Outlander Film Locations Day Trip from Edinburgh

Key Points

• Full-day tour from Edinburgh lasting approximately 9.5 hours with visits to iconic filming sites.
• Highlights include Doune Castle, Culross, Falkland, and Blackness Castle, with optional admission.
• Expert guides share stories about Outlander actors, filming, and Scottish history.
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned coach with a small group size—max 16 travelers.
• Tickets are best booked 70 days in advance at a price of $89.22 per person.
• Includes visits to well-preserved castles and charming villages, perfect for Outlander fans and history enthusiasts.

Discover the Full-Day Outlander Experience from Edinburgh

The Outlander Film Locations Day Trip from Edinburgh offers an immersive experience into Scotland’s scenic landscapes and historic castles, all while reliving scenes from the hit TV series. Priced at $89.22 per person, this tour lasts around 9 hours and 30 minutes and is designed for fans eager to see the real-life settings behind the beloved series. With 97% recommendation based on over 1,200 reviews, it’s a popular choice booked well in advance—on average, 70 days ahead.

This tour features visits to renowned film locations like Doune Castle, Culross, Falkland, and Blackness Castle, with optional admission to some sites. The small group size—maximum 16 travelers—ensures a personalized experience, guided by knowledgeable hosts who share stories about actors, filming sets, and the area’s Scottish heritage. A mobile ticket system makes access straightforward, and the air-conditioned coach keeps comfort high throughout the day.

While the trip is ideal for passionate Outlander fans and those interested in Scottish castles, it also offers captivating views and stories for anyone keen on Scottish history or scenic landscapes. Keep in mind, admission to certain castles is not included unless you opt for the upgrade, and some locations may be substituted if closed during filming seasons.

Key Points

• Comprehensive full-day tour covering all major Outlander filming spots from Edinburgh.
• Expert guides provide detailed stories about Scottish locations, castles, and the Outlander series.
• Visits to Doune Castle, Culross, Falkland, and Blackness Castle with flexible options for entrance fees.
• Small groups maximize interaction and comfort, with up to 16 travelers.
• Book early to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons or when locations are highly popular.

Starting at the Historic Royal Mile

The journey begins at Highland Explorer Tours, located at 60 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1TB. The tour departs promptly at 8:45 am, giving ample time to explore Scotland’s countryside and historic landmarks. The meeting point’s proximity to public transportation makes it accessible, and it’s wise to arrive at least 15 minutes early for check-in.

The tour ends back at the Royal Mile, providing a convenient location for onward exploration or returning to accommodations. The full-day schedule allows for a relaxed pace, with scheduled stops for sightseeing, food, and photo opportunities.

Exploring the Castles and Villages of Outlander

Midhope Castle, aka Lallybroch

The tour kicks off at Midhope Castle, known as Lallybroch on-screen—a beloved location for Outlander fans. Although admission is not included, visitors can enjoy the exterior views of this historic tower house, which is the home of Jamie Fraser. The stop lasts about 30 minutes, making it a quick but meaningful photo opportunity.

Doune Castle: Castle Leoch in Outlander

Next, the coach heads to Doune Castle, one of Scotland’s best-preserved medieval castles. This site doubles as Castle Leoch, an essential filming location. Visitors are encouraged to explore the castle’s historic walls during about an hour at this stop. Again, admission is not included but can be purchased at check-in if desired. The castle’s well-maintained rooms and battlements offer an authentic medieval ambiance.

Culross Village: Cranesmuir and Scottish Heritage

In the historic Kingdom of Fife, the tour visits Culross, the picturesque village where Claire faces witchcraft accusations. Known as Cranesmuir in the series, this well-preserved 17th and 18th-century burgh offers cobbled streets and traditional buildings. The stop here lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving ample time to walk through the village and soak in its old-world charm. Since the area is admission-free, visitors can freely explore without extra charges.

Falkland Village: Inverness and 1940s Scotland

After lunch (at your own expense), the tour proceeds to Falkland, a village used for filming Inverness scenes. With over 28 listed buildings, Falkland authentically represents a 1940s Scottish town. The stop lasts about 45 minutes, providing a good chance to stroll through and take photos. The village remains admission-free, making it accessible for all.

Blackness Castle: Fort William’s Fortress

The final stop is Blackness Castle, a 15th-century fortress that features prominently as Fort William in the series. Visitors have around 55 minutes here to explore the castle’s ramparts, courtyards, and impressive architecture. Unlike some previous sites, admission is not included but can be purchased if desired. This location offers fantastic views of the Firth of Forth and a tangible sense of Scottish history.

Expert Guides and Themed Storytelling

Throughout the tour, a local English-speaking guide leads each stop, sharing stories about Outlander actors, filming sets, and historical context. Review comments highlight guides like Laurie, Emily, Cara, and Ryan for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, often blending Scottish history with behind-the-scenes insights from the series.

Personalities and Special Touches

Guides are praised for their friendly, informative, and humorous manner, making the day both educational and enjoyable. Many reviewers mention the guides’ ability to weave Scottish legends, film anecdotes, and local tips into the journey, enriching the experience. Some highlight specific guides like Tim or Laurie as particularly outstanding storytellers.

Transport and Group Size Advantages

Traveling in an air-conditioned coach, the small group size—max 16 travelers—ensures an intimate experience. The comfortable vehicle allows for scenic views during the drive through the Scottish countryside. The limited group size enhances opportunities for interaction, photo stops, and personalized attention from the guide.

Booking and Flexibility

Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially as the tour is popular and often booked 70 days in advance. The $89.22 per person fee covers transportation and guide services, with optional entrance fees for certain sites. The company offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, providing flexibility if plans change.

Considerations and Limitations

While the tour offers extensive site visits, some locations like Midhope Castle may be closed seasonally (December to March), in which case Linlithgow Palace becomes a substitute. Some reviews note that admission to castles is not included unless paid for separately, so budget accordingly. The tour runs rain or shine, but bad weather could lead to cancellations or changes in the itinerary.

Potential for Customization

The tour’s structure allows for a personalized experience with optional site admissions and flexible timing. It’s a good choice for those who want an overview of Outlander filming sites combined with Scottish history, but it might not satisfy visitors seeking in-depth exploration of specific locations.

Outlander Tour for Fans and History Enthusiasts

This full-day Outlander filming locations trip caters well to fans eager to see Lallybroch, Castle Leoch, and Inverness setpieces in person. It’s also suitable for anyone interested in Scottish castles, villages, and castles’ architecture. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, well-organized itinerary, and stunning scenery.

While some guests express minor frustrations over short visit durations or location closures, the overall consensus affirms this tour’s value. The small group size, entertaining storytelling, and authentic sites make it a worthwhile addition to any Edinburgh visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned coach throughout the day.

Can I buy admission tickets to castles at the tour?
Admission to Midhope Castle, Doune Castle, and Blackness Castle is not included but can be purchased separately at check-in.

What happens if a site is closed?
If a castle is closed for filming or other reasons, the tour substitutes Linlithgow Palace as an exterior visit, ensuring the itinerary remains full.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 16 travelers, fostering a more personal experience.

Are children allowed?
Children under 5 years old are not permitted, and anyone under 17 must be accompanied by an adult.

How long should I allocate for the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 8:45 am and returning to Edinburgh.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While specific accessibility details are not provided, the tour involves walking through castles and villages, which may pose challenges for some.

Can I cancel the tour for a full refund?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

This Outlander filming locations tour from Edinburgh offers a well-rounded, engaging experience for fans and history lovers alike, blending scenic drives, historic castles, and captivating stories into one memorable day.