Half Day Tour to Lallybroch and Hopetoun House

If you’re a fan of the Outlander series or just love Scottish history and grand castles, this half-day tour from Edinburgh offers a compact yet charming peek into some of Scotland’s most iconic film and historic sites. While it’s not a full-blown exploration of every corner of these locations, it’s a great way to get a taste of the series’ scenery without committing a whole day.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how smoothly it runs — it’s especially handy if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful experience. The fact that it includes tickets to both Midhope Castle and Hopetoun House and offers a professional driver/guide makes it feel well-organized and straightforward. Plus, the private nature of the tour means your group gets personalized attention, which many travelers find adds to the enjoyment.

On the flip side, since admission to the castles isn’t included, you’ll need to budget for that separately, and some may find the 4-hour duration a bit rushed if they want to soak in every detail. But overall, it’s a solid option for those eager to see the locations that bring Outlander to life, especially if you’re a big fan of the series or Scottish history and architecture.

This tour is ideal for Outlander enthusiasts who want a quick, immersive peek at the filming locations, as well as travelers who prefer a more relaxed, private experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Ideal for Outlander fans seeking a quick trip to filming locations
• Private tour offers personalized attention and flexibility
• Includes tickets to Midhope Castle and Hopetoun House, saving hassle
• Shorter duration makes it perfect for tight schedules
• Tour price is per group, offering good value for up to four people
• Last-minute bookings are welcome, with only 24 hours in advance needed

A Closer Look at the Outlander Experience

This half-day tour balances a well-curated itinerary with the convenience of private transport, making it a good choice for those who want a taste of Outlander’s world without spending an entire day on the road. It’s particularly suited for travelers who are already familiar with the series and want to see the locations that appear on screen.

Starting Point and Ease of Access

The tour begins at the InterContinental Edinburgh the George, conveniently located at 19-21 George St. This central spot is easy to reach by public transportation, and the tour ends right back at the same meeting point. The ease of pickup and drop-off is a small but meaningful touch, especially if you’re already exploring Edinburgh’s city center.

What You’ll See: The Stops

Midhope Castle (Lallybroch)

Your first stop is Midhope Castle, which serves as Lallybroch in the Outlander series. It’s a striking, rustic structure that instantly transports fans into Jamie Fraser’s world. Be aware that admission tickets aren’t included—so if you want to go inside, you’ll need to purchase those separately. Still, even from outside, it’s a special moment.

The castle’s rugged charm perfectly captures the feel of the Fraser family home, with its stone walls and woodland setting. We loved the way it felt like stepping into a different time, even if just for a little while.

Hopetoun House

Next, your journey takes you to Hopetoun House, a grand country estate with centuries of history. This location is more than just a pretty backdrop; it has played a significant role in the series, with scenes filmed in its rear courtyards, front façade, and around the stables.

The house’s architecture and sprawling grounds make it a photographer’s dream. You can imagine the scenes set here, from the Duke of Sandringham’s residence to the bustling street scenes of Paris and Helwater. Similar to Midhope, tickets are not included, but it’s well worth exploring if time permits.

The Experience: What to Expect

Your guide, who’s typically knowledgeable and accommodating, will take you around and provide background on each location. According to reviews, guides often receive praise for their friendliness and helpfulness—making the experience more personal and engaging.

Since the tour lasts about four hours, you’ll have enough time to appreciate each spot without feeling rushed. The air-conditioned sedan keeps transportation comfortable, which is a plus, especially on warmer days.

Authenticity and Value

One of the best aspects is the cost-effectiveness. Booking for up to four people at just over $380 makes this a reasonably priced experience, especially considering it’s private and includes tickets to two major sites. The fact that last-minute bookings are accepted with just 24 hours’ notice adds to the flexibility.

A previous traveler, Lisa_E, highlighted the drive and guide as a highlight, mentioning how the driver was “nice and accommodating” and that the trip was perfect for fans with limited time. This kind of personalized service makes a big difference.

Considerations for Travelers

While it’s a worthwhile experience, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Admission costs are not included, so budget for those if you wish to go inside the castles.
• The duration is about 4 hours, which means you’ll only see the locations briefly, not in-depth exploration.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but if you’re expecting an in-depth historical tour or multiple locations, this might feel limited.
• It’s a private tour, so you won’t be sharing the experience with strangers, which is great for personalized attention but also means fewer opportunities for socializing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a dedicated Outlander fan wanting to see the series’ key filming sites without dedicating an entire day, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s perfect for those who appreciate history and architecture, and who want a relaxed, guided experience.

Travelers short on time or seeking a more intimate, flexible outing will find this especially appealing. It’s also a good choice for anyone who prefers private tours over larger group excursions, ensuring more personalized interaction.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely, if you’re seeking a brief but memorable Outlander-themed outing. The professional guide, private setting, and included tickets make it a solid value, especially for fans who want a quick fix of the series’ iconic locations. The stops at Midhope Castle and Hopetoun House let you see both the rustic and grand sides of Scotland’s filmic landscape.

While it’s not a comprehensive tour of every filming spot or historic site, it’s practical and well-organized. For those wanting an easy, enjoyable, and memorable way to connect with Outlander’s scenery, this tour delivers.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 4 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity that covers two main locations.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes an air-conditioned sedan and pick-up from a central Edinburgh location.

Are tickets to Midhope Castle and Hopetoun House included?
Yes, the tour includes entrance tickets to both sites, but not admission fees if you want to go inside.

Can I book last minute?
Yes, last-minute bookings are welcome, with reservations possible up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s private, so it’s flexible if you’re traveling with family—though the sites are mainly outdoor and exterior viewing.

What if I want to explore the sites more deeply?
You’ll need to purchase additional tickets and possibly extend your visit beyond this tour’s duration.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the InterContinental Edinburgh the George, located at 19-21 George St.

What’s the price?
The total cost is $384.56 per group (up to 4 people), which is a fair deal for private transport, guide service, and entrance tickets.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Reviews indicate guides are friendly and accommodating, adding value to the experience with their insights.

If you’re craving a quick, personalized Outlander fix and want to see some of Scotland’s most photogenic locations, this tour could be just right. It offers a relaxed pace, good value, and the chance to step into scenes from a beloved series — all without a full-day commitment.