From Edinburgh: 1-day Outlander Tour – attractions included

Explore Borders and Castles on a 1-Day Outlander Tour from Edinburgh

This 9-hour Outlander-themed tour from Edinburgh offers a well-paced journey through some of Scotland’s most iconic and cinematic locations. Priced at $98.91 per person, it combines visits to historic ruins, grand castles, and scenic villages, all while providing insightful guides and included admissions. The tour departs at 9:00 am from 192 High St, Edinburgh, and returns to the city in the early evening.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on the Outlander series’ filming locations, blended with rich Scottish history. It’s perfect for fans of the series and history enthusiasts alike. The inclusion of Alnwick Castle, made famous in the Harry Potter movies, adds a cinematic flair that appeals to a broad audience. The tour is highly rated, with 27 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, and over 96% of participants recommend it.

While the tour covers many sites, it’s important to note that food and drinks are not included, and the stops vary in length, making it best suited for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing. The group size is capped at 16 travelers, ensuring a personal experience with an engaging driver-guide.

Key Points

• Visit iconic Outlander filming locations like Falkland, Doune Castle, and Midhope Castle.
• Explore Alnwick Castle, famous from Harry Potter, with an optional tour of its grand interiors and gardens.
• Discover Melrose Abbey, burial site of Robert the Bruce’s heart, and Callendar House, a historic mansion with views of the Antonine Wall.
• Includes all admission fees and round-trip transportation from Edinburgh.
• Tour duration is approximately 9 hours, departing at 9:00 am, with plenty of time for photos and exploration.
• The tour is suited to those interested in Scottish history, Outlander fans, and cinema enthusiasts.

Starting Point and Transportation Logistics

This tour begins at 192 High St, Edinburgh, providing easy access near public transportation. It includes an air-conditioned vehicle with panoramic windows, offering comfortable and scenic travel between sites. The tour ends at 22 St Andrew Sq, Edinburgh, making it convenient for exploring the city afterward or continuing your day.

The small group size of up to 16 travelers fosters a more intimate experience, allowing for better engagement with the guide and personalized attention. The driver-guide has received praise for their friendliness, humor, and extensive knowledge, particularly highlighted in reviews that mention their entertaining storytelling and historical insights.

Visiting Falkland and Doune Castle: Films and History

The tour’s first stop is the picturesque village of Falkland, renowned for its 1940s Inverness scenes in Outlander. Wandering through its cobbled streets and 17th-century buildings feels like stepping into the series’ world. The Bruce Fountain, where Frank first encounters Jamie’s ghost, is a notable highlight. The 30-minute visit offers enough time to soak in the village’s cinematic charm.

Next, the Doune Castle, known as Castle Loech in Outlander and featuring in Game of Thrones and Monty Python and the Holy Grail, impresses with its 14th-century architecture. Visitors can explore the grand hall and climb the towers for panoramic views of the River Teith. Admission is included, and the hour-long stop allows ample opportunity to appreciate its historical significance and film connections.

Exploring Callendar House and the Antonine Wall

The Callendar House stop in Falkirk provides a glimpse into Scottish social and industrial history. The elegant mansion, also seen as the Duke of Sandringham’s kitchen in Outlander, features engaging displays and stunning grounds, including a portion of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Antonine Wall. The 1.5-hour visit offers enough time to explore the interior exhibits and walk through the lush gardens, with admission included.

This site appeals to history buffs who enjoy blending cinematic scenery with tangible heritage. The grounds are particularly scenic, adding a peaceful, reflective element to the day’s itinerary.

Midhope Castle: The Fictional Lallybroch

For Outlander fans, Midhope Castle is a highlight, recognized as Lallybroch, Jamie Fraser’s family home. Although the interior is not open to the public, the exterior remains a powerful symbol for series enthusiasts. Visitors can walk around the grounds, take memorable photos, and feel connected to the beloved series.

The 30-minute stop ensures ample time to appreciate the castle’s rustic charm and take in the scenery, even if filming schedules mean access to the interior might sometimes be limited. It’s a must-see for those wanting to connect visually with the series’ setting.

Hopetoun House and Its Outlander Connection

Hopetoun House offers a grand view of Scottish aristocratic architecture, serving as the Duke of Sandringham’s residence in Outlander. The stately interiors and lush grounds are perfect for photography, and the estate’s deer park transforms into the French countryside in the series. The 1-hour visit includes entrance fees to the grounds, with an option to upgrade to tour the house itself.

Its impressive red sandstone exterior and scenic surroundings, including views of the River Forth, make Hopetoun House a memorable stop. It’s especially appealing for fans who enjoy cinematic landscapes and historic architecture.

Optional Alnwick Castle Tour and Gardens

The highlight for many is the optional tour of Alnwick Castle, made famous in the Harry Potter films. The castle’s grand salons, underground cellars, and extensive gardens provide an immersive experience. Visitors can learn to fly like a wizard or explore the stunning grounds, which are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

The 1-hour visit at Alnwick is flexible for those wanting to see the castle’s exterior or pay for an upgraded tour of its interiors. The castle’s size and variety mean that visitors can spend several hours here, and it’s often praised for its cinematic appeal and beautiful setting.

The Experience of the Guided Tour

The driver-guides are frequently praised for their knowledge, personality, and entertaining storytelling. Reviews highlight their ability to share Scottish history, film trivia, and local anecdotes in a friendly manner. The tour’s small group setup facilitates interaction and makes for an engaging day.

All admission fees are included, so there are no surprises about extra costs. The air-conditioned vehicle with panoramic windows ensures comfort and great views as the group travels between sites. The timing is well-managed, with enough time at each stop to explore without feeling rushed.

Practical Details and Booking

The tour operates with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, providing peace of mind. It is suitable for most travelers, with children over 3 years allowed and service animals permitted. The tour runs most days, with bookings generally made 60 days in advance.

Costing $98.91, this tour offers good value considering the included admissions, transportation, and guided commentary. It is ideal for those who want a comprehensive day trip that combines cinematic sites, historic landmarks, and scenic Scottish landscapes without the hassle of driving.

The Final Word on the Edinburgh Borders and Castles Tour

This outstanding 1-day tour from Edinburgh provides a balanced mix of cinematic locations, historic sites, and beautiful scenery. Its focus on Outlander filming locations makes it especially appealing to series fans, while the inclusion of Alnwick Castle and Bannockburn broadens its appeal.

The expert guides, comfortable transport, and well-organized itinerary earn high praise, making it a reliable choice for a memorable day trip. If you enjoy exploring Scottish castles, filming locations, and history, this tour delivers a satisfying and engaging experience.

While it involves a full day of sightseeing, the small group size and included admissions ensure a smooth and enriching journey. It’s a smart pick for anyone seeking a packed, culturally rich, and cinematic adventure just outside Edinburgh.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, departing at 9:00 am and returning in the early evening.

Are meals included in the price?
No, food and drinks are not included, so it’s recommended to bring snacks or plan for lunch during free time at the stops.

Can children participate in this tour?
Yes, children over 3 years old are allowed, provided they are accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for most age groups.

Is there an option to upgrade the Alnwick Castle visit?
Yes, you can choose to upgrade your ticket for a more extensive tour of the castle’s interiors, though the standard visit includes the exterior and gardens.

What makes this tour unique compared to other Edinburgh day trips?
Its focus on Outlander filming locations, combined with visits to historic castles and scenic villages, offers a cinema and history combo that appeals to a wide range of interests.