From Edinburgh: Outlander Adventure Day Tour with Entry

Exploring Scotland’s Outlander Spots: An Honest Review of the Edinburgh Day Tour

If you’re a fan of the Outlander series or just someone interested in Scottish history, this Outlander Adventure Day Tour from Edinburgh promises a full day of scenic sights and storytelling. From the stunning ruins of castles to the charming streets of a 16th-century village, it’s a curated experience that blends film locations with real Scottish heritage.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines beautiful scenery with fascinating history, making each stop more than just a photo op. Plus, with small group sizes and knowledgeable guides, it feels personable and relaxed. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that the tour covers a lot of ground fairly quickly—so it might feel a little rushed if you’re someone who loves lingering at each site.

This tour works best for Outlander fans eager to see locations in person and those who want a comprehensive day out discovering Scotland’s iconic castles and villages without the hassle of planning. It’s a solid choice if you’re after a mix of scenery, history, and pop culture.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering major Outlander filming sites and historical landmarks
• Small group sizes ensure a more intimate and engaging experience
• Knowledgeable guides bring the locations to life with stories and historical context
• Well-paced stops with enough time for photos, exploring, or just soaking in the views
• All-in price point offers good value, considering entrance fees are included for some castles
• Scenic countryside and picturesque villages add a genuine Scottish flavor to your day

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: What You’ll See and Do

This full-day tour is designed to follow the trail of the Outlander series, starting from Edinburgh’s central bus station early in the morning. The journey takes you across some of Scotland’s most memorable locations, blending the magic of the show with authentic history. It’s a mix that appeals both to fans wanting to relive their favorite scenes and travelers curious about Scotland’s cultural backdrop.

Starting Point and Logistics

You meet your guide at the Scottish Citylink Travel Centre, inside Edinburgh Bus Station, near St Andrew Square. The tour is run by Rabbie’s Small Group Tours, which keeps groups limited to a maximum of 8 to 16 people for a more personal experience. The day lasts around 8 hours, with various starting times available—so check the schedule to fit it into your plans.

Transport and Comfort

Travelling in a Mercedes mini-coach, the ride is generally comfortable and smooth. Reviews highlight that the bus is well-maintained and climate-controlled, making for a pleasant journey even in unpredictable weather. The smaller group size means fewer crowds and more flexibility at each stop, which is a big plus for many travelers.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Let’s go through each stop to see what makes it special and what you might expect.

More Great Tours Nearby

Midhope Castle (Lallybroch)

Your adventure kicks off at Midhope Castle, instantly recognizable to Outlander fans as Lallybroch. While the ruins are not open for exploration, you get to sit on the iconic steps and imagine Jamie or Claire walking through the courtyard. Many reviews mention the thrill of standing in the exact spot where the show’s main characters live and breathe.

As one traveler put it, “we sat on the steps of Lallybroch, feeling like we were part of Outlander for a moment,” which really captures the magic of this location. A note to keep in mind: the interior is recreated in studios and isn’t open to the public, so don’t expect to go inside.

Blackness Castle

Next is Blackness Castle, often called the “ship that never sailed” because of its shape. It’s a striking fortress overlooking the water and was used as the fictional headquarters of Jack Randall. You’ll have time to walk along the ramparts, take photos, and soak in the views.

According to reviews, exploring the castle’s ramparts is one of the highlights, and many say it’s a perfect place to imagine the tense scenes from the series. Some reviewers note that Blackness Castle can be cold and windy—so dress accordingly.

Linlithgow Palace (Wentworth Prison)

After a scenic drive, you arrive at Linlithgow Palace, famous for its ruins and as the location of Wentworth Prison. This is also where you’ll enjoy lunch—either grabbing local specialties or having a picnic by the loch. The palace’s atmospheric ruins offer plenty of photo opportunities, and it’s fun to imagine Mary Queen of Scots’ birthplace here.

Reviewers mention the relaxed pace and the beautiful setting, which gives a great chance to pause and take in your surroundings. The site offers a good balance of history and scenery, making it a favorite stop for many.

Stirling Castle and Wallace Monument (Drive-By)

While you won’t get off the bus here, the driver guides you past Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument, providing context and background on their significance. These landmarks add depth to your understanding of Scotland’s history—a nice touch for history buffs.

Doune Castle (Castle Leoch)

From here, your journey takes you to Doune Castle, known in Outlander as Castle Leoch. It’s a beautifully preserved medieval fortress, and you’ll get to explore its courtyard and walls. The castle’s real story dates back to the 14th century, and it has even been used in Monty Python and the Holy Grail, adding a layer of fun.

A popular quote from reviews: “The audio guide was excellent, describing how the castle was used as a filming location and its real history.” Many visitors enjoy just wandering around and imagining the scenes that took place here.

Culross (Cranesmuir)

The final filming location is the village of Culross, a remarkably intact 16th-century town overlooking the sea. It’s used as Cranesmuir in the series, and you’ll have time to walk the ancient streets, visit Claire’s herb garden, or explore the palace ruins. The preserved architecture and quaint atmosphere provide a real sense of stepping back in time.

Reviewers rave about Culross—many say it’s their favorite spot for its authenticity and charm. It’s a place where you can almost hear the footsteps of characters from the show, making it a perfect end to the day.

Return to Edinburgh

After a full day of exploring, the bus heads back to Edinburgh, arriving in the late afternoon. You’ll likely be tired but full of stories and photos to relive the experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The entrance fees to Doune Castle and Blackness Castle are included in the tour price, which makes the cost more worthwhile. The transportation, guided commentary, and small group setting are also part of the package.

However, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring a packed lunch or purchase something during the stop at Linlithgow Palace. Hotel pickups and drop-offs are also not part of this tour, meaning you’ll need to get to the meeting point yourself.

Pricing and Value

At $122 per person, this tour offers decent value considering the number of sites visited and the inclusion of two castle entries. The reviews consistently mention the guide’s storytelling skills and the well-organized itinerary as major highlights, making the price feel justified for many.

The smaller group size and transport quality enhance the experience, preventing it from feeling like a herd tour. Plus, the flexibility and relaxed pace mean you won’t feel rushed through each location.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for Outlander fans eager to see the filming locations in person—there’s a tangible thrill in standing where Claire and Jamie once stood. It also suits travelers who appreciate Scottish history, castles, and scenic countryside. If you’re looking for a mix of pop culture and authentic sites without the hassle of planning each stop, this tour hits the right notes.

It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues, given the amount of walking and uneven terrain at castles and villages. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children under 5, check with the provider, as the tour isn’t tailored specifically for families.

Final Thoughts

This Outlander-themed day trip from Edinburgh offers a balanced blend of stunning scenery, historical intrigue, and show-related magic. With a small-group approach and engaging guides, it feels personalized and relaxed—perfect if you want to enjoy Scotland’s castles and villages without the stress of self-guided touring.

Many reviews highlight the expert storytelling and friendly atmosphere, making it clear that this isn’t just a sightseeing bus but a curated experience. The stops like Lallybroch, Doune Castle, and Culross provide authentic touches that bring the series—and Scotland itself—to life.

If you’re a fan of Outlander or simply love exploring castles and historic towns, this tour is a practical and enjoyable way to spend a day in the Scottish lowlands. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes, a windbreaker, and your camera—you’re bound to leave with plenty of new memories to cherish.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour begins at a designated meeting point at the Edinburgh Bus Station. You’ll need to arrange your own transport to and from there.

What is the maximum group size?
Groups are limited to 8-16 people, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, your ticket covers entrance to Doune Castle and Blackness Castle. Other sites like Culross and Linlithgow Palace are free to explore.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 8 hours, with multiple start times available. Check the schedule to find a suitable slot.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5, mainly due to the walking involved and the nature of the sites.

Do I need to bring my own lunch?
Yes, food and drinks are not included, so pack a lunch or plan to buy something at Linlithgow Palace.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and a windbreaker are advised, as weather can change quickly and some sites have uneven terrain.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the price listed is all-inclusive for entrance fees to key castles, transportation, and guide services.

Is the guide knowledgeable about Outlander and Scottish history?
Absolutely. Many reviews praise guides like Mac, Ewen, and Graham for their storytelling, humor, and depth of knowledge.

This tour is a fantastic pick for anyone wanting an immersive day exploring the places that bring Outlander to life, combined with some of Scotland’s most beautiful scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: