From Edinburgh: “Outlander” Filming Locations Explorer Tour

Explore Scotland’s Outlander Filming Sites with a Guided Tour from Edinburgh

This full-day Outlander filming locations tour from Edinburgh offers a chance to walk in the footsteps of Jamie and Claire, the beloved characters from the hit series. Priced at $86 per person and lasting about 9 hours, the tour takes you through some of the most iconic sites in Northern Scotland, guided by knowledgeable local experts.

We appreciate how this tour combines stunning scenery with history and TV magic, making it ideal for Outlander fans and history enthusiasts alike. While Midhope Castle is included, note that it may be replaced with Linlithgow Palace during certain times of the year due to seasonal closures. The tour’s well-paced itinerary and engaging guides make it a reliable choice for a full day of Scottish adventure.

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Key Points

• Visit multiple Outlander filming locations including Blackness Castle, Culross, Falkland, and Doune Castle
• Learn about Scottish history and legends from experienced guides
• Includes entry to Doune Castle and optional access to Midhope Castle and Blackness Castle
• Depart from Edinburgh and explore the Kingdom of Fife and scenic villages
• Tour duration is around 9 hours, with time for photos, sightseeing, and exploration
• Price is $86 per person, with free cancellation available

Starting Point and Transportation Logistics in Edinburgh

The tour kicks off at Highland Explorer Tours headquarters in Edinburgh, where travelers meet and check in with the staff. Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned minibus, ensuring a comfortable ride throughout the day. The group departs early in the morning, allowing ample time to visit all the major sites on the itinerary.

The return trip to Edinburgh is relaxed, giving visitors a chance to unwind and reflect on the day’s highlights. The group size tends to be manageable, fostering a friendly atmosphere where questions and stories are encouraged. The meeting and ending points are the same, making logistics simple for travelers staying in Edinburgh.

Visiting Midhope Castle: The Exterior of Lallybroch

The first major stop is Midhope Castle, the exterior location of Lallybroch, Claire and Jamie’s home in the series. This photo stop lasts about 30 minutes, giving plenty of opportunity to snap pictures of the castle’s picturesque ruins.

Although entry to the interior is optional and not included, the outside view alone provides a satisfying glimpse into the series’ filming backdrop. It’s important to note that Midhope is seasonally closed from December to March 2025, and may be substituted with Linlithgow Palace for exterior views during closures. Travelers should plan accordingly if they wish to get closer to the castle.

Doune Castle: Monty Python and Outlander’s Winterfell

Next, the tour visits Doune Castle, a site famous for its role as Castle Leoch in Outlander and as Winterfell in Game of Thrones. The one-hour stop offers both photo opportunities and guided sightseeing, with options to explore the interior if desired.

This castle’s medieval architecture and strategic location make it a highlight for history buffs. The guide provides insights into its past, making the visit both visually impressive and educational. Visitors have the choice to enter the castle or simply admire it from the outside.

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Exploring Culross: The 17th-Century Scottish Town

Culross, a well-preserved 17th-century burgh, serves as the setting for Cranesmuir, where Claire faces accusations of witchcraft. The one-hour visit includes a chance to stroll through cobblestone streets, admire historic buildings, and understand how this village remains a prime example of old Scottish architecture.

This site offers a quaint, step-back-in-time atmosphere and plenty of photo opportunities. The guide shares stories that bring the town’s history and its role in Outlander vividly to life.

Falkland Village: 1940s Inverness and Architectural Gems

The charming village of Falkland is used as the 1940s Inverness in the series. With 28 listed buildings, Falkland showcases Scottish architectural heritage, and the 45-minute visit allows ample time to explore its streets and appreciate its historic character.

Walking through Falkland provides a sense of stepping back into the period when the series is set, with plenty of photo spots and opportunities to admire the well-preserved buildings.

Blackness Castle: The Fort William Setting

The historic Blackness Castle stands on a strategic promontory overlooking Blackness Bay. During the 55-minute stop, visitors can walk around the exterior and learn about its military history and use in Outlander as Fort William.

The castle’s imposing structure and scenic surroundings make it a memorable highlight. Though interior entry is not included, the exterior views and legendary stories about the castle’s strategic importance add depth to the visit.

Scenic Drive Through the Kingdom of Fife

Between stops, the tour takes a 45-minute drive through the Kingdom of Fife, an area rich in history. The guide shares stories about the region’s importance, giving context for the villages visited later. The journey itself offers beautiful views of the Scottish countryside, adding to the overall experience.

The Storytelling Style of Guides and Local Legends

The guides on this tour are highly praised for their knowledge and storytelling abilities. Many reviews highlight guides like Tim, Cara, Heidi, and Connor as informative, engaging, and humorous. They share Scottish legends, historical facts, and funny anecdotes, making the day both educational and entertaining.

Several reviews mention the guides’ ability to weave Outlander facts with Scottish history, creating a personalized experience that feels both authentic and lively.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Day

The tour advises travelers to bring their passport or ID, as identification may be necessary for castle visits. It’s also recommended to reserve and pay later to keep plans flexible.

Food and drinks are not included, so packing snacks is a good idea. The tour is not suitable for children under age 5, and early arrival is suggested to avoid cold weather or long waits before departure.

Overall Value and Suitability

At $86 per person, this tour offers good value considering the number of locations visited and the expertise of the guides. The 9-hour duration balances sightseeing with comfortable pacing, making it suitable for those interested in TV locations, Scottish history, and scenic drives.

While some castles may be closed during certain days, the tour adjusts by substituting sites, maintaining the experience’s quality. The ability to explore multiple iconic sites in one day makes this tour particularly appealing for Outlander fans and history lovers.

Final Thoughts on the Outlander Locations Tour from Edinburgh

This full-day guided tour provides an engaging look into Scotland’s landscapes, castles, and series filming locations. The well-organized itinerary and knowledgeable guides make it a dependable choice for a rich, scenic day trip from Edinburgh.

The mix of legend, history, and TV magic will delight Outlander fans, while the scenic drives and historic sites appeal broadly. It’s a good-value tour that balances entertainment and education, making it worth considering for a memorable Scottish adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided for this tour?
Yes, transportation is by air-conditioned minibus, included in the package.

Are entry tickets to castles included?
Entry to Doune Castle is included. Entry to Midhope Castle is optional and may be substituted with Linlithgow Palace if Midhope is closed. Blackness Castle entry is optional, depending on the day.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours from start to finish, with scheduled stops and sightseeing.

Can I visit the interiors of the castles?
Entry to Doune Castle is included; for Midhope Castle and Blackness Castle, visiting interiors is optional and not included in the base price.

Are children allowed on this tour?
The tour is not suitable for children under 5 years old.

What should I bring?
Travelers should bring passport or ID, and snacks if desired, as food and drinks are not included.

Is this tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
The data does not specify accessibility details; it’s advised to check directly with the provider for specific needs.

How flexible is the booking?
Booking can be cancelled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind.

What language is the tour guide available in?
The tour is conducted in English, with optional audio guides available in Chinese, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Would this tour suit someone who isn’t a big Outlander fan?
Yes, the scenic and historical aspects make it appealing even without prior series knowledge, though Outlander fans will especially enjoy the locations.

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