From Edinburgh: The Outlander Experience Guided Tour

Traveling through the Scottish countryside with a focus on Outlander filming locations offers a unique way to see the country’s historic sites and picturesque villages. This guided day trip from Edinburgh promises to bring the beloved TV series to life, showcasing stunning castles, charming villages, and actual filming spots that fans will recognize instantly. With knowledgeable guides, scenic views, and an itinerary packed with iconic locations, it’s a popular choice for Outlander enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

What we love about this tour is its combination of entertainment and authenticity—your guide’s storytelling adds a layer of depth that makes the experience more meaningful. Plus, visiting sites like Doune Castle and Lallybroch provides a tangible connection to the series and Scottish history. One consideration is that the tour is quite full, with roughly 8 hours packed with stops, so it’s best suited to those happy to spend a long day on the road and exploring. This tour strikes a good balance for Outlander fans seeking insight and scenery, as well as anyone interested in Scottish castles and villages.

Key Points

• Authentic filming locations: Visit sites like Castle Leoch, Lallybroch, and Wentworth Prison
• Knowledgeable guides: Experts who share fascinating details about Outlander, Scottish history, and the locations
• Beautiful scenery: Stunning villages, castles, and countryside on a comfortable coach journey
• Great value: For around $61, you get a full-day experience with multiple iconic stops
• Flexible options: Check availability for different start times, with the chance to tailor your experience
• Limited but intimate group size, making it easier to ask questions and engage with your guide

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Easy Morning Start and Comfortable Transport

The tour begins bright and early outside the Apex Waterloo Place Hotel at 8:20 AM. The coach, described as air-conditioned, ensures you stay comfortable throughout what is a lengthy day. The small group size—thanks to the nature of these tours—means you’re not just one face in the crowd, which enhances the storytelling experience.

Falkland: Inverness and the Honeymoon Spot

Our first stop is Falkland, a charming village that doubles for Inverness in Outlander. Here, you get to walk around the streets where Claire and Frank honeymoon in the series. Reviewers consistently mention how much they appreciate the opportunity to snap photos and get a sense of the real location that inspired the TV scenery. The 20-minute stop isn’t long, but it’s enough to soak in the sights, take some photos, and get a feel for the village’s authentic Scottish charm.

Culross: Cranesmuir and the Heart of Season 1

Next up is Culross, a remarkably well-preserved 16th-century village used to depict Cranesmuir, the eerie town in Outlander’s first season. Visitors love how many scenes come to life here, especially because many of the buildings remain unchanged since filming. One reviewer noted that “several parts of Culross are used to depict the village of Cranesmuir,” making it a must-see for fans eager to connect the dots between screen and reality. It’s a good place for a leisurely walk and some exploration, with time for photos and soaking up the medieval atmosphere.

Doune Castle: Castle Leoch

Then, it’s time for a real highlight—Doune Castle, known as Castle Leoch in the series. This medieval fortress dominates the landscape and has been a key filming spot for season 1. The exterior, courtyard, and Great Hall are all used in the show, and visitors often comment on how atmospheric and well-preserved it is. Some tours may substitute Blackness Castle, but Doune remains the most common. Visitors love wandering through the castle’s ruins, imagining Jamie and Claire’s adventures, with many mentioning the value of the guided commentary in understanding its significance.

Linlithgow Palace: Wentworth Prison

Our next stop is Linlithgow, famous as the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. In Outlander, this site is transformed into Wentworth Prison—the place where Jamie is held captive and tortured. This particular scene is one of the series’ most intense, so seeing the palace in person adds an extra layer of understanding. The 105-minute stop allows for exploration, lunch, shopping, and photography. Reviewers mention how the palace’s ruins help bring the series’ dramatic scenes to life, making it a compelling part of the day.

Midhope Castle: Lallybroch

The final major location is Midhope Castle, also called Lallybroch, Jamie Fraser’s family home. This spot is a highlight for Outlander fans who want to see the exterior of Jamie’s ancestral home. The castle is only accessible from March through December, which is important to keep in mind if you’re planning a winter visit. Many reviews highlight the photo opportunities here and the sense of stepping into the series. The visit is brief, around 15 minutes, but packed with potential for capturing your Outlander fantasy.

Return and Reflection

After a full day of exploring, the coach heads back to Edinburgh, arriving at the original meeting point. Reviewers have expressed how the journey, guided by passionate and humorous guides like Ian and B-Dog, adds humor and depth to the experience. Many share that the stories, combined with the stunning scenery, made it a memorable day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $61, this tour offers considerable value, especially considering the access to locations like Midhope Castle’s grounds, which you’d otherwise need separate tickets for. The transportation and guide are included, ensuring a hassle-free experience. However, note that entrance fees for some sites aren’t covered, so budgeting for some extra expenses like meals or souvenirs is wise. The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, but the meeting point is conveniently located in central Edinburgh.

Guides and Reviews

Like many reviewers, we’re impressed with guides such as Brendan, Ian, and B-Dog, who deliver engaging, humorous, and well-informed commentary. Multiple reviews praise their ability to combine Scottish history with Outlander trivia, making the day not only fun but educational. Their storytelling, humor, and knowledge seem to be a significant part of what makes this tour stand out.

Practical Tips

• Book early as the tour often sells out, especially during peak seasons.
• Bring a camera and cash for souvenirs or optional extras.
• Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking around historic sites and villages.
• Check the availability for Midhope Castle if you’re visiting outside March-December.
• Prepare for the weather; Scotland’s climate can be unpredictable, so a raincoat or umbrella might come in handy—even if the reviews mostly mention good weather.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This guided Outlander experience is perfect for fans of the series who want to see the filming locations in person, but it also offers valuable historical insights into Scotland’s castles, villages, and past. If you enjoy a good story, scenic drives, and learning about Scottish heritage, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate expert guides with a sense of humor and storytelling flair.

For travelers with limited time in Edinburgh, it provides a comprehensive, immersive day out, making it a worthwhile investment. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to explore more deeply into each site, you might prefer a longer, more flexible exploration. Still, for a well-organized, engaging, and photo-worthy adventure, this tour delivers.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 6 are not suitable for this tour, and given the full day’s length, it’s best for older children and teens who can handle the long coach journey and walking.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
No, entrance fees are not included, so you might need to budget extra for sites like Doune Castle if you wish to go inside. The tour primarily offers access to grounds and exterior visits.

What should I bring?
A camera is a must for capturing the stunning scenery and filming locations, and cash can be useful for souvenirs or snacks during stops.

Can I join this tour if I don’t watch Outlander?
Absolutely. While Outlander fans will recognize many sites, the scenic villages and castles are worth seeing regardless of your TV interests.

What is the group size?
While not explicitly specified, reviews suggest a small to medium group size, which enhances interaction and allows for a more personalized experience.

What happens if the scheduled sites are unavailable?
In winter or due to unforeseen circumstances, some sites like Linlithgow Palace or Midhope Castle may be unavailable, and guides like Ian have been known to substitute with other historic castles such as Stirling.

This guided Outlander tour combines the magic of Scottish castles, villages, and series-inspired locations with entertaining guides and breathtaking scenery. It’s an excellent way to spend a day, especially if you’re a fan of the series or a lover of Scottish history and architecture. Expect a mix of storytelling, stunning views, and plenty of photo opportunities—an outing that leaves you with lasting memories of Scotland’s cinematic and historic charm.