at a consistently enjoyable experience. We also appreciate the convenience of round-trip transportation from Edinburgh and the ability to visit iconic filming locations and castles in just one day.

Of course, no tour is perfect. Some travelers have pointed out that specific sites like Blackness Castle aren’t always included, and timing can be tight at certain stops. Still, if you’re a fan of Outlander and love exploring Scottish landscapes and castles, this tour offers a solid package. It’s especially suited for those who want a structured day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning multiple trips.

Key Points

• Well-loved by fans for visiting the series’ filming locations and Scottish landmarks.
• Guided by knowledgeable guides who share behind-the-scenes stories and historical facts.
• Convenient transportation included, making the day stress-free.
• Flexible options like optional extras at Doune Castle.
• Good value for money at around $89 per person, considering the sites visited.
• Time at each stop varies, so some may wish for longer at favorites like Lallybroch.

The Tour Details: What You Can Expect

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This tour is perfect for Outlander enthusiasts, history lovers, and anyone who wants to see a mix of Scottish castles, villages, and iconic filming spots without the burden of organizing multiple visits. It’s a full-day adventure, approximately 8 hours, with plenty of variety packed into a manageable schedule.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are a guided tour led by an experienced driver/guide, plus central Edinburgh drop-offs, which makes returning easy regardless of where you stay in the city. The price of $89.22 per person is quite reasonable for a day packed with visits and insights.

Not included are food, drinks, and entrance fees for sites, which means you should budget extra for meals and tickets. Bringing snacks and some cash for optional entrances (like Doune Castle, which is not included) is advisable.

Meeting Points and Duration

The tour starts at the Apex Waterloo Place Hotel and wraps up back there too, making logistics straightforward. The whole experience lasts about 8 hours, so come prepared for a day on your feet, with comfortable shoes and an appetite for Scottish scenery.

Itinerary Breakdown: Stops and Highlights

Falkland

Your day kicks off in Falkland, a charming town serving as the stand-in for Inverness and the honeymoon spot of Claire and Frank in the series. It’s a quick 15-minute stop, mainly for photos and soaking in the atmosphere. The good news? It’s free to visit and offers a glimpse into the series’ filming locations. Many reviews mention how short but sweet this stop is, leaving you wanting more time to explore.

Culross

Next is Culross, for about an hour, which is a major highlight. Many scenes from season 1 of Outlander were shot here, especially around the Mercat Cross, Geillis Duncan’s house, and the garden outside her home. Reviewers love this stop, noting it feels like stepping into the series and that it’s a great place for photos. The town is also steeped in Scottish history, making it a dual-purpose visit.

Doune Castle

The optional stop at Doune Castle offers a chance to see the Outlander sets and recognize the castle from numerous other productions, including Game of Thrones and Monty Python. It’s a medieval marvel—though note that an extra fee is required to enter. Some reviews mention the optional nature of this stop and the possibility of substitute castles like Blackness Castle, depending on the day.

Linlithgow Palace

This grand ruin is where Jamie was held prisoner in Outlander, and it’s a favorite among fans for its dramatic backdrop. The site also has a deep historical link, being the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. You’ll have about 1 hour 20 minutes here, plenty of time to explore and consider enjoying lunch in the area. Keep in mind, entrance fees aren’t included, so plan accordingly.

Lallybroch (Midhope Castle)

The tour concludes at Midhope Castle, the iconic Lallybroch home of Jamie Fraser. It’s one of the most photographed locations for Outlander fans. While you can’t go inside, the exterior offers a perfect photo opportunity. Many reviewers find this a moving highlight, especially for those who have read the books or binge-watched the series. The stop here is about 15 minutes, making it a quick but meaningful finale to the day.

Journey Back to Edinburgh

The final leg offers beautiful views over the Forth Bridges, a scenic way to end the day and reflect on the day’s adventures.

What People Are Saying

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the engaging storytelling—one said, “Ian was funny and an excellent driver,” and another called the guide “charismatic.” The value for money also earns high marks, with many mentioning how they appreciated the variety of sites covered and the ease of transportation.

However, some note issues, like the timing at stops being somewhat rushed—“Wish we had more time at some of the stops,” one reviewer said. Others were disappointed when specific sites like Blackness Castle weren’t included, despite descriptions indicating they might visit it. Such feedback highlights the importance of checking the itinerary details before booking.

Accessibility and Considerations

A report mentions that the tour involves walking on uneven surfaces and steep stairs, especially at Culross, which could be a concern for seniors or those with mobility issues. It’s a good idea to prepare accordingly or consider this when booking.

Is This Tour Worth Your Time?

Absolutely, if you’re a dedicated Outlander fan or someone who loves Scottish castles and landscapes. The tour offers a chance to see a variety of filming locations and historic sites in a single day, with the convenience of guided transportation. The reviews show that guides often enhance the experience with fun facts and local stories, making the trip more than just a sightseeing run.

The price, roughly $89, provides good value considering the stops and the included transportation. However, remember that entrance fees aren’t included, so budget for those separately. It’s also worth noting that some reviews mention the tour being somewhat rushed, so if you prefer to linger longer at favorite spots, you might want to consider extra time or a private tour.

Who Should Consider This?

This experience suits Outlander fans eager to connect more deeply with the series’ locations, history buffs, and travelers who want a structured, full-day Scottish excursion. Those with mobility considerations should check the walking requirements, especially at certain sites. It’s also a good pick for travelers who enjoy guided storytelling and don’t want to worry about navigating on their own.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind the walking involved and uneven surfaces, like steep stairs at Culross. It’s best for those able to handle a full day on their feet.

How long do I spend at each stop?
Stops vary from about 15 minutes at Falkland to over an hour at Culross and Linlithgow Palace. Lallybroch is a quick 15-minute photo op. The schedule is tight, so you’ll want to manage your expectations for lingering.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included. You might need to pay separately for sites like Doune Castle or Linlithgow Palace.

Can I book for a specific site like Blackness Castle?
The itinerary mentions that on some days, Doun Castle may be substituted for Blackness Castle, but Blackness Castle isn’t guaranteed and isn’t included in the standard stops.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, so plan accordingly.

Is the tour accessible for seniors or those with mobility issues?
Some reviews suggest challenging stairs and uneven surfaces, so consider this before booking, especially if mobility is a concern.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-organized, enjoyable day exploring Scotland’s most iconic Outlander locations and castles, this tour offers excellent value. The strong reviews about guides and scenery suggest you’ll come away with memorable stories and photos. It’s a practical way to experience a slice of Scottish history and the beloved series in one easy outing.

While it may not go to every site you hope for—like Blackness Castle on certain days—the flexibility and overall experience still make it a solid choice for fans and curious travelers alike. Just keep an eye on your timing and be prepared for a busy, scenic day filled with the kind of stories that bring the series to life.