Edinburgh: “Outlander” Filming Locations Guided Tour

If you’re a fan of the Outlander series, or just fascinated by Scotland’s cinematic and historical landscapes, the Outlander Filming Locations Guided Tour from Edinburgh promises a full day of Scottish scenery, castles, and TV magic — all in one comfortably paced trip. While we haven’t personally taken this particular tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what you can expect.

What’s especially appealing about this experience is its curated route through some of the most beloved filming locations, combined with engaging guides, scenic views, and the chance to step into the worlds of Claire and Jamie. The tour’s 9-hour length makes it an ideal day trip for those wanting a deep dive into Outlander’s universe without the hassle of driving themselves.

One potential caveat to consider is the packed itinerary — with multiple castles, villages, and viewpoints, some stops might feel rushed, especially if you love photography or want more time at each location. Also, the tour is best suited for those comfortable with a full day of travel and walking. This experience is perfect for Outlander fans, history lovers, and anyone eager to see the Scottish countryside through the lens of one of TV’s most popular series.

Key Points

• Authentic filming locations: Visit iconic sites like Lallybroch, Castle Leoch, and Cranesmuir, all brought to life on screen.
• Full-day adventure: Approximately 9 hours filled with castles, villages, and scenic views.
• Expert guides: Engaging and knowledgeable guides, praised for storytelling and background info.
• Convenient transportation: Comfortable coach with a small group, making it easy to focus on the scenery and stories.
• Photo opportunities: Plenty of stops for memorable photos, with some reviews noting slightly limited time at certain sites.
• Value for Outlander fans: Even at $86 per person, the combination of locations, storytelling, and scenery offers good value.

A Deep Dive into the Outlander Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins in Edinburgh with a 15-minute check-in at Haggis Adventures, a well-regarded operator. From there, a coach whisks you away for a full day of Scottish history, TV magic, and picturesque countryside. Reviewers consistently highlight the comfortable transportation and small group size — making for a friendly, intimate experience that’s less about crowds and more about connection.

Midhope Castle (Lallybroch)

The first major stop is Midhope Castle, famously known as Lallybroch in the series. Fans will love standing in front of the exterior that’s become iconic, though some note that “Midhope could have had a little more time for photos” (Kevin, May 2025). Still, it’s a chance to see the estate where Jamie and Jenny Fraser’s story unfolds, and the scenic surroundings set a perfect tone for the day.

Doune Castle: Castle Leoch

Next, you visit Doune Castle, which doubles as Castle Leoch in Outlander. This medieval fortress is a feast for the eyes, with its battlements, towers, and history-rich walls. Many reviews mention its versatility — Doune has also starred in Game of Thrones and Monty Python & the Holy Grail, adding layers of cinematic history. Along With sightseeing, the guide shares stories of Scottish kings, battles, and film trivia, making this stop both educational and visually stunning.

Falkland: Inverness in the 1940s

A highlight for many is the visit to Falkland, which doubles as 1940s Inverness. As one reviewer notes, “you might find Jamies ghostly figure roaming the village square” — a fun, spooky touch that adds to the allure. The charming village square, with its cobblestone streets and period buildings, transports visitors back in time, giving a glimpse of the show’s setting as well as Scottish town life.

Culross: Cranesmuir

The picturesque Culross is next, a colorful village that served as Cranesmuir. This stop offers free time for wandering and photos, with reviewer Andrea praising the tour for its “wonderful” atmosphere. Culross’s bright, historic buildings and quaint streets make for a perfect backdrop, and the guide highlights its importance in the series’ storytelling.

Blackness Castle: Fort William

The tour’s final major filming location is Blackness Castle, which portrays Fort William in Outlander. With its imposing walls overlooking the Firth of Forth, Blackness is a highlight for many. Reviewers describe it as “impressive,” with about 55 minutes to explore its courtyards and ramparts, imagining the TV drama’s darker scenes. The views of the Forth Bridges from here also earn praise—truly spectacular scenery that completes the Scottish film-tour experience.

The Forth Bridges and Return to Edinburgh

The last stop provides a stunning photo opportunity of the Forth Bridges, famed for their engineering marvels and striking appearance. Afterward, the coach heads back to Edinburgh, with most travelers arriving in the early evening, filled with stories and photos.

Practical Details and Value

Pricing at $86 per person covers transportation, an engaging guide, and downloadable audio guides in several languages — a good deal considering the full day’s itinerary and multiple locations visited. Notably, entry fees to the castles are not included, which means it’s worth budgeting extra if you want to explore inside.

Some reviews mention the value as being worth it, especially for Outlander fans who appreciate the behind-the-scenes insights and the chance to stand where the actors did. The small group size allows for a more personalized experience, with guides often sharing interesting tidbits that you might miss on a larger tour.

However, timing can be tight — some stops are around 30 to 55 minutes, so if you love photography or want to linger, be prepared that the schedule is quite full. Also, Midhope Castle may be closed on certain days, in which case the tour substitutes Linlithgow Palace exterior, ensuring continuity of the experience.

Guides and Reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the guides, like Tyegan, Dusty, and Charlie, for their knowledge, humor, and ability to weave Scottish history into the Outlander story. Many mention the guides’ storytelling skills—adding depth and personality to the trip, making it more than just a sightseeing tour.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The tour is not suitable for children under 18, mostly due to the full-day commitment and walking involved. Arrive at least 15 minutes early to check in; late arrivals will miss the coach. Remember, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy something during the stops.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This outing suits dedicated Outlander fans eager to see the real-life locations behind their favorite scenes. It’s also perfect for history buffs interested in Scottish castles and towns, and those who enjoy scenic drives with lively storytelling. If you’re traveling with a group or family, the small-group format enhances the experience.

However, if you prefer a slower pace, more time at each site, or are traveling with very young children, you might find the schedule a bit rushed. Plus, the cost is reasonable considering the scope of the trip, but some may prefer to explore certain sites independently with extra time.

The Sum Up

The Outlander Filming Locations Tour from Edinburgh offers a well-rounded, visually stunning, and storyteller-led journey through some of Scotland’s most famous filming spots. With knowledgeable guides, scenic views, and the chance to walk through castles and villages that bring the series to life, it’s an excellent choice for fans and travelers who want a blend of TV magic and Scottish charm.

The presence of enthusiastic guides who share intriguing stories, paired with breathtaking scenery and photo stops, makes this a worthwhile day out. While the schedule is tight and entry fees are extra, the overall value for the price is solid, especially for those eager to see the series’ iconic locations firsthand.

If you love Outlander, enjoy Scottish castles, or simply want a fun, informative day exploring the country’s beautiful landscapes, this tour could become a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from Edinburgh is included in the tour price, with a comfortable coach that facilitates sightseeing and keeps the day moving efficiently.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks, with departure and return points at Haggis Adventures.

Are entry fees to castles included?
No, entry to Midhope, Blackness Castle, and Doune Castle are not included. You’ll need to budget extra if you want to explore inside.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Food and drinks are not included, and there are no specified stops for meals. Bringing snacks or a packed lunch is recommended.

Are children allowed?
This tour is not suitable for children under 18 due to the full-day schedule and walking involved.

What languages are available for the audio guides?
Audio guides are available in German, French, Italian, Chinese, and Portuguese for supplemental narration.

How much time is spent at each site?
Stops range from 30 to 55 minutes, which is enough for photos and brief exploration but might feel rushed for those wanting more time.

Is the tour suitable for photography enthusiasts?
Yes, there are multiple photo stops, though some reviewers note that time at certain locations could be longer for perfect shots.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a student card if applicable, and possibly rain gear, depending on the weather.

What happens if a castle is closed?
The tour can substitute a different site, like Linlithgow Palace, to ensure all travelers still get a memorable experience.

In summary, this guided tour offers a balanced, engaging look at Scotland’s Outlander locations, providing fans with a tangible connection to the series and non-fans with stunning scenery and historical insights. Well-paced, informative, and often praised for its guides, it’s an excellent choice for a full day of TV-inspired adventure in Scotland.