Outlander Day Tour from Glasgow or Edinburgh

Discover Scotland’s Outlander Filming Locations on a Full-Day Tour from Glasgow or Edinburgh

If you’re a fan of the hit TV series Outlander or just love exploring Scotland’s stunning landscapes and historic castles, this full-day tour offers a fantastic way to combine both. We’ve come across this experience multiple times and found that it’s especially popular for its knowledgeable guides, well-chosen locations, and the chance to step into the world of Claire and Jamie.

What really catches our eye is how much the tour immerses you in the show’s backdrop while also offering a taste of real Scottish history and scenery. Plus, the mix of castles, charming villages, and filming sites makes for a well-rounded day.

One thing to consider, though, is that access to Midhope Castle, the famous Lallybroch, isn’t guaranteed on every trip, since it’s on a private estate. However, the tour makes up for it with other equally memorable stops. This experience suits Outlander fans, history lovers, or anyone looking for a scenic day out with a bit of storytelling thrown in.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Comprehensive Outlander experience with visits to multiple iconic filming locations.
• Knowledgeable guides who often share insightful stories and behind-the-scenes tidbits.
• Beautiful Scottish scenery along with castles and villages that add historical flavor.
• Flexible options for pickup from Glasgow or Edinburgh, making it convenient.
• Good value considering the number of sites visited and included admission fees.
• Small group size (max of 15) for a more intimate and personalized experience.

A Detailed Look at the Outlander Day Tour

This tour is designed to make you feel like a part of the Outlander world—so whether you’re a superfan or just someone who appreciates historic Scotland, you’ll find plenty to enjoy.

Starting Point: From Glasgow or Edinburgh

Depending on your choice when booking, you’ll be picked up either in Glasgow or just outside of Edinburgh. The convenience of choosing your pickup location is a plus, especially if you’re staying in either city. The tour lasts around 8 to 10 hours, so be prepared for a full day of exploring, scenery, and storytelling.

The Journey and Transport

The tour is conducted with a driver-guide, which means you can relax and enjoy the views without worrying about navigating. The vehicle accommodates up to 15 travelers, making it intimate enough for everyone to feel involved but small enough for a cozy group experience. Several reviews mention how the guides often go beyond just the film locations—they share anecdotes, historical facts, and sometimes even insights from their own experiences as extras in the show.

Stop 1: Blackness Castle – Fort William

Your adventure kicks off with a visit to Blackness Castle, which is used in Outlander as Fort William. The guide provides a brief history of the castle, plus a demonstration relating to the show. During your time here, you can explore the castle grounds at your own pace, soaking in the views of the Firth of Forth. Several reviewers praised the castle’s atmospheric setting and the guide’s storytelling, with one mentioning they felt like they had stepped right into the series.

The admission fee is included, so what you see is what you get—no hidden costs here. Expect about an hour here, which is enough to take some photos, explore the grounds, and listen to some entertaining commentary.

Stop 2: Midhope Castle – Lallybroch

Next, you’ll visit Midhope Castle, famous as Lallybroch in Outlander. This location is a highlight for fans, offering that incredible feeling of stepping into the show’s world. It’s situated on a private estate, which usually means access can be limited. Some tours have experienced restrictions, especially between December and April 2025, but generally, most visitors get a chance to walk around this iconic site.

Here, you’ll take a scenic “walk down” to the castle, with some reviews praising how well the guide helped capture the magic of the location. One reviewer said, “We basically had a one-on-one tour with our guide, who knew so much about Scotland’s history as well as the show’s details.” If access isn’t possible, the tour makes up for it with an alternative visit to Hopetoun House.

Stop 3: Falkland – Inverness

The charming village of Falkland is your next stop, renowned as Inverness in the series. It’s a delightful place for a quick stroll through the village square, with quaint shops and lovely scenery. Many travelers report enjoying the relaxed pace here, with the chance to grab a bite or explore the local shops.

Some may choose to visit Falkland Palace during this break, but the tour doesn’t include it. You might find this stop particularly enjoyable if you appreciate small-town charm and the chance to soak up Scottish village life.

Stop 4: Doune Castle – Castle Leoch

Then, it’s time to explore Doune Castle, which in Outlander serves as Castle Leoch, home to Clan MacKenzie. This spot is rich with history and is often praised as a must-see for fans. Your guide will give a brief historical overview and share interesting behind-the-scenes stories related to the series.

Once inside, you’ll have around 45 minutes to explore, and many reviewers mention how the included audio guides enhance the experience—adding depth to what you see. The castle’s ancient stone walls and scenic surroundings make it a favorite for photography and just soaking in the atmosphere.

Stop 5: Culross – Cranesmuir

Finally, you’ll visit Culross, a village that appears in three seasons of Outlander. It’s a 17th-century gem, with well-preserved streets that transport you back in time. The central Mercat Cross is a must-see, and the village’s overall charm is undeniable.

This last stop is more about wandering and soaking in the scenery, with many reviewers mentioning how well-preserved the streets are and how they appreciate strolling through the historic atmosphere. It’s a fitting end to the tour, leaving you with plenty of photos and stories.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package generally includes driver/guide, bottled water, and all admission fees for the locations. This makes it straightforward, with no hidden expenses. However, food and drinks aren’t included, so bringing snacks or planning for lunch is recommended. Many travelers appreciate that the guide often shares tips on where to eat locally, especially in Falkland.

The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

From enthusiastic fans to history buffs, reviews consistently highlight the guide’s knowledge and friendliness. Several mention that guides like Johnny, Struan, or Barry go above and beyond to share stories, answer questions, and make the trip memorable.

One reviewer pointed out that they felt like VIPs, thanks to a small-group setting and a guide who knew the show inside and out. Others appreciated the flexible pacing and the chance to explore each site at their leisure. The scenery, combined with the castles and villages, earns frequent praise for making the day visually stunning.

However, not all reviews are perfect. A few guests faced issues, such as a last-minute cancellation due to mechanical problems, which left them waiting without notice. This underscores the importance of confirming your booking and being aware of potential changes.

Price and Value

At around $175 per person, this tour offers a lot, especially considering multiple locations, included admissions, and a guided experience. Many reviews emphasize how the tour’s value lies in the combination of stunning sites, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to relive Outlander moments while enjoying Scotland’s scenery.

In terms of what you get, you’re paying for a full day of sightseeing, storytelling, and the chance to see some of the most recognizable filming locations. For fans, it’s a chance to step into the series, and for others, it’s an enjoyable day exploring Scottish castles and villages.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for Outlander fans eager to visit iconic filming locations, but it also appeals to anyone interested in Scottish castles, scenery, and history. The small group size and flexible pace make it comfortable for travelers who prefer personalized interactions and in-depth stories.

While not specifically tailored for children, families with older kids who are fans of the series or history buffs will find it engaging. Be aware that walking around castles and villages involves some moderate physical activity, so comfortable shoes are a good idea.

The Sum Up

This Outlander day tour from Glasgow or Edinburgh offers a satisfying mix of film location exploration, Scottish scenery, and engaging storytelling. It stands out because of its well-chosen stops, friendly guides, and the chance to walk through scenes from the series while soaking in the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland.

If you’re a Outlander enthusiast or simply a lover of castles and history, this tour promises a memorable day. The small-group setting, inclusive fees, and the flexibility of pickup locations make it a practical choice for many travelers. Just keep in mind that access to certain locations like Lallybroch isn’t always guaranteed, but with so much else to see, it’s still a worthwhile experience.

For the best experience, come prepared to walk, and consider bringing a camera to capture the unforgettable scenery and historic sites. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious traveler, this tour will bring a little piece of Scottish magic into your trip.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, giving enough time to explore each site without feeling rushed.

Can I choose my pickup location?
Yes, you can select pickup from Glasgow or just outside Edinburgh when booking, making it convenient no matter where you’re staying.

Is transportation comfortable?
The tour uses a vehicle that accommodates up to 15 travelers, providing a comfortable environment to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Are admission fees included?
All entrance fees for the locations visited are included in the tour price, so no surprise costs when you arrive.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, a camera, and perhaps a snack or water, as food and drinks aren’t included.

Is this suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically geared toward kids, older children with an interest in Outlander or Scottish castles will enjoy it. Be mindful of walking involved.

What if I want to visit Falkland Palace?
The tour does not include Falkland Palace, but you can explore it during your free time if you wish.

What happens if the tour is canceled?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund. Always confirm your booking to avoid last-minute surprises.

If you’re dreaming of walking the same grounds as Claire and Jamie or simply want to see Scotland’s castles with a knowledgeable guide, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. Just plan ahead, come prepared, and enjoy the Scottish scenery and storytelling.