From Glasgow: Castles, Clans & Outlander Day Tour

Discover the Outlander Magic on a Full-Day Tour from Glasgow

This 9.5-hour small-group tour from Glasgow offers a captivating journey through the legendary locations featured in the hit TV series Outlander. For £260, you’ll visit renowned sites like Doune Castle, Culross, Falkland, Midhope Castle, and Blackness Castle, each tying directly into the show’s storyline and filming history. The tour includes transportation and a local guide who brings the Highland scenery and Outlander lore to life.

While the tour does not include entrance fees to the castles, it provides a well-paced itinerary that balances iconic site visits with opportunities for photos and exploration. Be aware that there are some limitations, such as the absence of audio guides in certain languages, which has been mentioned in a review. This experience appeals most to Outlander fans and history enthusiasts eager to see the show’s most famous locations in person.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Full-day experience lasting approximately 9.5 hours, departing from Buchanan Street Bus Station in Glasgow.
• Visit five key Outlander filming locations, including Doune Castle, Culross, Falkland, Midhope Castle, and Blackness Castle.
• The guided tour features transportation, a local guide, and photo stops at each site.
• Not included are entry fees to castles and food & drink, so plan accordingly.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 5 or wheelchair users and requires comfortable shoes.

Starting Point at Buchanan Street Bus Station in Glasgow

The tour begins at Buchanan Street Bus Station, where guests are advised to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in. The meeting process involves checking the screens for your departure gate. The journey kicks off with a one-hour bus ride heading into the Highlands, setting the tone for an exciting day of Scottish history and scenery.

Visiting Doune Castle: Castle Leoch from Outlander

Your first major stop is Doune Castle, a 14th-century fortress and famous as Castle Leoch in the series. The site offers a one-hour visit where guests can walk through the ancient halls and imagine themselves in the world of Claire and Jamie. This castle was home to Clan MacKenzie and remains a striking example of medieval architecture.

The photo stop here is ideal for capturing the castle’s impressive structure. The tour emphasizes the castle’s significance both historically and for Outlander fans, making it a highlight of the day.

Exploring Culross: Cranesmuir in the Show

Next, the tour moves to Culross, a charming village that served as the fictional Cranesmuir in Outlander. Free time of about 70 minutes allows visitors to stroll through cobbled streets and soak up the 18th-century ambiance. The quaint buildings and historic atmosphere make it a perfect setting for photos.

A special feature is Claire’s herb garden, which adds a touch of authenticity and magic. Walking through Culross offers a glimpse into the show’s period setting and the real-world charm of a Scottish village.

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Falkland and the Ghost of Jamie in Inverness

A 45-minute drive takes visitors to Falkland, a town that doubled as 1940s Inverness in the series. The town’s picturesque streets set the scene for many of the show’s scenes, including the moment where Jamie’s ghost first appears.

Guests have 1.5 hours for free time here, with plenty of opportunities to explore, take photos at the Bruce Fountain, and imagine the series’ suspenseful moments. Falkland’s blend of history and atmosphere makes it a memorable stop.

Exploring Lallybroch at Midhope Castle

The next highlight is Midhope Castle, known as Lallybroch, Jamie’s beloved family estate. While the interior remains in ruins, the grounds are open for exploration during a 30-minute visit. It’s an ideal spot for photos and to appreciate the show’s setting in a scenic, rural environment.

This stop offers a chance to step into Jamie’s world, with the castle standing as a symbol of his roots and family history. The grounds present a peaceful backdrop ideal for a quick walk and picture-taking.

Fort William and Blackness Castle

The final filming locations include Blackness Castle, used as Fort William in the series. The photo stop and visit last about one hour, providing sweeping views over the Firth of Forth. This site is notable for its dramatic setting and historic fortress architecture.

The journey back to Glasgow involves a one-hour bus ride, concluding the tour with time to recall the day’s highlights. The views from Blackness Castle are especially striking and help cap off the Outlander-inspired adventure.

Practical Details and Group Experience

The tour is led by a local guide who shares stories about the sites and their connections to Outlander. The guide’s expertise enriches the experience, providing context and historical details. The tour features live English narration and offers an audio guide in multiple languages including German, Chinese, Portuguese, Italian, Spanish, and French.

Guests should bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing. The tour does not include entry fees to any castles, and food & drink are not provided, so packing snacks or planning lunch is recommended.

The group size is small, enhancing the personalized experience, but the tour is not suitable for children under 5 or wheelchair users. Travelers are advised to organize their transport to Glasgow’s meeting point and arrive at least 15 minutes early.

Considerations Based on Feedback

A notable review mentions the absence of audio guides in Spanish, even though the tour was paid for almost £260 per person. This highlights that while the tour offers a comprehensive visual experience, some amenities like language-specific guides may be limited, and travelers should be prepared for potential variability.

The Sum Up: A Scenic and Cinematic Day in Scotland

This Outlander-themed day tour from Glasgow offers fans and history buffs a chance to see some of Scotland’s most scenic sites and iconic filming locations. The well-paced itinerary balances guided commentary, free exploration time, and breathtaking views, making it a rewarding experience.

While the lack of included castle entry fees and some limitations with audio guides are considerations, the main draw remains the chance to walk through the worlds of Claire and Jamie and envision scenes from the beloved series. The tour especially suits those eager to combine Scottish history, beautiful landscapes, and series lore into a single day trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, entry to Midhope Castle, Blackness Castle, and Doune Castle are not included and need to be paid separately if desired.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9.5 hours, including travel time, site visits, and breaks.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 5 or wheelchair users.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Does the tour include a guide?
Yes, a local guide leads the tour, offering insights and storytelling.

Are audio guides available in different languages?
Yes, audio guides are available in German, Chinese, Portuguese, Italian, Spanish, and French.

What time does the tour start?
Start times vary; check availability when booking.

Is food included?
No, food and drink are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase lunch during free time.

Where does the tour finish?
The tour concludes back at Buchanan Street Bus Station in Glasgow.

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