Edinburgh: Outlander Series and Jacobites Walking Tour

If you’ve ever watched Outlander or are just a fan of Scottish history, this Edinburgh walking tour promises a blend of TV magic and real historical tales. While I haven’t taken this tour myself, reviews and details suggest it’s a great way to get a feel for the city’s past—and its mythical side—without spending a whole day on it.

What stands out? First, the knowledgeable guides who bring Scotland’s stories to life with passion and insight. Second, the stunning locations along the Royal Mile and around Holyrood Palace, packed with great photo ops and atmosphere. A possible downside? The tour lasts just 1.5 hours, so if you’re craving a deep dive or want to see everything, you might find it a bit rushed. This tour is ideal for those curious about Outlander, Scotland’s Jacobite history, or simply wanting an engaging city walk with a bit of TV flair.

Key Points

• Brief but informative: Perfect for a quick insight into Edinburgh’s TV filming spots and history.
• Well-rated guides: Visitors praise their knowledge and storytelling.
• Location-rich: Walk through historic sites and film locations, feeling immersed in the show’s universe.
• Affordable price point: At $22, it offers good value for a guided experience.
• Weather-ready: Rain or shine, it takes place outdoors, so dress accordingly.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, making it open to most travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why You Might Love This Tour

This tour is a wonderful introduction to Edinburgh’s Old Town and its stories, especially if you’re a Outlander fan or a history buff. The route along the Royal Mile is packed with iconic sights, and your guide will share tales about the Jacobites, Scotland’s magical folklore, and the legends behind the standing stones and mythical creatures like the selkies. For those who appreciate storytelling that combines history and legend, this tour hits the mark.

The reviews reveal that guides like David, Jen, and Jule are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, making the experience both educational and entertaining. One visitor appreciated how the guide showed filming locations, “some places where they filmed scenes in Edinburgh,” adding a layer of TV magic to the walk. Others noted how the stories about Scottish Gaelic expressions and Celtic mythology helped deepen their connection to the culture.

A Walk Through Scotland’s Past and Fiction

Starting outside Advocates Close, right opposite St. Giles Cathedral, the tour kicks off in a lively, historic part of the city. From there, your guide will take you along the Royal Mile, where cobblestones underfoot and historic buildings surround you. You’ll hear stories about the Jacobite uprisings, the noble figures involved, and how Scotland’s past still echoes in the streets today.

A highlight for many is Bakehouse Close, a tiny alley off the main road, which features prominently in Outlander. It’s where Jamie and Claire are said to have reunited after twenty years—an emotionally charged scene for fans. Standing there, you can almost imagine the drama unfolding in this very spot.

Your guide will also point out Holyrood Palace, the Royal Residence where Jamie and Claire might have stayed as guests of Bonnie Prince Charlie. This adds a regal and historic dimension, giving visitors a feel for the grandeur and tumult of 18th-century Scotland.

What Makes the Experience Special

The tour offers a good mix of history, culture, and TV magic. Learning some Gaelic phrases and hearing about Celtic legends, like the magic of standing stones or the myth of the selkies, makes the walk feel almost mystical. The stories aren’t just dry facts—they’re woven into the city’s fabric, making the experience memorable.

The tour’s short duration is a plus for those with limited time or who want a light overview. It’s also priced reasonably at $22 per person, considering that it includes a guided walk with a live guide. While it doesn’t include entrance tickets to attractions, that keeps the cost low, and you can choose to explore further on your own afterward.

The reviews suggest that guides like Jen and Jule make the experience relaxed and filled with interesting facts—more than just a sightseeing walk. One participant mentioned that they “learned a lot” and appreciated the mix of “history and TV fun,” adding to their overall enjoyment.

Practical Details & Tips

The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, but check the schedule ahead of time as starting times vary. Meeting in front of Advocates Close is easy to find—look for the black umbrella with the yellow logo—and the walk ends back at the starting point, making it convenient for planning your day.

Bringing comfortable shoes is advisable since you’ll be walking on cobblestones and uneven surfaces. Being weather-prepared is also key, as the tour takes place outdoors rain or shine. And yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, so most visitors should be able to participate without issue.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re a Outlander fan eager to visit filming locations and learn more about the history that inspired the series, this tour is a perfect fit. It’s also suitable for travelers interested in Scottish folklore—from Celtic magic to legends of mystical creatures.

History buffs who want a quick but rich overview of 18th-century Scotland will find it worthwhile, especially because of the guides’ storytelling skills. For those on a tight schedule or looking for a reasonably priced, engaging experience that blends culture, history, and TV, this tour checks all the boxes.

However, if you’re after a comprehensive, in-depth historical tour or plan to visit many attractions, this might be better as a first step rather than your only historical experience in Edinburgh.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it’s designed for adults interested in history and TV locations. Kids who enjoy stories and walking should be fine, but check with the provider if you have very young children.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 1.5 hours, which is a manageable length for most travelers, especially if you want a quick overview.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Are there any entrance fees included?
No, entrance to attractions isn’t included, so plan to buy additional tickets if you want to visit places like Holyrood Palace.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended since it’s an outdoor walk, rain or shine.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, which is great for travelers with mobility considerations.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead guarantees your spot, and you can choose from available times.

Where exactly do we meet?
At Advocates Close, 361 High Street, opposite St. Giles Cathedral. Look for the black umbrella with the yellow logo.

Does the tour end at the same place?
Yes, it ends back at the start point, making it easy to continue exploring afterward.

Final Thoughts

This Edinburgh Outlander and Jacobites walking tour offers a lively, accessible way to explore the city’s history, folklore, and TV magic—all in a short and affordable format. The mix of storytelling, stunning locations, and insights from guides like Jen or Jule make it worth considering, especially if you’re a fan of Outlander or Scottish history.

While it’s not a deep dive into every corner of Edinburgh’s past, it strikes a good balance for those who want to get a taste of the city’s legends and filming sites without spending a whole day doing so. Plus, at $22, it’s a budget-friendly way to add some local flavor and storytelling to your trip.

If you enjoy engaging guides, beautiful city streets, and stories that blend history and myth, this tour could be a highlight of your Edinburgh visit. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for weather changes—you’ll want to soak in the sights and stories without being bogged down by discomfort. Happy exploring!

You can check availability for your dates here: