Game of Thrones and Outlander Small Group Tour from Edinburgh

If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones or Outlander, visiting Scotland without seeing these iconic filming locations can feel like missing out on part of the story. This private tour from Edinburgh promises a personalized journey through some of the most recognizable castles and sites that brought these shows to life. While the cost might seem steep at over $560 for a small group, the quality of the experience—highlighted by knowledgeable guides and exclusive access—can make it worth considering.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the focus on a personal, intimate experience. With a private guide and transportation just for your party, it feels more like visiting friends than being part of a giant tour group. Plus, the chance to learn about Scottish history intertwined with the show’s locations adds an extra layer of interest. The only thing to keep in mind is that entrance tickets aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget for those separately—something that many travelers find manageable.

This tour is best suited for dedicated fans eager to see the locations in person, or travelers who value a relaxed, in-depth experience over rushing from site to site. If you’re after a detailed look at these iconic castles with a knowledgeable host, this could be a highlight of your trip to Edinburgh.

Key Points

• Private tour experience means no rushing and personalized attention.
• Exclusive access to locations like Doune Castle, Lallybroch, and Wentworth Prison.
• Hassle-free pickup and drop-off from your Edinburgh accommodation.
• Learn about Scottish history alongside the TV show filming sites.
• Admission costs not included, so plan for extra expenses.
• A good fit for fans of Outlander and Game of Thrones, or anyone interested in Scottish castles and scenery.

What This Tour Offers: A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Exploring Midhope Castle: Lallybroch

Our adventure begins at Midhope Castle, which serves as the fictional Lallybroch from Outlander. It’s probably one of the most recognizable locations for fans. The castle isn’t included in the admission fee, so plan to spend around 30 minutes here. The setting feels like stepping into the show, and it’s a rare chance to stand where Jamie Fraser’s family once lived. It’s worth noting that this stop is more about soaking in the scenery and snapping photos than exploring exhaustive interiors, as the castle isn’t open to the public.

Blackness Castle: Fort William in Outlander

Next, we visit Blackness Castle, which doubled as Fort William in Outlander. It’s a larger, more imposing fortress perched by the water, and you’ll spend roughly an hour here. Again, admission isn’t included, but the castle itself is very photogenic, especially if you love rugged coastal ruins. From the outside, you’ll get a real sense of military history, which ties nicely into the show’s storyline.

Linlithgow Palace: Wentworth Prison & Mary Queen of Scots’ birthplace

The third stop is Linlithgow Palace, a site packed with history beyond the TV show. It’s portrayed as Wentworth Prison in Outlander and is also famously the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. A full hour here gives you time to walk around the ruins and imagine the stories that unfolded in this historic site. It’s a highlight for those interested in Scottish royal history, adding depth to the TV-focused journey.

Doune Castle: Winterfell and Monty Python’s Holy Grail

The final stop is Doune Castle, which many recognize as Winterfell from Game of Thrones. Here, the tour’s highlight is the audio tour narrated by actor Sam Heughan from Outlander and Terry Jones from Monty Python. This multi-purpose castle also served as Castle Leoch in Outlander, making it a true fan favorite. You’ll spend about an hour exploring the grounds, enjoying stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and hearing fun facts that make the castle come alive.

The Experience: What’s It Like on the Ground?

The tour’s private transport means you won’t feel rushed, and your guide will likely share insightful tidbits about Scottish history and the filming locations. The reviews praise guides like David for their knowledgeable, friendly approach, making the experience more engaging. As one reviewer put it, “David was wonderful,” and the private setting made the trip feel like a personal adventure rather than a hurried bus tour.

Timing-wise, the entire journey runs from roughly 10 a.m. for about five to six hours. Since entrance tickets aren’t included, you’ll want to carry a bit extra to cover those, especially since some sites are more elaborate than others.

What We Like

The personalized nature of the tour is a big plus. It’s just your group, which means you can ask questions freely and take your time at each site. The knowledgeable guide can enhance the visit with background stories, making the castles more than just photo ops. Plus, hassle-free pickup and drop-off from Edinburgh accommodations means no fuss with transportation.

The Downsides

The main consideration is the additional cost of entrance tickets, which can add up depending on how many sites you want to explore deeply. Also, at around half a day, it’s not a comprehensive Scottish castle tour but rather a focused experience tailored for TV fans and history buffs. If you’re looking for a broader exploration of Scotland, you might want to supplement this with other trips.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for dedicated fans of Outlander and Game of Thrones who want to see the locations firsthand, not just read about them. It’s also perfect if you prefer a more intimate, relaxed tour rather than crowded bus excursions. Given the physical nature of the stops—walking around castles and ruins—it’s suited for travelers with a moderate fitness level.

Even if you’re not a superfan, but love Scottish castles or want a unique sightseeing experience, this tour offers a fun, story-driven way to explore. Keep in mind that it’s a private experience, so it’s best for small groups, couples, or anyone wanting a personal touch.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re passionate about Game of Thrones and Outlander, this tour offers a way to see the magic locations in person and learn more about their history. The private setting means you won’t feel rushed, and the guide’s knowledge adds value beyond just clicking photos. While the cost is higher than some group tours, the personalized service, flexibility, and insider stories make it a compelling choice.

It’s not a full-day sightseeing extravaganza, but rather a carefully curated experience tailored for fans and history lovers. If you’re seeking a special, story-rich outing that connects you to the filming locations and Scottish castles, this tour is well worth considering. Just remember to budget for entrance fees and be ready for a moderate walk through some historically significant, sometimes rugged sites.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Are entrance tickets included in the tour price?
No, admission costs aren’t included. You should plan to buy tickets separately for each site you wish to visit.

What’s the meeting point and start time?
The tour starts at 10:00 a.m., with pickup arranged from your Edinburgh accommodation for convenience.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s exclusively for your group—up to four people—making it a very personal experience.

How long does the tour last?
Expect around 5 to 6 hours, which covers all four stops comfortably.

Is this suitable for families or kids?
The tour requires moderate physical activity, so travelers should have a moderate fitness level, but it’s suitable for most ages that can handle walking and exploring outdoors.

What’s the tour’s main appeal?
The chance to see iconic filming locations from Game of Thrones and Outlander and learn about Scottish history from your guide.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, it’s free to cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, making it flexible if plans change.

Is it worth the price?
For fans seeking a personalized experience that combines scenery, history, and TV landmarks, many find the cost justified by the quality of the guide and the exclusivity of the locations.

Who would enjoy this tour most?
Dedicated TV fans, history enthusiasts, and travelers who appreciate a relaxed, intimate, and story-rich sightseeing experience.

In the end, if you want a memorable, tailored exploration of Scotland’s TV filming sites with a knowledgeable guide, this tour from Edinburgh offers a balanced mix of history, scenery, and pop culture. Just prepare for some additional costs and good walking shoes—and you’ll have a trip to remember.