Outlander Walking Tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town

If you’re a fan of the Outlander series—whether the books or the TV adaptation—this walking tour promises a chance to step directly into the scenes that captured your imagination. Set in Edinburgh’s atmospheric Old Town, this 1.5-hour guided adventure takes you to the locations featured in the series, all while weaving in stories about Edinburgh’s past, especially around the Jacobite uprisings. What makes this tour stand out is its small group size, which means you get personal attention and richer commentary, alongside the chance to explore parts of the city most travelers miss.

One of the things we really appreciate about this experience is the knowledgeable guides. They don’t just point out pretty spots—they bring history and storytelling to life, making each location feel more meaningful. That said, a potential consideration is the timing—some reviews mention that if you do this tour in winter or fall, it might be during hours when natural lighting is limited, and certain sites may be less visually impressive once it’s dark.

This tour suits Outlander fans eager to see filming locations and history buffs interested in Edinburgh’s stories. It’s also ideal if you want a more intimate, engaging way to discover Edinburgh’s Old Town, rather than the usual rushed sightseeing.

Key Points

• Authentic Outlander Locations: The tour hits key filming spots from both the TV series and the novels, making it perfect for fans.
• Expert Guides: Guides are well-versed in both Outlander lore and Edinburgh’s history, adding depth to your visit.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to no more than 12 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• In-Depth Historical Context: Learn about Edinburgh’s past, especially during the Jacobite uprisings, enriching your understanding of the city.
• Walks Through Hidden Corners: Explore parts of the Old Town that are often missed by larger tours, offering a more authentic feel.
• Cost and Value: At $404.42 per group (up to 8), this is a reasonably priced experience considering the personalized service and exclusive access.

Exploring Edinburgh’s Old Town Through Outlander’s Lens

This tour is a carefully curated walk through Edinburgh’s historic streets, but with a particular focus on places that Outlander fans will recognize instantly. The experience begins at St Giles’ Cathedral, a landmark that’s been part of Edinburgh’s skyline for centuries. While the tour doesn’t include admission here, the guide quickly shares the role of the cathedral in film scenes and its significance in the city’s religious history.

Next, you’ll visit the John Knox House Museum. Here, the guide highlights its relevance both historically and in the series—particularly the close used for the reunion scene with Claire and Fergus. Many visitors appreciated the insights from guides like Sam, who, according to reviews, provides a wealth of information about the series and Edinburgh’s past. One reviewer states, “She provided us with a lot of information about the Outlander series and the historical background of Edinburgh,” underscoring the tour’s educational value.

The highlight for many is the stop at Bakehouse Close, a charming alley that doubles as a filming location for the printshop scenes. The guide points out the steps where Jamie’s printshop was portrayed and shares the behind-the-scenes tidbits that fans love. This location alone offers a tangible connection to the series and a taste of Edinburgh’s atmospheric medieval streets.

From here, the tour moves to Palace of Holyroodhouse, a site steeped in history. While the tour doesn’t include entry, the guide discusses Bonnie Prince Charlie’s time there and how the palace features in the books. One reviewer noted that despite some limitations, the tour “tells us about both Outlander filming sites as well as about historic facts,” which adds layers to the experience.

The final stop is Canongate Kirk, a historic church that plays a role in the series’ storyline, especially in the novels. The guide shares stories about what happened here, enriching your understanding of its importance both historically and within the Outlander narrative.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

While the price point of roughly $404 for up to 8 people might seem steep at first glance, it’s important to consider what’s included. You’re paying not just for the locations but also for the expertise of your guide and the intimate atmosphere. The small group size means you get more personalized storytelling—many reviews highlight guides like Sam and Peak as being knowledgeable and engaging.

Another big plus is the focus on both the filming locations and the historical settings, giving a well-rounded experience. If you’re a fan who wants to see the real Edinburgh behind the series, this offers a good blend of scenery, storytelling, and history. Keep in mind that transportation to and from attractions isn’t included, so planning your day accordingly is necessary.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: St Giles’ Cathedral

• What’s special: A prominent Edinburgh landmark with gothic architecture and a central location. While not a filming site, it’s essential to set the scene for your journey through the Old Town.
• What you’ll learn: Its role in the city’s religious and cultural history, plus some insights into how it’s connected to the series filming locations.

Stop 2: John Knox House Museum

• What’s special: A historic house associated with the Protestant Reformation, but also a filming backdrop for the reunion scene with Claire and Fergus.
• Experience: The guide explains the proximity of the house to other key locations and shares fun facts about Edinburgh’s past as a hub of religious upheaval.

Stop 3: Bakehouse Close

• What’s special: A picturesque alley that doubles as a film location, showcasing Edinburgh’s medieval charm.
• Experience: You’ll see the steps where Jamie’s printshop scenes were shot, and learn about the filming process. Some reviews mention this as a highlight, appreciating how the location feels authentic.

Stop 4: Palace of Holyroodhouse

• What’s special: The Queen’s official residence in Scotland, but also a site of interest for Outlander fans due to Bonnie Prince Charlie’s association.
• Experience: The guide shares stories about the palace’s history and its role in the series’ storyline, even if visitors don’t go inside.

Stop 5: Canongate Kirk

• What’s special: A historic church with a storybook setting, important in the novels.
• Experience: Insights into what happened here in both history and fiction, adding depth to the visit.

Authentic Insights from Past Participants

One reviewer remarked that the guide, Sam, “provided us with a lot of information about both the Outlander series and the historical background of Edinburgh,” making the tour educational and engaging. Others appreciated the small-group setting, which meant less rushing and more interaction—ideal for fans wanting to ask questions and dive deeper into the stories behind the locations.

Some criticisms include the timing—one person mentioned that a 7 PM start during winter meant darkness obscured some views of Holyrood. That’s an important consideration if you’re visiting during the shorter days of fall or winter, as certain sights may be less visually striking after sunset.

Practical Tips for Your Outlander Tour

• Dress for the weather: The tour operates in all weather conditions, so layers, waterproof jackets, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Timing: Check the start time and consider seasonality; earlier in the day might offer better lighting, especially in winter.
• Group size: Expect a small group of no more than 12, making the experience more personal.
• Cost considerations: While the fee might seem high, it’s a comprehensive experience combining film locations, history, and storytelling.
• No transportation needed: The walk is entirely on foot within Edinburgh’s Old Town, making it accessible and easy to fit into a day’s sightseeing.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Outlander walking tour is a clever choice for fans who want to see the series’ filming locations in a setting that’s both intimate and informative. You’ll enjoy guides who bring a mix of historical knowledge and series lore, making each stop meaningful. It’s also a great way to explore Edinburgh’s atmospheric Old Town, especially if you prefer walking and small-group experiences over crowded big tours.

Ideal for travelers with a keen interest in Outlander and Scottish history alike, this tour offers a deeper connection to the series’ storylines and the city’s past. If you’re looking for a personalized, authentic exploration of Edinburgh’s filming sites paired with insightful commentary, this experience will likely meet your expectations.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and most travelers can participate. However, the focus on historical and series details is better suited for older children or teens who enjoy the series.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a manageable walking experience without feeling rushed.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Yes, the tour operates with a mobile ticket, and booking in advance ensures availability, especially during peak seasons.

Are there any food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to eat before or after the tour.

What is the starting point?
The tour begins at St Giles’ Cathedral on High Street, Edinburgh.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

In summary, the Outlander Walking Tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town offers a thoughtful blend of film location sightseeing and historical storytelling. With knowledgeable guides, small groups, and authentic sites, it’s a rewarding choice for fans and curious explorers alike. Whether you’re tracing Jamie Fraser’s steps or uncovering Edinburgh’s hidden corners, this tour promises a memorable glimpse into both the fictional and real history of Scotland’s capital.