Outlander Day Tour

If you’re a fan of the Outlander series and planning a trip to Scotland, this tour offers a chance to walk in Jamie and Claire’s footsteps without the hassle of driving around on your own. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, based on reviews and the itinerary, it looks like a solid option for those eager to see the show’s iconic filming spots in a relaxed, guided setting.

What we love about this experience? First, it covers a good variety of key Outlander locations, so you get to see castles, towns, and landscapes that bring the series to life. Second, the guides seem knowledgeable and enthusiastic, making the stories behind each spot more engaging. On the flip side, a possible challenge is that some guests felt the narration could be more detailed or interactive, especially regarding the series’ filming trivia.

This tour is best suited for Outlander fans who want to combine sightseeing with some series-related fun. If you’re okay with a full-day trip with a group of up to 16 people, it’s a nice way to experience the scenery and the series’ filming locations without the stress of self-driving.

Key Points

• Ideal for Outlander fans wanting to see filming locations firsthand.
• Guided tour removes the hassle of navigating Scotland on your own.
• Visiting multiple castles and towns in one day offers great value for scenic and series-related sights.
• Authentic insights from guides add context and stories behind each location.
• Cost-effective considering the number of sites and the included treats like whisky and bottled water.
• Room for improvement in tour commentary, with some reviews suggesting more detailed storytelling would elevate the experience.

The Experience You Can Expect

The Outlander Day Tour is a solid way to tick off some of Scotland’s most picturesque and series-related sights in one day. Starting early from Greenock Ocean Terminal at 8:30am, you’ll spend roughly 8 hours exploring castles, towns, and scenic spots that played roles in the show. The tour is designed for those who want a comprehensive, convenient glimpse into Outlander’s filming universe, combined with a taste of Scottish countryside.

The Itinerary in Detail

Blackness Castle — your first stop, used as Fort William in the series. This medieval fortress is striking, with its rugged walls hugging the Firth of Forth. While admission isn’t included, you’ll appreciate the dramatic views and the chance to snap some photos of the castle’s imposing silhouette. One reviewer pointed out that the castle is a “less busy” site, making it perfect for photos and quick exploration without crowds.

Midhope Castle — the iconic Lallybroch. It’s smaller, but instantly recognizable for Outlander fans. The short 30-minute stop means you get a quick but memorable glance at the exterior, and it’s a perfect spot for those quintessential Outlander photos. Just note, no entry fee is required for the ruins — a bonus for budget-conscious travelers.

Falkland — the highlight for many. This charming town served as a filming location for Inverness and a key scene where Jamie’s ghost looks up from the fountain. You’ll spend about an hour and a half here, giving you ample time to stroll around, soak in the atmosphere, and perhaps visit Falkland Palace if you wish (though entrance isn’t included). Multiple reviews mention this as a favorite stop; one reviewer called it “a wonderful tea with scones” and a great chance to experience authentic Scottish town life.

Doune Castle — used as Castle Leoch, the seat of Clan Mackenzie. This site offers a more extensive exploration, with about 40 minutes to wander through its historic halls and courtyards. It’s a pretty well-preserved stone fortress that gives you a real sense of Scottish medieval life, even if some find the time here a bit tight.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package includes a “wee dram” of whisky — a nice touch for those who want to taste local Scotch. Bottled water is provided, keeping you refreshed during the day. However, lunch and entry fees to castles are not included, so budget accordingly. If you’re planning to visit Falkland Palace or other interior attractions, be prepared to pay extra.

The Group and Transportation

With a maximum of 16 travelers, this tour offers a semi-intimate experience, allowing for more personal interaction and easier group management. The transport is comfortable, and the tour company offers pickup from your Glasgow accommodation upon request, which adds convenience. The tour departs early for a full day out, so be ready for a busy schedule.

What the Reviews Say

Most feedback is positive, with many praising the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. For example, one reviewer noted, “Johnny our guide was very good at pointing out all the different scenes,” highlighting the value of having a guide familiar with the filming locations.

Several guests loved how this tour brought the series to life — touching the “time-traveling stone,” sitting in the square where Jamie’s ghost looked up, and visiting the castles that made the series so visually captivating. One reviewer summed it up: “This is an excellent tour,” especially for Outlander fans eager to connect with the series on a deeper level.

That said, not everyone felt fully engaged by the commentary. One guest felt the guide “hardly spoke about the locations, just drove us there,” indicating that the experience can vary depending on the guide’s style. The company is open to feedback and seems committed to improving this aspect.

Practical Considerations

• Price: At approximately $225 per person, this isn’t the cheapest day trip, but considering the multiple sites visited and included whisky, it offers decent value. It’s especially attractive for Outlander fans who want to see the locations without renting a car or organizing logistics themselves.

• Duration: About 8 hours, which is a full day but well-paced to see everything without feeling rushed. The stops are designed to maximize photo opportunities and sightseeing.

• Booking in Advance: With an average booking time of 114 days in advance, this tour is popular among dedicated Outlander fans, so plan ahead if you want to secure a spot.

• Weather and Cancellation: The tour is weather-dependent. Cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled, offering some peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for Outlander enthusiasts eager to connect the series with real Scottish locations. It suits travelers who enjoy guided trips, scenic castles, and small group experiences. If you’re looking for a comprehensive day with storytelling and photos, this fits the bill.

However, if you prefer more in-depth historical tours with detailed commentary, you might find some moments a little light on facts. Also, those who dislike hurried stops or don’t want to pay extra for castle entries might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For Outlander fans, this tour offers a chance to see the magic behind the series come alive, in a manageable, fun day. You’ll love the views, and guides seem genuinely enthusiastic, making the experience more engaging. The stops at castles and Falkland are scenic and nostalgic, especially if you’ve binge-watched the series.

The value hinges on your level of interest in Outlander and your expectations for the commentary. If you’re looking for a well-organized, picturesque trip with a touch of Scottish series history, this tour does a good job. Just be prepared for some shorter stops and additional costs if you want to explore interior castles or palaces.

All in all, it’s a solid choice for fans wanting to enjoy Outlander’s Scottish world, especially if they appreciate a guided, hassle-free trip.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour? Yes, pickup from your Glasgow location can be arranged upon request, making it easy to start your day.
How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 8 hours, from about 8:30 am to late afternoon or early evening.
Are castle entry fees included? No, admission to castles like Blackness, Midhope, or Doune is not included.
Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What’s included in the price? A whisky sample and bottled water are included; meals and castle entries are extra.
Is the tour suitable for children? The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind it involves walking around castles and towns.
How many people are in a group? The group size is limited to 16 travelers, making it fairly intimate.
Does the guide speak English? Yes, guides are fluent and knowledgeable about the locations and filming trivia.
What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera are recommended.
Is there a bathroom stop? The stops are designed to be efficient; you might find facilities at Falkland or nearby towns.

This Outlander Day Tour offers a chance to see some of Scotland’s most iconic sites through the lens of your favorite series, with enough flexibility and comfort to make it a memorable part of your trip. If you’re a series devotee or simply love Scottish castles and towns, it’s worth considering.