From Edinburgh: “Outlander” Filming Locations Explorer Tour

Trying to decide whether a full-day Outlander-themed tour from Edinburgh is worth your time? This popular experience—rated 4.8 out of 5 from over 900 reviews—offers a well-paced journey through some of Scotland’s most gorgeous spots, both for fans of the series and lovers of Scottish scenery. With expert guides, comfortable transportation, and a carefully curated itinerary, this tour promises to bring the magic of Outlander to life, along with a generous dose of Scottish history and legends.

What we really love about this experience is how seamlessly it combines the fantasy of Outlander with real Scottish sites, making it perfect for fans wanting to see the actual locations where the series was filmed. Plus, the small-group vibe ensures you get plenty of attention from the guides, who are praised for their knowledge and storytelling flair. On the flip side, some visitors note that certain castles may be closed for filming or seasonally, which can slightly alter the experience. Still, with options like Linlithgow Palace replacing temporarily closed sites, the overall value remains high. This tour suits those who treasure immersive experiences, appreciate scenic drives, and want a balanced mix of iconic castles and quaint villages.

Key Points

• Authentic Locations: Visit Blackness Castle, Doune Castle, and the charming village of Falkland.
• Expert Guides: Guides are known for their storytelling, historical insights, and humorous anecdotes.
• Flexible Experience: Optional castle entries provide a personalized touch.
• Great Value: Combining transportation, multiple site visits, and expert commentary for just $86.
• Ideal for Fans & Travelers: Perfect for Outlander lovers and history buffs alike.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned minibus, pick-up from Edinburgh, and well-paced stops.

An Overview of the Outlander Tour Experience

This 9-hour journey from Edinburgh is designed to satisfy fans of Outlander and anyone captivated by Scottish landscapes and history. The tour is operated by Highland Explorer Tours, known for their friendly guides and seamless logistics. A typical day involves early departure, comfortable bus travel, and plenty of opportunities to take photos, explore sites, and learn stories behind the scenes.

Throughout the day, you’ll visit a combination of filming locations and historical sites, with the focus on the series but also incorporating authentic Scottish landmarks and legends. The overall experience balances entertainment, education, and scenic enjoyment, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point: Highland Explorer Tours

The adventure begins at a central Edinburgh meeting point. The staff are efficient and friendly, providing a quick check-in process and some introductory info before heading out.

Midhope Castle – The Exterior of Lallybroch

Your first stop is Midhope Castle, which stands in for Lallybroch, a key location in Outlander. The tour typically spends about 30 minutes here. Visitors love the photo opportunities and the way the castle’s rustic charm instantly transports them into the series. However, note that Midhope is seasonally closed from December to March, and on certain days when it is open, you might only get exterior views. Some recommend bringing your camera for great shots even from outside, as one reviewer pointed out, “You only see it from a distance, but it’s still worth it.”

Doune Castle – Castle Leoch & Monty Python’s Holy Grail

Next is Doune Castle, which served as Castle Leoch in Outlander, and also famously appeared in Monty Python and the Holy Grail. The guide, frequently praised for their storytelling, will share interesting facts about the castle’s history and its multiple roles in film and TV. You can explore the grounds and imagine the characters of Outlander wandering its halls. The visit lasts about an hour, giving plenty of time for photos and exploration.

Culross – Inverness in the 17th Century

The tour then heads to Culross, a beautifully preserved 17th-century town. Here, Claire was accused of witchcraft in the series, making it a favorite among fans. The town’s historic architecture and cobblestone streets create a perfect backdrop for Outlander scenes. Visitors describe it as a “complete example of a traditional Scottish burgh” that remains largely unchanged, offering an authentic step back in time. The stop lasts about an hour, allowing visitors to walk around, shop for souvenirs, or just enjoy the atmospheric streets.

Falkland – The 1940s Inverness

Falkland is the charming village used as the setting for 1940s Inverness in Outlander. This location boasts about 28 listed buildings, each with its own story and architectural significance. Visitors often remark on how well-preserved and picturesque the village is, and how it feels like stepping into a living postcard. The guide will share insights into Scottish life during that era, and the time here lasts roughly 45 minutes.

Blackness Castle – Fort William & Strategic Stronghold

The grand finale is Blackness Castle, perched on a commanding position overlooking Blackness Bay. It’s a highlight because of its dramatic appearance and historical significance. The castle’s role in Outlander as Fort William adds to its allure. Visitors typically spend about 55 minutes here, with options for photos, self-guided exploration, and learning about the castle’s strategic importance. One reviewer noted, “Blackness Castle is stunning, and the views from the top are worth the trip alone.”

Return to Edinburgh

After a full day of sightseeing, the bus heads back to Edinburgh, with most travelers feeling satisfied with the mix of scenery, history, and series-related sites. The overall timing is well-structured, and the bus ride offers a chance to relax and chat about the day’s highlights.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides: Throughout our research and reviews, guides like Tim, Cara, and Connor receive high praise for their storytelling ability, humor, and depth of knowledge. They make history come alive with interesting facts, Scottish songs, and personal anecdotes. For instance, one guide shared popular Scottish tunes during the drive, creating a lively atmosphere.

Authentic Filming Locations: The stops at Midhope, Doune, Culross, Falkland, and Blackness Castle give fans a real sense of connection to the series. Even non-fans often enjoy the stunning scenery and historic ambiance. Several reviews highlight how guides helped bring these sites’ stories to life, with some guests noting how their experience was enhanced by the guides’ enthusiasm.

Value for Money: At $86 per person, this tour offers a full day of sightseeing, transportation, and expert commentary. The inclusion of entry to key castles—when optional—adds to the value, though some sites may be closed seasonally. For the price, it’s a comprehensive experience that combines film tourism with Scottish culture.

Comfort & Convenience: The air-conditioned minibus, pick-up in Edinburgh, and well-timed stops make the day smooth and enjoyable. The small group size ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, and the pace allows for ample time at each location.

Additional Highlights: Some reviews mention hearing Scottish legends, enjoying local music, and discovering fascinating historical facts beyond the series. This adds depth for travelers who appreciate more than just the visual appeal.

Potential Considerations

While the experience is largely positive, a few points are worth noting. For example, certain castles, including Midhope, might be seasonally closed, or closed for filming, which can alter expectations. The tour adapts by offering alternative sites like Linlithgow Palace, but this may slightly change the feel of the visit.

Weather can also influence the trip—Scottish weather is famously unpredictable—so pack accordingly. Plus, the walking involved, especially at castles and villages, varies from leisurely to moderate. Comfortable shoes are advisable.

Lastly, the tour doesn’t include food or drinks, so bringing snacks or planning a meal is recommended, especially if you have dietary restrictions or prefer specific cuisine.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This Outlander tour is perfect for fans of the series eager to see the filming locations firsthand. The guide’s engaging storytelling enriches the experience, making each site memorable. It’s also great for history enthusiasts who enjoy Scottish castles, towns, and legends, even if they’re not series fans.

Travelers who appreciate scenic drives and authentic towns will find plenty to enjoy, while those seeking a well-organized, value-packed day will appreciate the thoughtful itinerary and inclusions. It’s most suitable for those over age five, as younger children may find some sites less engaging or might not enjoy the full walking and exploring involved.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a genuine, well-rounded look at Scotland through the lens of Outlander and beyond. The combination of stunning scenery, historic sites, and entertaining guides creates a memorable experience that appeals to a variety of travelers. Its affordability, flexible options, and positive reviews point to a good value for anyone wanting to explore Scotland’s most iconic locations without the hassle of planning.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the series, a lover of Scottish castles, or simply seeking a scenic and culturally enriching day out, this tour delivers on multiple levels. The knowledgeable guides, beautiful locations, and engaging stories make it a worthwhile addition to any Edinburgh itinerary.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transportation by air-conditioned minibus from the meeting point in Edinburgh to all the sites and back.

Can I visit the castles inside?
Entry to some castles is optional and depends on whether you select the castle options or if sites are open that day. For example, at Midhope, you might only see it from outside during certain times of the year.

How long do we stay at each location?
Stops range from about 30 minutes at Midhope to nearly an hour at Doune and Blackness Castles, with shorter visits at Culross and Falkland. The schedule balances sightseeing with free time.

Are guides knowledgeable about Scottish history?
Absolutely. Guests frequently praise guides like Tim, Cara, and Connor for their enthusiasm, storytelling skills, and depth of historical knowledge, making the sites come alive.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for children over 5 years old. Younger kids might find the walking and history less engaging, though it depends on the child.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and maybe some snacks. The tour doesn’t include food or drinks.

Are the sites crowded?
Since the tour is well-paced and small-group style, you’ll generally avoid large crowds, but popular sites like Doune Castle can get busy during peak seasons.

What if some sites are closed?
The tour operator offers substitutions like Linlithgow Palace if certain castles are seasonally closed or temporarily unavailable, ensuring the experience remains fulfilling.

To sum it up, this Outlander filming locations tour from Edinburgh offers a rich blend of series-related sites, authentic Scottish towns, and castles, all led by guides celebrated for their storytelling. It’s a smart choice for fans and anyone wanting a memorable, value-packed day exploring Scotland’s cinematic and historic highlights.