2-Day Outlander Experience Small Group Tour from Edinburgh

Explore Outlander Filming Locations in the Scottish Highlands

The 2-Day Outlander Experience Small Group Tour from Edinburgh offers dedicated fans and curious travelers a chance to step into the world of the popular TV series. Priced at $343.15 per person, this tour spans approximately two days, covering iconic filming sites and historic landmarks. With a small group of up to 16 travelers, the experience feels intimate and personalized, led by professional guides with extensive Scottish knowledge.

This tour departs from 1 Parliament Square in Edinburgh at 9:00 am and includes overnight accommodation in Inverness. Its well-curated itinerary ensures visitors see the most recognizable Outlander spots while exploring some of Scotland’s stunning scenery. The tour also emphasizes comfort, with air-conditioned transportation and included entrance fees for two castles, making it a seamless way to dive into the series’ backdrop.

While the tour is highly praised for its knowledgeable guides and scenic stops, it’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included and some attractions may close unexpectedly, such as Midhope Castle during filming dates or in winter. Still, this experience appeals strongly to Outlander fans and those interested in Scottish history, seeking an engaging and well-organized trip from Edinburgh.

Key Points

• Price: $343.15 per person, with bookings made on average 86 days in advance
• Duration: 2 days, including overnight in Inverness
• Highlights: Filming locations like Midhope Castle, Doune Castle, Blackness Castle, and Glencoe
• Transport: Travel by air-conditioned Mercedes mini-bus with a professional driver-guide
• Inclusions: Entrance to Doune and Midhope Castles, breakfast, and live commentary
• Who this is for: Fans of Outlander series, history enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a comfortable tour exploring the Scottish Highlands

Starting Point and Transportation Details in Edinburgh

The tour begins at 1 Parliament Square in the heart of Edinburgh, with public transport access nearby. It operates with a small group maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring a relaxed pace and opportunities for questions. The air-conditioned Mercedes mini-bus makes traveling between stops comfortable, even during warmer months or rainy weather.

Guides lead the group with live commentary, sharing insights into the filming locations and the history behind each site. The group size helps foster a friendly atmosphere, and punctuality is emphasized, with the tour starting promptly at 9:00 am.

Day 1: Iconic Castles and Scenic Glen Coe

The first day showcases some of Scotland’s most photogenic sites intertwined with Outlander filming scenes. The tour stops at Midhope Castle, the fictional Lallybroch, where entrance is included, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace.

Next, the group visits Blackness Castle, which served as the film set for Fort William, a key location involving scenes with Jamie and Black Jack Randall. This castle, known as “the ship that never sailed”, is built in the 15th century and is situated on the southern Firth of Forth shore. Visitors can walk around, though admission is not included for this site.

Doune Castle follows, renowned for its role as Castle Leoch. With one hour allocated, the group explores the impressive medieval fortress and learns about its history and connection to the series. The tour includes admission, making this stop particularly engaging.

In the afternoon, the scenic Glencoe region appears, recognized from the opening credits of Outlander. Although only 15 minutes are scheduled here, the location’s dramatic landscape leaves a lasting impression.

The day concludes with a visit to the Loch Ness Region, where the group gets a brief glimpse of the famous Loch Ness and the chance to spot Nessie, the legendary monster. This 15-minute stop offers photo opportunities and a sense of Scottish myth.

Day 2: From Clava Cairns to Inverness Nightlife

The second day begins with a visit to Clava Cairns, a prehistoric site inspiring Claire’s time-traveling journey. The 30-minute stop is free of charge, allowing for a peaceful exploration of the ancient stone arrangements.

Next, the tour visits Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last pitched battle on British soil. Travelers can explore the battlefield freely, with 1 hour and 30 minutes allocated. An optional upgrade to the visitor center is available for those interested in deeper insights.

Following Culloden, the group visits the Highland Folk Museum, a living history museum that served as an ideal setting for Outlander scenes. Although admission is not included, the 1-hour stop is a favorite for fans eager to see authentic Highland life.

The charming village of Falkland marks a highlight as the 1940s Inverness stand-in, where Claire and Frank begin their story. The cobbled streets and Covenanter Hotel—featured as Mrs. Baird’s B&B—are free for visitors to walk and photograph.

The final stop is the picturesque Culross, a well-preserved 17th-century village representing Cranesmuir, home to Geillis Duncan. The Culross Palace features in iconic scenes and is free to explore, rounding out the series of filming location visits.

Practicalities and Accommodation in Inverness

Included in the tour price is overnight accommodation in Inverness, with a breakfast provided. The stay offers an opportunity to relax and enjoy Inverness’s local charm, with options for dining and exploring the town’s nightlife, as noted by a review praising the good food and lively music scene.

The basic logistics include luggage restrictions of 15kg maximum weight and 55cm x 40cm x 20cm in size, making packing straightforward. Guests should bring suitable outdoor footwear and weather-appropriate clothing, as weather in Scotland can change unexpectedly.

Guides and Customer Experience

Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ extensive knowledge, with guides such as Brodie, Graham, Neil, Steven B., and Keith receiving particular praise for their friendly, engaging, and informative approach. Reviewers mention that guides recommended must-see sites, shared enriching historical context, and made the tour feel personal and fun.

The small group size fosters a comfortable environment, and many reviewers appreciate the well-paced itinerary, allowing enough time at each stop without feeling rushed. The live commentary adds depth, especially for those unfamiliar with Scottish history or the series’ fictional universe.

Value for Money and Booking Considerations

Despite some attractions being not included in the price, such as the Blackness Castle admission, the overall package offers good value considering the included entrance fees, overnight stay, breakfast, and guided expertise.

The tour is typically booked around 86 days in advance, indicating strong interest and popularity. Cancellation is flexible, allowing full refunds if canceled more than 6 days before the start date.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 2-day Outlander experience suits dedicated fans eager to see key filming locations and learn about Scottish history in a relaxed setting. It also appeals to those who appreciate comfortable transportation, small group sizes, and insider insights from guides passionate about the series and Scotland.

Travelers with limited mobility should note the walking involved at sites like Culross and Falkland, but overall, most participants find the pace manageable. Weather protection and suitable footwear are advisable for outdoor exploration.

The Sum Up: An Engaging Journey into Outlander and Scottish Highlands

The 2-Day Outlander Experience Small Group Tour from Edinburgh offers a well-organized, immersive way to see the most iconic filming locations and historic sites in Scotland’s Highlands. The expert guides and comfortable transport create a pleasant and informative trip, ideal for fans and history enthusiasts alike.

While the cost includes key castle entrances and accommodation, visitors should plan for some additional attraction fees and meals. The scenic stops, charming villages, and legendary landscape make this tour a rewarding way to experience Scotland beyond Edinburgh, with a special focus on the world of Outlander.

For those seeking a personalized, fun-packed two days exploring film sets and Scottish history, this tour delivers on both entertainment and education, with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and meaningful stories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included; guests can buy meals during stops or in Inverness.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 6 days before are non-refundable.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 16 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and personal experience.

Is accommodation in Inverness included?
Yes, overnight stay in Inverness with breakfast is included in the price.

Are all filming locations accessible?
Most sites are accessible, but some, like Midhope Castle, may close unexpectedly, especially during filming or winter months.

What should I bring?
Bring outdoor footwear, weather-appropriate clothing, and a small bag for personal items, respecting luggage restrictions of 15kg maximum.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children under 3 years are not accepted.

Are guides knowledgeable about Scottish history?
Yes, guides are praised for their extensive knowledge about Scottish history, film sites, and the Outlander series.