Outlander Day Tour from Glasgow

If you’re a fan of the Outlander series or just love exploring Scotland’s storied landscapes, a day trip like this from Glasgow might be just what you’re after. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and information from past travelers suggest it offers a fascinating, well-organized way to see some of Scotland’s most iconic filming locations and historical sites.

What really catches the eye is the chance to visit places like Blackness Castle, Falkland, and Doune Castle—each of which has its own story to tell. Plus, the tour’s small group size and experienced guide promise a more personal, in-depth experience than some larger bus tours. But, as with any guided trip, there are a few points to consider.

This tour is best suited for those who want a full day of sightseeing, love history and film sets, and appreciate comfortable transportation without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. If you’re traveling with specific needs like heavy mobility aids, it’s worth noting that some locations may not be fully accessible.

Key Points

• Private, intimate experience with a small group of up to 8 travelers.
• Visit iconic Outlander filming sites like Blackness Castle, Midhope Castle, and Culross.
• Learn from an experienced guide with over 10 years of storytelling.
• Includes ample time for photos and free exploration at each stop.
• Scenic drives through the Scottish countryside with commentary on history and filming secrets.
• Cost reflects a full-day, premium experience with personalized touches.

What to Expect from the Outlander Day Tour

This is a carefully curated day that combines Scotland’s cinematic magic with its historical charm. The tour starts at 9:00 am, with pickup from a central Glasgow meeting point, and wraps up back at the same spot around 7:00 pm, giving you roughly 10 hours of exploring, storytelling, and scenic views.

The Journey Begins: Blackness Castle

Your first stop is Blackness Castle, famously known as Fort William from the series. This fortress, often called “the ship that never sailed,” is a striking sight on the Firth of Forth, with its stone hull-like silhouette. Here, you’ll enjoy a 30-minute guided tour, learning about its past, and then have another 30 minutes to wander around, snap photos, and soak in the atmosphere.

Visitors often comment on the fascinating insights the guide provides, adding depth to the impressive ruins. It’s a great way to start, with plenty of photo opportunities and a real sense of stepping into the series’ world.

Midhope Castle: Lallybroch

Next, your adventure takes you to Midhope Castle, the exterior of Jamie Fraser’s home, Lallybroch. This 16th-century tower exudes classic Scottish charm, with its weathered stone walls and peaceful surroundings. The time here is brief—about 30 minutes—but enough for some photos and to imagine the life of Jamie’s family.

Fans will particularly enjoy this stop, as it’s an instantly recognizable set that represents the heart of the series’ fictional world.

A Stroll Through Falkland

Then, it’s onto Falkland, a picturesque village representing Inverness in the show’s 1940s scenes. The village’s cobbled streets and historic buildings transport you back in time. You’ll have about 1 hour and 15 minutes to explore, enjoy a meal at a local café, or walk around Falkland Palace if it’s open. The guide will point out key filming locations like the Bruce Fountain and other Outlander spots, making sure you don’t miss the highlights.

Travelers often find Falkland to be a perfect blend of scenery and story, with some taking extra time to browse shops or relax in this charming setting.

Doune Castle: A Filming Powerhouse

After lunch, it’s time to visit Doune Castle, which has appeared in multiple series including Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Game of Thrones, and Outlander (as Castle Leoch). Here, you’ll have about 1 hour, starting with a short presentation from your guide about the castle’s history. Then, you’re free to explore using included audio guides at your own pace.

Note that Doune Castle features steep steps and narrow pathways, which may pose challenges for visitors with mobility aids. Still, the views from outside and the courtyard make it well worth the visit, especially for series fans.

Culross: The Perfect Ending

The final stop is Culross, a beautifully preserved village with cobbled streets, mustard-colored houses, and a historic charm. Within 30 minutes, you can explore Culross Palace, the Mercat Cross, and the Hanging Garden behind the palace. This spot represents the fictional town of Cranesmuir in Outlander and offers stunning views over the River Forth.

Many travelers appreciate how Culross encapsulates the Scottish feel, making it a fitting finale to the day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour cost is around $171.72 per person, which reflects the private, guided nature of the experience. Included are the driver-guide, pickup and drop-off at the meeting point, and bottled water.

However, note that admission fees for sites are not included, so if you plan to visit places like Falkland Palace, you’ll need extra cash. Food and drinks outside bottled water are also not covered, so packing a snack or lunch might be a good idea if you want to save time.

Price & Value

While the price might seem steep for some, it’s important to consider the convenience, comfort, and insights you gain. The small group size means more personalized attention and fewer crowds, especially at popular locations. Plus, the guide’s storytelling helps bring the sites alive, making the visit more memorable.

A Word on the Experience

One review highlighted a frustrating moment when the pickup was delayed, with no response from the tour provider. While such issues are uncommon, it’s worth being prepared for potential hiccups. Overall, most travelers praise the scenic views, the knowledgeable guide, and the well-chosen stops.

Who should consider this tour?

This experience is ideal for Outlander fans eager to see filming locations firsthand, history lovers, and those wanting a guided exploration of the Scottish countryside. It’s well-suited for travelers comfortable with a full day of sightseeing, including walking and some uneven terrain.

If you’re a solo traveler or part of a small group looking for a personalized, detailed tour that combines scenery with storytelling, this could be perfect. But if you’re on a tight budget and prefer independent travel, you might find cheaper options, though perhaps less comprehensive.

The Sum Up

The Outlander Day Tour from Glasgow offers a well-rounded, visually stunning adventure for those interested in the series’ filming sites and Scottish scenery. The stops at castles, villages, and scenic spots, combined with expert storytelling, make it a fulfilling experience. While it’s not without minor hiccups—such as the potential accessibility issues at Doune Castle—the overall quality and intimacy of the tour stand out.

If you’re looking for a full day immersed in Scotland’s cinematic and historical highlights, and don’t mind the price tag, this tour delivers on its promise. It’s especially suited for series fans and history buffs who enjoy a relaxed pace, ample photo opportunities, and a knowledgeable guide sharing secrets of the land and the filming process.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Keep in mind the walking involved and potential restrictions at certain sites.

What is the starting point?
The tour begins at Costa Coffee, 50 George Square, Glasgow G2 1EH, with pickup at 9:00 am.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll travel in a comfortable car with your private group, and pickup/drop-off from the designated meeting point is included.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 10 hours, including all stops, sightseeing, and travel time.

What’s not included in the price?
Admission fees to sites, food, and drinks are not included. You might want to bring extra cash for entrance fees and meals.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Are there any accessibility concerns?
Doune Castle may not be suitable for visitors using mobility aids due to steep steps and narrow pathways, so plan accordingly.

This Outlander tour is a solid choice if you want a compact, scenic, and story-rich day out that brings Scotland’s filming magic to life.