Edinburgh: “Outlander” Filming Locations Guided Tour

If you’re a fan of the hit series Outlander or just someone interested in Scottish history and picturesque landscapes, this guided tour from Edinburgh offers a chance to walk in the footsteps of Jamie, Claire, and the Highland clans. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve gathered plenty of details to give you a clear picture of what to expect — and honestly, it looks like a day packed with history, gorgeous scenery, and TV magic.

What immediately appeals to me about this tour is how it combines famous filming locations with the chance to see some of Scotland’s most iconic castles and towns. Plus, it’s a small-group experience, which usually means more personal attention and a less rushed feel. The other thing I really appreciate is how the itinerary balances sightseeing with manageable travel times, so you’re not crammed into a bus all day.

Of course, no trip is perfect. One potential downside is that Midhope Castle (Lallybroch) may be closed during certain times of the year, which could mean a substitution to Linlithgow Palace. And, if you’re not a HUGE Outlander fan, some stops might feel a bit like a deep dive into TV lore instead of Scottish culture. Still, if you love the series or enjoy castles and scenic villages, this tour is likely to hit the spot.

All in all, this adventure seems ideal for fans eager to see the series’ locations firsthand, history enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a taste of Scotland’s charming towns and castles without the hassle of driving. It’s a full day that looks well-curated for curious travelers who want both the scenery and stories.

Key Points

• Famous Filming Locations: Visit Midhope (Lallybroch), Doune Castle, Culross, Falkland, Blackness Castle, and the Forth Bridges.
• Balanced Itinerary: Mixes sightseeing, photo stops, and free time for exploration.
• Expert Guides & Audio Guides: Enjoy storytelling from knowledgeable guides, with language options.
• Comfortable Transportation: Travel in a small-group coach, making for an intimate experience.
• Cost & Value: Priced at $86, which seems reasonable for a full, guided day out that covers several major sites.
• Suitable for Outlander Fans & History Lovers: Enthusiasts will love the TV connections; others will enjoy Scottish castles and scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Outlander Series in Real Life

This tour is designed to give you a broader sense of the Outlander universe, but it’s also a good way to experience some of Scotland’s most historic castles and charming villages. We’re talking about visiting filming locations that have become part of Scottish tourism lore, mixed with stops that reveal the country’s medieval past and scenic beauty.

Starting Point & Transportation

The tour begins in Edinburgh, which is convenient for many travelers. You’ll meet about 15 minutes early at Haggis Adventures, so plan for some extra time to find the meeting spot. The coach ride itself lasts about 45 minutes between stops, which is enough time to settle in and get a feel for the landscape as your guide starts weaving stories.

Most reviews highlight the comfort of the transportation and the friendly, knowledgeable guides. People often comment on how smooth and enjoyable the ride is, with guides sharing fascinating facts about Scottish history and the series’ filming secrets. The inclusion of downloadable audio guides in several languages (German, French, Italian, Chinese, Portuguese) is a nice touch, catering to international visitors.

First Stop: Lallybroch (Midhope Castle)

The highlight for many is the visit to Midhope Castle, also known as Lallybroch. It’s the fictional home of Jamie Fraser, and fans love the chance to snap photos at this iconic site. However, some reviews note that there could be more time here for photos, as 30 minutes might feel a little rushed for those wanting to soak in the atmosphere or take plenty of pictures. It’s important to note that Midhope is seasonal and closed from December to end of March, in which case the tour replaces this with Linlithgow Palace.

Doune Castle: Castle Leoch & More

Next, you’ll visit Doune Castle, a real medieval fortress with a storied history. It’s also starred in other productions like Game of Thrones and Monty Python & the Holy Grail, adding to its appeal. The hour spent here allows plenty of time for photos and exploring the grounds. Visitors often mention how picturesque and evocative Doune is, with enough time to appreciate its architecture and imagine the battles and kings who once roamed there.

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Falkland Village: Inverness in the 1940s

Then, it’s off to Falkland, a charming town that doubles as 1940s Inverness in the series. Here, you might even catch a glimpse of Jamie’s ghost wandering the square — a fun detail for fans. The free time allows for wandering, shopping for souvenirs, or just soaking in the nostalgic vibe.

Culross: Cranesmuir & Witchcraft

The village of Culross is a real gem. Its colorful buildings and cobbled streets starred as Cranesmuir, where Claire and Geillis nearly faced the stake. It’s a vivid, storybook setting, and the hour of free exploration is enough to admire the architecture and maybe grab a few photos. The reviews often mention how well-preserved and atmospheric Culross feels, making it a highlight of the day.

Blackness Castle: Fort William & TV Villainy

The tour’s final major stop is Blackness Castle, which served as Fort William in the series. The castle’s imposing walls and sea views give it a cinematic quality. With around 55 minutes here, you get a good chance to walk around, take in the views, and feel a bit like a character in a period drama. Several reviewers rave about the stunning scenery and the sense of history Blackness Castle offers.

Forth Bridges & Scenic Return

On the way back to Edinburgh, the coach stops for photos of the Forth Bridges, an engineering marvel and iconic Scottish sight. It’s a perfect spot to reflect on the day and enjoy some final views before heading back to the city.

What’s the Value Like?

At $86 per person, this tour offers a packed day of visiting multiple major sites, with the convenience of transportation and a guide providing context. For Outlander fans, it’s a chance to see the series’ locations in real life — a thrill worth considering if you’ve binge-watched or plan to do so afterward. The small-group format often results in friendly interactions, and guides are praised for their storytelling skills, making the journey informative and engaging.

That said, some reviews suggest that ticket prices purchased online can be slightly higher than if you buy on-site, which is worth noting if budget is a concern. Also, the inclusion of entry fees to castles is not covered, so you’ll need to budget extra if you want to go inside the castles or explore more thoroughly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is particularly ideal for dedicated Outlander fans eager to connect the series with real-life locations. It’s also suitable for anyone interested in Scottish castles, scenic villages, and the country’s countryside. The stops are designed to appeal both visually and historically, making this a well-rounded day out.

It’s less suited for younger children, as the focus is on historical sites and TV lore, and some walking may be involved. If you’re a solo traveler, you’ll likely find the small-group format friendly and easy to connect with others. For couples or groups, it’s a fun way to share the experience and take plenty of photos.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for a day that combines TV magic, historic castles, and Scottish scenery, this Outlander filming locations tour from Edinburgh is a solid pick. The guided approach, with knowledgeable storytellers, ensures you learn some history while enjoying the stunning landscapes and charming towns. The stops are carefully chosen to include major series sites and beautiful spots that highlight Scotland’s character.

While the schedule is tight and some sites might have limited photo time, the overall experience offers great value for fans and history lovers alike. It’s a chance to step outside Edinburgh and see a side of Scotland that’s both cinematic and real, with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and stories to share.

If your trip is centered around Scotland’s TV lore or you simply want an easy, well-organized way to see key castles and villages without the hassle of driving yourself, this tour will serve you well. Just remember to check the seasonal closures if you’re planning a winter visit — and set your camera to capture every magical moment.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly marketed for children, the tour involves some walking around castles and villages. It’s mainly aimed at outlander fans and history enthusiasts, so children under 18 are not recommended, but older teens with an interest in castles or TV series may enjoy it.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals are not included in the price. You might want to bring snacks or plan to have lunch during the free time at Culross or Falkland.

Do I need to pay for entry to the castles?
Entry to Midhope, Blackness Castle, and Doune Castle is not included in the tour price. You can buy tickets separately if you want to explore the interiors.

What languages are audio guides available in?
Audio guides are available in German, French, Italian, Chinese, and Portuguese, which can enhance your experience if you speak any of these languages.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts about 9 hours, starting in the late morning and returning in the early evening, depending on traffic and weather.

Is the tour flexible if I want to spend more time at certain spots?
The schedule is fairly fixed with specific time allocations at each site. If you want more time, it’s best to discuss this with the guide during your visit, but most stops are designed to give a good overview rather than an in-depth exploration.

In short, this Outlander tour offers a well-balanced look at Scottish castles, villages, and TV locations, wrapped in a friendly, guided experience. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just love castles and scenic towns, it’s a day worth considering for your Edinburgh itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: