Inverness Outlander Tour

If you’re a fan of Outlander or just curious about the landscapes that set the scene for this popular series, the Inverness Outlander Tour promises a personalized day exploring key filming locations and historic sites of the Scottish Highlands. This private guided experience, run by Highland Discovery Tours, is designed to bring the story and scenery to life in a manageable, engaging way.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines the Outlander theme with genuine historical interest — it’s not just about the series but also about understanding the land and stories behind it. The second standout? The guides receive rave reviews for their knowledge, making the entire experience feel authentic and well-informed.

However, one potential consideration is that some attractions, like Fort George or the visitor centers, require separate admission tickets if you want to go inside. The tour primarily offers an overview and photo opportunities, which is perfect if you’re after a scenic, story-rich day rather than a full museum visit.

This experience suits Outlander fans eager to see the locations where the series was shot, history buffs interested in the Scottish Highlands, or travelers who want a guided day out with a mix of scenery, storytelling, and whisky tasting. It’s particularly good if you prefer a private, tailored approach, avoiding large group tours.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The private tour means your group gets undivided attention and flexibility.
• History & Fiction Combined: Stops like Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns tie real history to the Outlander storyline.
• Expert Guides: Reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge, making the day both fun and educational.
• Flexible & Convenient: Pickup from your Inverness accommodation simplifies logistics.
• Taste of Scotland: The whisky tasting at Singleton of Glen Ord adds a nice local touch.
• Price & Duration: At around $273 per person for about 7 hours, it offers a balanced mix of sights and stories.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Fort George: A Highland Stronghold

Your day kicks off at Fort George, the largest and most intact 18th-century fort in Britain. This site is a must for history lovers and fans of Outlander since it connects to the series’ early Scottish Highlands scenes. You’ll learn about the Black Watch, the Queen’s own Highlanders, and get a sense of the military might in the region.

While the tour’s focus is on the outside and history, keep in mind that admission isn’t included if you want to explore the fort interior. The guides do a good job of explaining what you see and its significance, so even a quick look is worthwhile.

Clava Cairns: Touching Ancient Stones

Next, the tour visits Clava Cairns, a Bronze Age cemetery where Claire touches a stone, triggering her time-travel story in the series. Here, we loved how the site’s mystical atmosphere helps you connect with the series’ fictional elements while soaking in real history.

It’s a brief stop—about 20 minutes—and the admission is free. It’s a peaceful, evocative place, and you’ll probably want to take a few photos of the well-preserved stone circles and burial sites.

Culloden Battlefield: The Highland Clash

The heart of the tour for many, Culloden Battlefield is where the Jacobite rising met its tragic end. Walking the grounds, you’ll follow battle lines and see memorial stones for the clans, including the Fraser stone—an authentic detail that fans will appreciate.

Here, it’s all about the atmosphere and story, with free entry to the battlefield itself. For those interested, a visitor center with exhibits is available but not included in the tour. Many reviews mention the guides’ storytelling skills, making it a memorable stop—one reviewer even noted that they found their ancestors here.

Urquhart Castle: Ruins & Loch Ness

Midway through, the tour takes you to Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness. The ruins are impressive, and you’ll get ample time—up to an hour—to wander and take in the views. Many visitors love snapping photos of the castle’s silhouette against the loch, especially if they’re hoping for a glimpse of the Loch Ness Monster.

Admission is included, so you can explore inside the castle ruins. The setting alone makes it worthwhile, and the castle’s story ties into the Highland narratives you’re exploring.

Beauly Priory: A Quiet Farewell

As the tour wraps up, you’ll stop at Beauly Priory, a peaceful spot to reflect on the day. It’s a brief visit—about 20 minutes—but it provides a quiet, scenic conclusion to the series of sites related to the first season of Outlander.

The Singleton Distillery: A Whisky Tasting

Finally, what better way to end the day than with a dram of whisky at Singleton of Glen Ord Distillery? This is more than just a tasting; it’s a chance to unwind, enjoy some local flavors, and reflect on your Highland adventure. The tour notes that sampling is included, but the admission isn’t.

The Experience: What You’ll Love and What to Watch

From the moment you’re picked up, the private nature of the tour becomes apparent. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, turning what could be a straightforward sightseeing day into a storytelling experience. Many reviews mention how well the guide answered questions, enhancing the understanding of both Outlander and Highland history.

The sites themselves are thoughtfully chosen. The battlefield and Clava Cairns are atmospheric, giving you a tangible feel for the land where history unfolded—both real and fictional. Urquhart Castle offers dramatic views and ruins that spark the imagination, especially for those who love the Loch Ness lore.

The whisky tasting at the distillery is a highlight for many, adding a flavorful, authentic touch to the day. It’s a relaxing way to end a full day of exploring.

Practical Considerations: Balancing Cost and Value

The tour costs just under $273 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. But when you factor in the private guide, the transport, and the entry to Urquhart Castle, it’s actually quite reasonable for a personalized, full-day experience. Plus, the convenience of door-to-door pickup and the tailored approach make it a good value, especially for Outlander fans eager to see the locations without the hassle of organizing it themselves.

One thing to keep in mind is that some stops are quick (like Beauly Priory and Clava Cairns), so if you’re after in-depth exploration inside each site, you might need to plan separate visits. Still, for a trip combining storytelling, history, and scenery, the pace feels just right.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private Outlander-themed day is perfect for fans of the series, especially those who want to see film locations with a knowledgeable guide. It’s also great for history enthusiasts keen to understand the Highland landscape and past. The tour’s flexible, intimate setup makes it suitable for couples, small groups, or travelers seeking a curated experience.

If you’re after a relaxed, storytelling approach with scenic stops, this tour hits the mark. However, if you prefer a more extensive inside visit to sites like Fort George or the visitor center, be prepared for additional costs or a longer visit on your own.

Final Thoughts

The Inverness Outlander Tour offers a well-balanced taste of Highland history, scenery, and TV magic. The private format and knowledgeable guides set it apart from larger bus tours, creating an immersive experience that feels tailored to your interests. The stops are thoughtfully chosen and well-paced, providing plenty of opportunity for photos, reflection, and storytelling.

While it’s not a deep dive into every site’s interior, it’s perfect if you want an engaging, narrative-driven day with a local expert by your side. Whether you’re a dedicated Outlander fan or simply looking to explore the Highlands with a bit of TV-inspired flair, this tour delivers on charm and substance.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, but it’s best to check if your kids can handle walking around sites like the battlefield and castle ruins. The focus is on history and scenery rather than child-specific activities.

Does the tour include inside visits to Fort George or other sites?
No, admission to Fort George and other attractions like Beauly Priory or Clava Cairns are not included. The tour mainly offers exterior views and storytelling.

What’s the best way to prepare for the day?
Wear comfortable shoes and bring layers, as weather in the Highlands can change quickly. If you want photos or to explore interiors, consider bringing additional money for tickets.

How long is the drive between sites?
The tour is designed to balance sightseeing and travel time efficiently, with stops around 20-60 minutes and a total duration of about 7 hours.

Is food or lunch included?
No, the tour does not include meals. You might want to bring snacks or plan to grab something during the day.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, there’s some flexibility. Discuss your interests with the guide beforehand.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, and refunds are processed accordingly.

How early should I book?
The tour is typically booked about 32 days in advance, so it’s wise to reserve early if you have specific dates in mind.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on this tour.

If you’re looking for a thoughtfully curated, TV-inspired day in the Scottish Highlands, this Outlander tour is definitely worth considering. It blends storytelling, history, and stunning scenery into a memorable experience that many reviewers have found both enjoyable and enriching.