4-Day Outlander Trail Tour from Edinburgh Including Admissions

The 4-Day Outlander Trail Tour from Edinburgh offers an engaging journey through Scotland’s most famous landscapes and historic sites, all tied together by the beloved Outlander series. Priced at $1,014.60 per person, this tour spans approximately 4 days with three nights of accommodation, transport in a luxurious 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, and most entrance fees included. It’s a thoughtfully organized experience designed for fans and history enthusiasts alike, with the added benefit of small group sizes—max 16 travelers—ensuring a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.

This tour is recommended by 97% of participants and features carefully curated stops such as castles, battlefields, and scenic spots, making it a comprehensive exploration of Scotland’s Highlands and historical landmarks. The itinerary covers famous Outlander filming locations as well as authentic sites that highlight Scotland’s past. While the tour involves a fair amount of walking and outdoor exploration, it remains accessible for most travelers, with an emphasis on comfort and smooth logistics.

Key Points

• Includes 3 nights of en-suite accommodation with breakfast in Inverness and Fort William
• Visits popular filming locations like Doune Castle, Blackness Castle, and Culross
• Comfortable transport in a top-of-the-range Mercedes mini-coach with small group size
• Most entrance fees included, such as castles and Culloden Battlefield
• Guides are highly praised for their knowledge, storytelling, and friendliness
• Extra stops at Glencoe, Loch Ness, and Rogie Falls provide scenic and cultural highlights

Start at the Edinburgh Bus Station for a Scenic Highland Journey

The tour departs promptly at 8:45 am from the Edinburgh Bus Station at St Andrew Square. The central location makes it easy to reach via public transportation, though parking can be limited, so arriving early is recommended. The mobile ticket ensures a smooth check-in process.

Over the four days, you’ll travel in a luxurious Mercedes minicoach designed for comfort and small groups, making the experience more intimate than larger bus tours. Luggage restrictions are 14kg per person, roughly one carry-on size bag plus a small personal item, so packing light is advisable.

Exploring Doune Castle and Its Outlander Connections

The journey kicks off with a visit to Doune Castle, where an audio guide highlights its roles in Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Game of Thrones, and Outlander. The 50-minute stop offers a chance to explore the castle’s dramatic setting, walk along nearby trails, or take photographs. The entrance fee is included, removing the hassle of extra tickets.

This castle’s standout feature is its connection to the series, which fans will appreciate, but the surrounding countryside also makes for a pleasant walk or photo opportunity for all participants.

Glencoe: A Landmark of Rugged Beauty and Tragedy

Next, the tour visits Glencoe, famous for its striking slopes and dramatic landscape. Travelers have time for photos and a short walk, soaking in the scenery and learning about its tragic history. The admission is free, but the views speak for themselves, making it a favorite for nature lovers.

The landscape here is ideal for those who enjoy wide-open spaces, with plenty of opportunities to capture memorable images or simply enjoy the tranquility of this historic valley.

Glenfinnan and the Jacobite Connection

In Fort William, visitors enjoy a lunch break and a stroll through the town before heading to Glenfinnan. The monument commemorates Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobite Rising, with Loch Shiel providing a stunning backdrop. The site is notable for the Jacobite Steam Train, known as the Hogwarts Express in Harry Potter, and is a highlight for Outlander fans.

The 30-minute stop offers insight into Scotland’s rebellions while providing picturesque views of historic and cinematic significance. It’s a brief but memorable visit that combines history and scenery.

Inverness: The Highland Capital at Night

The journey concludes at Inverness, often called the Capital of the Highlands. The city’s dark waters of Loch Ness create an atmospheric backdrop, and the area’s charming streets invite exploration. The evening here is free, giving time to enjoy local cuisine or stroll along the River Ness and admire the Inverness Castle.

This stop offers a relaxed end to the day, with options to visit local pubs or simply unwind after a day of travel and sightseeing.

Day 2: Visiting Clan Fraser and Ancient Sites

The second day begins with a visit to the Wardlaw Mausoleum, where the tomb of Lord Lovat—a key figure in Jacobite history—is located. The site offers a quiet moment of reflection on Highland clans and their legendary stories.

From there, the tour explores Glen Affric, known for its lochs, mountains, and ancient pine forests. This glen is perfect for photography and leisurely walks. Nearby, the Corrimony Chambered Cairn, a 4,000-year-old burial site, provides a glimpse into prehistoric Scotland, with its weathered stones inspiring Outlander’s mystical scenes.

A visit to Drumnadrochit includes a lunch break and a chance to see Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness—an iconic ruin that has stood for a thousand years. Nessie sightings are common here, adding an element of fun and intrigue.

Rogie Falls: A Highland Waterfall

The afternoon break at Rogie Falls offers an optional walk to admire the cascading waterfall. Crossing the suspension bridge provides sweeping views of the untamed beauty of this Highland gem, perfect for nature photography. The free admission allows for a casual stop in a stunning setting.

The Battle of Culloden and Ancient Monuments

Day 3 features a poignant visit to Culloden Battlefield, where the final Jacobite Rising culminated. The visitor center and battlefield offer insights into one of Scotland’s most significant conflicts, with 1 hour and 15 minutes allocated for exploration.

Next, the Clava Cairns, a well-preserved ancient site of ring cairns and standing stones, provides a mystical atmosphere. Its reputation as the inspiration for Craigh na Dun’s standing stones makes it a favourite among Outlander fans.

Highland Life at the Folk Museum and Killiecrankie

Traveling through Cairngorms National Park, the tour pauses at Newtonmore Highland Folk Museum, which reconstructs 18th-century Highland life with turf-roofed crofts. This stop offers a tangible connection to Scotland’s past, including scenes from Outlander where Claire and the MacKenzie clan collect rent.

The final stop at Killiecrankie is a serene river gorge that was once the site of a brutal Jacobite battle. The peaceful surroundings contrast with its violent history, leaving a lasting impression.

Day 4: From Falkland to Edinburgh

The last day begins with a quick visit to Falkland, with its cobblestone streets and historic palace, representing 1940s Inverness in the series. The village’s quaint atmosphere is perfect for photos and enjoying a peaceful morning.

Culross, used for the fictional village of Cranesmuir, features historic streets and possibly Claire’s herb garden behind Culross Palace. This village’s preservation makes it a highlight for Outlander fans.

Next, the tour visits Blackness Castle in Linlithgow, known as Wentworth Prison in Outlander, where visitors can walk the ramparts and explore the interior. The nearby Midhope Castle is recognized as Lallybroch, Jamie Fraser’s home—though interiors are studio recreations, sitting on the steps evokes the series’ magic.

The day concludes at Hopetoun House, an 18th-century estate used as a backdrop in various series scenes, including the Duke of Sandringham’s residence. Afterward, the group returns to Edinburgh, arriving in the early evening.

Practical Details and What’s Included

This tour includes 3 nights of en-suite accommodation with breakfast, two in Inverness and one in Fort William. All transportation is conducted in a luxurious Mercedes mini-coach, with small group sizes ensuring plenty of space and personal attention.

Most entrance fees, such as those for Blackness Castle, Doune Castle, Urquhart Castle, and Culloden Battlefield, are covered in the tour price, simplifying planning. Optional visits, like Falkland Palace and Highland Folk Museum, require tickets purchased on-site.

The tour is designed for ages 18 and above, with luggage restrictions of 14kg. While the bus is not wheelchair accessible, storage is available for folding mobility aids, and assistance depends on individual capability.

The Guide and Overall Experience

Multiple reviews praise the guides for their knowledge, storytelling ability, and friendliness. Guides like Willie, Graham, and Simon are highlighted for making the experience engaging and informative, often sharing detailed history along with Outlander insights.

Participants appreciate the small group size, which fosters a more relaxed atmosphere and allows for personalized attention. Many note the variety of sites—from historic castles to scenic waterfalls—makes this tour well-rounded.

While some stops involve walking and outdoor exploration, most sites are accessible, and the pacing is generally considered comfortable. The inclusion of breaks for photos and leisure helps balance the busy itinerary.

Final Thoughts on the Outlander Experience

The 4-Day Outlander Trail Tour from Edinburgh combines a love of the series with genuine Scottish history and scenery. It offers excellent value, with most entrance fees included, and the small-group format ensures a personalized experience.

This tour is ideal for Outlander fans eager to see filming locations and learn about Scotland’s past, but it also appeals to anyone interested in Scottish landscapes, castles, and historical sites. The comfortable transport, knowledgeable guides, and thoughtfully crafted itinerary make for a memorable four days.

Limited availability and a booking window of around 159 days in advance mean early planning is recommended. The combination of scenic beauty, historic depth, and series lore makes this tour a rewarding way to explore Scotland’s Highlands with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the departure point for this tour?
The tour departs from the Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, at 8:45 am each day.

Is parking available near the departure point?
Parking can be challenging in the city center, so using public transportation is recommended.

How much luggage can I bring?
Luggage restrictions are 14kg (31lbs) per person, suitable for a carry-on-sized bag and a small personal item.

Are entrance fees included?
Most major sites like Blackness Castle, Doune Castle, Urquhart Castle, and Culloden Battlefield have their entrance fees included in the tour price. Extras like Falkland Palace or Highland Folk Museum are paid separately if you choose to visit them.

Is the vehicle accessible for wheelchairs?
The Mercedes mini-coach is not wheelchair accessible, but there is storage for folding mobility aids. Guests need to be able to get on and off independently or with assistance.