Jacobite History and Outlander’s Scotland Walking Tour

Exploring Edinburgh’s Jacobite and Outlander Past: A Detailed Review of the Walking Tour

If you’re headed to Edinburgh and love a good story, especially one woven into the city’s fabric or TV screens, the Jacobite History and Outlander’s Scotland Walking Tour promises a fascinating two hours of storytelling and sightseeing. Run by passionate local guides dressed in authentic costumes, this tour offers a lively and engaging way to connect with Edinburgh’s historic streets and hidden corners.

What really makes this experience shine is the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge—reviewers frequently mention their guides’ ability to make history fun and accessible. Plus, with a focus on iconic locations linked to the Jacobites and Outlander TV series, it’s a treat for both history buffs and fans of the show.

However, at just around $25 per person for approximately two hours, this tour is an affordable way to get a meaningful snapshot of Edinburgh’s past. Travelers on a tight schedule will appreciate how much ground you cover in a short time. That said, because it’s a walking tour, those with mobility issues or large strollers may want to double-check the route details beforehand.

Who should consider this? This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy storytelling, want a compact but rich introduction to Edinburgh’s historic sites, or are Outlander fans eager to see locations made famous by the show. Families and solo travelers alike will find plenty to love in this friendly, small-group setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Guides in Costume: Guides bring history alive with their attire and spirited narration.
• Rich Historical Content: Covering Edinburgh’s Old Town, the tour touches on significant sites like Greyfriars Kirkyard and Parliament Square.
• Outlander Connections: Special locations related to the TV series add a fun twist for fans.
• Compact and Family-Friendly: At just 2 hours, it’s suitable for all ages and stroller-friendly.
• Highly Rated: Consistently praised with a 5-star rating from 15 reviews, reflecting strong satisfaction.
• Affordable and Well-Booked: The tour is popular, often booked 72 days in advance, and priced at just $24.68.

Discovering Edinburgh Through History and TV

Walking into St Giles’ Cathedral at the start of the tour, you’re immediately immersed in one of Edinburgh’s most iconic historic landmarks. The tour begins here, setting the tone for a journey through centuries of Scottish resilience and rebellion. The guide, dressed in period costume, immediately captures your attention with enthusiasm and a knack for storytelling.

The first part of the route takes you through Edinburgh Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site packed with narrow closes, cobbled streets, and centuries-old buildings. You’ll learn about the rebellious moments that shaped the city, including stories from Greyfriars Kirkyard, where legends of the Covenant still whisper through the stones. As one reviewer noted, the guides “relayed history in a fun and interesting manner that kept my attention,” showcasing how lively and engaging the tour can be.

Next, you’ll visit Parliament Square, where historic debates on Scottish independence once took center stage. Standing near the Old Parliament House, you’ll get a vivid sense of the political struggles that define Scottish history. The guide highlights rebels’ plotting and the significance of these sites, which helps visitors connect past events with Edinburgh’s modern identity.

The tour’s focus on hidden gems like Bakehouse Close and Tweeddale Court reveals Edinburgh’s lesser-known stories. These tucked-away spaces hold secrets of old, from secretive trade to clandestine meetings, making each step a discovery. One reviewer described it as “a small group, which made it much more intimate,” allowing for personal stories and questions, deepening the connection to the city.

Outlander and Historical Highlights

A standout feature is the inclusion of Outlander-related locations. Fans of the series will appreciate visiting places seen on screen, such as the haunting Canongate Cemetery near Holyroodhouse. Here, the guide’s storytelling brings to life the series’ scenes, blending TV magic with real history. The emphasis on these sites adds a layer of excitement and makes the tour especially memorable for Outlander enthusiasts.

The guide’s knowledge about Scottish history and Outlander’s filming locations was a recurring theme in reviews. One reviewer, Saskia, called the guide “the best tour guide she’s ever had,” praising her humor, friendliness, and wealth of knowledge—not just about Edinburgh but also about Outlander’s filming stories.

Value and Practical Details

Priced at roughly $24.68 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the depth of storytelling and sightseeing covered in just two hours. It’s a cost-effective way to get a compact overview of Edinburgh’s history without paying for multiple attractions or longer excursions.

The tour operates at 2:00 pm, starting at St Giles’ Cathedral, making it suitable for the afternoon slot—perfect if you want to see the city’s highlights after morning sightseeing or a quick lunch. It’s mobile ticket, so no worries about paper—simply show up with your confirmation.

With most travelers able to participate, the tour is stroller-friendly and suitable for families, which makes it accessible for a wide range of visitors. The small group size (up to 30) ensures a more personal experience, allowing for interaction and questions.

One important consideration: the tour is non-refundable if canceled, so check the weather forecast. Edinburgh’s weather can be unpredictable, but if it rains, the tour provider offers options for rescheduling or full refunds.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes a 2-hour guided walk with an experienced guide dressed in costume, bringing history vividly to life. However, entry into other attractions like Holyroodhouse or Greyfriars Kirkyard isn’t included, so if you want to explore those further, you’ll need separate tickets.

The Authentic Edinburgh Experience

What makes this tour stand out is the passion of the guides—reviewers consistently praise their enthusiasm, knowledge, and ability to make history engaging. Charlotte, the guide in many reviews, is singled out for her storytelling skills and her dedication, often spending more than the scheduled time to share stories and answer questions.

This tour isn’t just about ticking off landmarks; it’s about feeling the spirit of Edinburgh’s rebellious past and the stories that still echo through its streets. The combination of historical facts, hidden corners, and TV series tie-ins creates a well-rounded experience that appeals to a wide audience.

The Sum Up

This Jacobite and Outlander Scotland Walking Tour offers a practical, affordable, and highly enjoyable way to explore Edinburgh’s history in a lively setting. The guides’ enthusiasm and detailed storytelling breathe life into the city’s oldest streets, making it a memorable experience for history lovers, Outlander fans, and curious travelers alike.

If you’re short on time but want a meaningful, fun introduction to Edinburgh’s past, this tour hits the mark. Its family-friendly nature and intimate group size make it an easy choice for a wide range of travelers seeking an authentic local perspective.

While it doesn’t include entry to other attractions, it compensates with its rich storytelling, stunning views, and a chance to walk with a passionate guide through the heart of Edinburgh’s history. For those who enjoy learning through stories and seeing locations made famous on screen, this tour is a real gem.

Overall, if you value knowledgeable guides, engaging storytelling, and a focus on authentic sites, this tour is a worthwhile addition to your Edinburgh itinerary.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or strollers?
Yes, it’s stroller-friendly and suitable for families, making it accessible for travelers with children of all ages.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, covering a lot of ground in a short period, ideal for those on a tight schedule.

What are the start and end points?
The tour begins at St Giles’ Cathedral and ends back at the same spot, making it easy to plan your day around.

Is the tour available in different languages?
The provided info doesn’t specify language options, but most guided tours in Edinburgh tend to be in English.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended—most people book about 3 months in advance, as it’s popular and often fully booked.

Are tickets refundable if my plans change?
No, the tour is non-refundable and can’t be changed, so be sure of your schedule before booking. In case of poor weather, you might be offered a different date or a full refund.

This walking tour combines fun storytelling, stunning sights, and a chance to connect with Edinburgh’s rebellious spirit—all for an accessible price. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, Outlander fan, or simply curious about Scotland’s capital, it’s an experience worth considering.