Outlander Tour

Outlander Tour Review: A Deep Dive into Scotland’s Cinematic Heartland

If you’re a fan of the Outlander series or just love Scottish history and scenery, this private Outlander Tour in Glasgow offers an engaging way to explore iconic filming sites and historic locations. Taking roughly 8 hours, this tour pairs stunning landscapes with fascinating stories, all while providing the comfort and flexibility of a private experience.

What we love most is the tour’s focus on authentic locations like Doune Castle and Culross Palace, combined with a knowledgeable guide who can tailor the stops to your interests. The inclusion of WiFi, charging points, and private transportation makes it easy to stay connected and comfortable throughout the day.

However, a consideration worth noting is that entrance fees to the various sites are not included in the tour price, meaning you’ll need to budget extra for tickets. This can add up, especially if you’re keen to explore everything in detail.

This tour is perfect for dedicated Outlander fans eager to see the show’s filming locations firsthand or travelers who want a flexible, curated day in the Scottish Highlands with a personal touch.

Key Points

• Private and Customizable: With no other travelers, your guide can adapt the itinerary to your preferences.
• Authentic Locations: Visit castles, villages, and sites used in the series, many with significant historical stories.
• Comfort and Connectivity: Private transport equipped with WiFi and charging points for a seamless experience.
• Extra Costs: Entry fees are not included, so budget accordingly.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Alistair are praised for their friendly, informative approach.
• Ideal for Fans and History Buffs: Whether you’re obsessed with Outlander or love Scottish castles, this tour suits a variety of interests.

The Experience: An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Falkland Palace & Garden

Our journey begins at Falkland Palace & Garden, a site with royal connections and a touch of Scottish royalty history. Still technically Crown property, Falkland Palace has been in the keepership of the Crichton Stuart family since 1887. It’s a place that regularly appears in Outlander, notably as the setting for Claire and Frank’s post-war Inverness in season 1.

We loved how the guide explained the palace’s layered history—once a royal residence, now a captivating ruin—and its role in the series. While admission isn’t included, the exterior and gardens alone are worth a quick stop, offering a glimpse into the Scottish monarchy’s grandeur and the series’ cinematic backdrop.

Culross Palace and Village

Next, we head to Culross Palace, a highlight for Outlander fans. Recognized as one of Scotland’s most picturesque villages, Culross is a shining example of a Royal Burgh from the 17th and 18th centuries. Its well-preserved buildings and charming streets make it a living museum, and the series’ fans will recognize it as the filming location for several scenes, thanks to its striking appearance.

Our guide emphasized that Culross is a must-see—not just for Outlander fans but for anyone interested in Scottish architecture and history. The town’s picture-perfect streets are an Instagram favorite, and the opportunity to walk where the series was filmed adds a special touch. Admission fees are extra, but the visual payoff is worth it.

Blackness Castle

The tour continues to Blackness Castle, an imposing fortress built in the 1400s. It was once a port and served as both a prison and a garrison, with a formidable military history. In Outlander, it’s used to portray Fort William, where Jamie endures punishment from Captain Black Jack Randall.

The reviewers appreciated the castle’s dramatic look and historical significance, adding depth to the Outlander stories. The castle has seen a long siege and even fallen into Cromwell’s hands, reflecting its strategic importance. Expect an hour of exploring its ramparts and halls, with extra fees for entry.

Doune Castle

A true highlight, Doune Castle appears as a fan-favorite filming location in both Outlander and Monty Python & The Holy Grail. Built in the late 1300s, this dramatic structure boasts a stunning 100-foot gatehouse and some of the best-preserved Great Halls in Scotland.

Many reviewers, including those not familiar with the series, found Doune captivating for its medieval charm. Its appearance in the series is iconic, and the guide’s enthusiasm made the history come alive. The admission fee grants access to the interior, and you’ll enjoy panoramic views from the ramparts.

Linlithgow Palace

Famous as the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots, Linlithgow Palace is a sprawling ruin with a captivating presence. In Outlander, it’s used to represent Wentworth Prison, where Jamie suffers torture and Black Jack Randall’s cruelty.

While the palace’s exterior was used for the series, some scenes were shot at Bamburgh Castle in Northumberland. The guide pointed out the CGI trickery behind the scenes, which adds an interesting layer for fans. This stop offers a mix of Scottish royal history and series lore, with some extra fee for entry.

Preston Mill & Phantassie Doocot

Our final stops are the Preston Mill and the Phantassie Doocot, both picturesque sites with strong Outlander connections. The mill’s scenes feature Jamie hiding underwater from the Redcoats, creating a dramatic moment in season 1.

The doocot, a pigeon house, adds a charming Scottish rural vibe. Reviewers appreciated how the guide explained the significance of these structures—“Doo” means dove or pigeon, and “cot” is a small house—adding a touch of Scottish dialect. Guided tours are optional and not included, but the scenery alone makes these stops worthwhile.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Personalization and Comfort

This is a private tour, meaning no mixed groups and the chance to customize stops. According to reviews, guides like Alistair make an effort to tailor the day, adding or skipping locations based on your preferences. The air-conditioned vehicle, with WiFi and charging points, keeps you comfortable and connected, which is perfect for sharing your adventure or just relaxing between stops.

Authenticity and Stories

The sites visited are not just tourist spots—they’re real places with histories and stories that enrich your sightseeing. Our guide provided insights into each location’s past and how they were used in Outlander, plus some dark tales of ghosts and former residents, making the experience more than just a photo op.

Value for Money

At $630.52 for up to 7 people, the price might seem steep at first glance, but consider what you’re getting: a full day of private, curated sightseeing, expert guiding, and transport. The real added value comes in the insider knowledge and the chance to visit locations most travelers don’t access easily. Keep in mind, admission to sites is extra, so it’s wise to budget for tickets.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience caters to dedicated Outlander fans eager to see the filming locations in person. It’s also suited to travelers who appreciate Scottish history and want a flexible, intimate experience without the constraints of a large group tour. If you value comfort, personalized attention, and authentic storytelling, this tour offers a high-quality package.

Conversely, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer guided group tours with all fees included upfront, this might not be the best fit. The extra costs for site admissions and the private nature make it more suitable for those seeking a tailored, relaxed day out.

The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

For fans of Outlander and history lovers alike, this private tour blends cinematic locations with authentic Scottish scenery and stories. The guide’s knowledge adds depth, transforming a sightseeing day into a cultural journey. The transport and amenities ensure a comfortable experience, making it suitable for all ages and interests.

The main value lies in the flexibility and exclusivity—no crowds, no rushed visits, just a personalized exploration of some of Scotland’s most stunning and storied sites. While additional costs for entry fees need to be considered, many reviewers find that the overall experience justifies the price.

In summary, if you want a thoughtfully curated day wrapped around Outlander highlights, with the option to add your own interests, this tour should be top of your list.

FAQs

Are the entrance fees to the sites included in the price?
No, the tour price does not include entrance fees. You’ll need to budget extra for tickets to places like Falkland Palace, Culross Palace, Blackness Castle, Doune Castle, and Linlithgow Palace.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate. This allows for personalized stops and a comfortable, exclusive experience.

Can I customize the stops on the tour?
Yes, the guide can tailor the itinerary to your preferences, making it ideal for those who want to focus on specific locations or interests.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel time between sites.

What amenities are provided during the tour?
The vehicle is air-conditioned and equipped with WiFi and charging points for devices. Bottled water is also supplied.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. If you’re interested in Scottish castles, history, or Outlander, this tour is suitable.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 7 George Square, Glasgow, and finishes back at the same point.

What is the best way to book this tour?
Booking is recommended 101 days in advance, and the experience can be canceled free of charge if needed, with at least 24 hours’ notice.

To sum it up, this Outlander Tour offers a fantastic mix of cinematic magic, Scottish history, and personalized comfort, making it a rewarding day out for fans and history enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re keen to walk the same paths as Jamie Fraser or simply enjoy Scotland’s breathtaking scenery with a knowledgeable guide, this experience is well worth considering.