Edinburgh and Outlander by Rail from London 3-Day Tour

Traveling from London to Edinburgh for a quick yet immersive experience? This 3-day tour, organized by Evan Evans Tours, promises a balanced mix of historical sights, stunning scenery, and Outlander filming locations—perfect for those craving a taste of Scotland without the hassle of planning every detail. From the moment you board the reserved train seats to exploring iconic castles and filming sites, this trip is designed to deliver a well-rounded, memorable adventure.

What really stands out is the seamless combination of travel and sightseeing—your train journey is included, so no fuss about transport logistics. Plus, the guided Outlander Explorer tour on Day 2 means you get insider stories and rich context behind the series’ most famous locations. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t entirely guided every day—Days 1 and 3 are unescorted, so independent explorers should be prepared for some self-navigation.

This tour will suit history buffs, Outlander fans, and those wanting a manageable, all-in-one Scottish experience. If you’re comfortable with a packed schedule and a fair amount of walking, this could be a fantastic, value-packed way to see Edinburgh and its filming magic in just three days.

Key Points

• Convenient Rail Travel: Relax on reserved seats from London, with a scenic journey that sets the tone for your trip.
• Deep Dive into Edinburgh’s History: Entry to Edinburgh Castle and visits to landmarks like the Stone of Destiny and Holyroodhouse.
• Outlander Filming Locations: Visit iconic sites like Midhope Castle (Lallybroch), Doune Castle (Castle Leoch), and Blackness Castle (Fort William).
• Expert-guided Day 2: Insightful stories and behind-the-scenes details from knowledgeable guides during the Outlander tour.
• Flexible Sightseeing: On Days 1 and 3, explore at your own pace, with recommendations to wander Old Town, New Town, or Castle Hill.
• Authentic Scottish Experience: From medieval castles to fictional villages like Culross, the tour ties history and fiction seamlessly.

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day Edinburgh and Outlander Rail Tour

Day 1: Arriving in Edinburgh – A City of Charms and Castle Walls

Your adventure begins early with a train from London Kings Cross at 7:00 am, arriving in Edinburgh around 11:20 am. The journey with LNER offers reserved seats—no scrambling for space, just a comfortable ride with views of the English and Scottish countryside flickering past. Many travelers appreciate the punctuality and comfort, which leaves you free to start soaking in Edinburgh’s atmosphere shortly after arrival.

Once in the city, your included entrance to Edinburgh Castle is a highlight. Built on the volcanic Castle Rock and over 1,100 years old, the fortress offers panoramic views of the city and harbors tales of kings, sieges, and Scottish sovereignty. Multiple reviews mention the “fascinating history” and the “long, bloody past” of the castle, which makes wandering through its ramparts an immersive experience. Make sure to arrive early to beat the crowds, especially if you want good photo opportunities of the Stone of Destiny and the Crown Jewels.

After touring the castle, your hop-on hop-off bus ticket kicks in. This flexible option lets you explore Grassmarket, with its lively atmosphere and views of Edinburgh Castle. Visitors say that the guided commentary is engaging, providing stories that bring sites like John Knox House and Holyroodhouse alive. The all-day validity means you can hop off at your leisure, perhaps taking some time to visit the Royal Mile or relax in a local café.

Day 2: Outlander Filming Locations – A Journey Through Fiction and Reality

Day 2 is the heart of this tour for Outlander fans but also a deeply engaging day for history lovers. The day kicks off with a drive through Fife, where the guide shares insights into the area’s royal heritage, setting the scene for the castles ahead.

First stop is Midhope Castle, famous as Lallybroch—Jamie Fraser’s fictional home. While the exterior is the real deal, the interior isn’t open to visitors, but the outside views are enough to ignite your imagination. Many reviews highlight how surreal it feels to see the actual location where the series’ most beloved scenes were shot.

Next, it’s over to Doune Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress used as Castle Leoch in Outlander, and also as Winterfell in Game of Thrones. Visitors often comment on its impressive age and architecture, which make it easy to see why it’s a favorite filming spot. The guide provides fun anecdotes about its history and filming trivia, making the visit more engaging—especially if you’re a fan of Scottish castles or TV series.

Lunch in Culross is a highlight, a charming, well-preserved 17th-century village that the series depicts as Cranesmuir. Reviewers love how authentic it feels, with cobbled streets and historical buildings. It’s a great break before heading to Blackness Castle, a dramatic fortress on the Firth of Forth, which starred as Fort William in Outlander. Many note the breathtaking views of the Forth Bridge from here as the perfect photo opportunity.

The day ends with a return to Edinburgh around 5:30 pm, giving you time to reflect on the day’s sights or enjoy a quiet dinner in the city.

Day 3: Free Day to Explore Edinburgh

Your final day is flexible. With until late afternoon, you can soak in Edinburgh’s unique blend of medieval and Georgian architecture. A walk up Castle Hill is highly recommended—many appreciate the stunning panoramic views and the chance to stand where Scottish kings and queens once did.

If you’re interested in local culture, don’t miss the Stone of Destiny, traditionally used in Scottish coronations. Shopping along the Royal Mile or visiting additional attractions can fill your day, but the key is to enjoy Edinburgh at your own pace. Many travelers say that wandering through the Old Town’s labyrinth of streets is a highlight, with plenty of cozy pubs and shops to discover.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What to Consider

This tour strikes a good balance between guided and independent exploration. The return train journey from London is a significant convenience, removing the stress of booking separate tickets. The reserved seats ensure comfort, and the scenic route helps set the tone for your Scottish adventure.

The entrance to Edinburgh Castle and the hop-on hop-off bus add flexibility and value, especially considering the cost of individual tickets. The fully guided Outlander day tour is a major highlight, offering stories and insights that you won’t get from a map alone—reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides, who make the locations come alive.

However, the tour does not include lunch, so budget accordingly. Also, it’s not suitable for children under 5 or those with mobility issues, as some sites involve walking and uneven terrain. The unescorted days (Day 1 and Day 3) require some independence, so if you’re looking for a fully guided experience every step of the way, this might not be the perfect fit.

Value for Money

Considering the train travel, castle entries, guided tours, and flexible sightseeing options, many travelers find this tour offers good value. It’s a time-efficient way to cover both the historic and fictional highlights of Edinburgh and surrounds, without the hassle of planning every detail.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for history enthusiasts, Outlander fans, and travelers seeking a manageable, well-organized Scottish experience. It’s also an excellent choice for those who prefer to combine guided tours with free time, allowing for personalized exploration. However, it’s less suited for those with mobility impairments or young children, given the walking involved and the nature of some sites.

If you’re seeking a scenic, educational, and culturally rich short trip from London, this tour ticks many boxes—especially if you want to connect with Scotland’s past and its TV series magic in just three days.

The Sum Up: Why This Tour Is a Strong Option

This 3-day Edinburgh and Outlander tour offers an impressive balance of guided storytelling, scenic travel, and independent exploration. The inclusion of reserved train seats adds comfort, while the carefully curated stops—like Edinburgh Castle and the Outlander filming locations—deliver both historical insight and TV-inspired fun. The expert guides, particularly during the Day 2 Outlander experience, ensure visitors leave with stories to tell and photos to cherish.

It’s most suited for those who appreciate a structured yet flexible itinerary, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy Edinburgh’s cityscape or explore its history. The combination of seamless transport, authentic sites, and entertaining guides makes for a memorable Scottish getaway that doesn’t demand weeks of planning.

If you’re after a practical, value-packed way to experience Scotland’s capital and its legendary series, this tour could be just what you need.

FAQ

• What is included in the tour?
  Return train journey with reserved seats from London, entrance to Edinburgh Castle, hop-on hop-off bus tour, and a full-day Outlander Explorer tour.

• Does the tour include hotel pick-up?
  No, hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included; you meet at London King’s Cross and return there at the end.

• When does the train depart and arrive?
  Outbound from London at 7:00 am, arriving in Edinburgh around 11:20 am. Return departs Edinburgh at 5:30 pm, arriving in London at 10:09 pm.

• Is there a guided tour on all days?
  No, only Day 2 (Outlander Explorer) is fully guided. Days 1 and 3 are unescorted, giving you free time.

• Are the castles open all year?
  Some filming locations like Midhope Castle and Doune Castle may be closed on filming days, but the itinerary adjusts accordingly.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  It’s suitable for children aged 5 and above but not recommended for those under 5 or with mobility impairments.

• What should I bring?
  Comfortable shoes, camera, snacks, water, and weather-appropriate clothing.

• Are meals included?
  No, lunch and other meals are not included, so plan to bring or buy food during the day.

• Is the tour available year-round?
  You need to check availability for specific dates; the tour operates on set scheduled days.

• What if I want to cancel?
  Free cancellation up to 7 days in advance for a full refund.

This journey combines the best of Scotland’s history, scenery, and TV culture in a compact, enjoyable package—perfect for those eager to take a memorable trip without the fuss of extensive planning.