Outlander Day Tour from Glasgow

Explore Scotland’s Outlander Filming Locations with a Private Guide

This Outlander Day Tour from Glasgow offers a comprehensive journey through some of Scotland’s most iconic filming sites. Priced at $171.72 per person and lasting approximately 10 hours, the tour is designed for fans of the series and history enthusiasts alike. With a private group, a experienced guide, and stops at Blackness Castle, Midhope Castle, Falkland, Doune Castle, and Culross, visitors get an intimate look at Scotland’s scenic beauty and historic sites.

Set off from Glasgow’s George Square at 9:00 am, traveling in a comfortable vehicle with a small group of up to 8 travelers. While the tour covers many famous locations, it’s important to note that admission fees are not included, and meals or drinks are not provided. The tour suits those who enjoy storytelling, historical exploration, and Outlander scenery, though it’s best suited for people with moderate physical fitness.

Key Points

• Private, guided day trip from Glasgow lasting around 10 hours
• Visits to Blackness Castle, Lallybroch at Midhope Castle, Falkland, Doune Castle, and Culross
• Expert guide with over 10 years of experience provides behind-the-scenes stories
• Flexible exploration time at each stop, with opportunities for photos and self-guided walks
• Cost is $171.72 per person, with pickup and bottled water included
• Not suitable for visitors with mobility aids at Doune Castle due to steep steps

Starting Point and Tour Logistics in Glasgow

This tour begins at Costa Coffee in George Square, a central location in Glasgow easily accessible by public transportation. The start time is 9:00 am, and the tour ends back at the same meeting point. The group size is limited to eight travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

The transport is in a comfortable vehicle, and pickup and drop-off are included from the designated meeting point. Tour participants should be prepared for a full day of sightseeing, with moderate physical activity involved at some stops.

Blackness Castle: The “Ship That Never Sails”

The tour kicks off with a 30-minute guided visit to Blackness Castle, famously portrayed as Fort William in Outlander. Known as the “ship that never sails” because of its stone ship shape, this fortress offers a striking view of Firth of Forth. Visitors enjoy additional free time of 30 minutes to explore, take photos, and soak in the scenic setting.

While admission to the castle is not included, the guided experience reveals its storied past and filming secrets. The exterior views alone make this a standout stop, suitable for those who appreciate history and film locations.

Midhope Castle: Lallybroch in the Flesh

Next, the tour visits Midhope Castle, which fans recognize as Lallybroch, the beloved home of Jamie Fraser. This 16th-century tower house is a favorite among Outlander fans and offers a 30-minute window for exploring the grounds, capturing photos, and imagining life as Jamie’s family.

This site exudes Scottish charm and provides a tranquil setting for photography and immersion in the series’ world. Like the other stops, admission is not included, but the experience of walking through the iconic estate leaves a lasting impression.

Falkland: The Fictional Inverness

The charming village of Falkland is a highlight, serving as the filming location for the 1940s Inverness in Outlander. The village’s cobbled streets and historic buildings offer a step back in time. Visitors have 1 hour and 15 minutes to explore, enjoy local cafes, and visit Falkland Palace if they wish.

Falkland Palace is not included in the visit and is closed during winter, but the outdoor sights, like the Bruce Fountain and other points of interest, are explained during the guided stop. This village provides a mix of scenic beauty and history, perfect for a leisurely break.

Doune Castle: Film and TV Icon

Doune Castle is a key attraction, with 1 hour allocated for the visit. The 15-minute presentation from the guide introduces the castle’s history and its many film roles, including Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Game of Thrones, and Outlander (as Castle Leoch).

Visitors can explore using audio guides (included in the entrance fee) and admire the impressive medieval architecture. It’s important to note that mobility aids are not recommended due to steep steps and narrow pathways, but the exterior views and courtyard are accessible.

Culross: The Picturesque Town of Cranesmuir

The final stop is Culross, a beautifully preserved 17th-century village that served as the fictional Cranesmuir in Outlander. During the 30-minute visit, the village’s cobbled streets, Mustard-colored houses, and Culross Palace (visited from the outside) provide captivating scenery.

Key points include the Mercat Cross, representing the village’s trading past, and the Hanging Garden behind the palace. Visitors enjoy a panoramic view of the River Forth, making this an ideal ending point for the day’s sightseeing.

Additional Inclusions and Limitations

The tour includes a driver/guide and bottled water, but food, drinks, and admission fees are not included in the price. There is no hotel drop-off or pickup beyond the designated meeting point, and admission fees are optional.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, providing flexibility if plans change. However, the tour can be canceled if the minimum number of travelers is not met, and refunds are not available within 24 hours.

Potential Challenges and Considerations

While the itinerary covers many top locations, the limited time at each site means travelers should plan for quick explorations and photography opportunities. The small group size enhances the experience, but mobility limitations at Doune Castle could restrict access for some visitors. Plus, admission costs are not included, so budget accordingly.

One review indicates a problem with pickup, suggesting travelers should confirm arrangements ahead of time to avoid delays.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This Outlander-focused tour is perfect for fans of the series, history buffs, and those interested in Scottish scenery and castles. The small-group format and experienced guide make for a personalized experience, ideal for anyone looking to combine film locations with scenic exploration.

However, those with mobility issues or tight schedules should consider the physical requirements and the costs not included in the base price.

Final Thoughts on the Outlander Day Tour from Glasgow

This 10-hour private tour offers a well-rounded look at some of Scotland’s most iconic filming locations, blending history, scenery, and storytelling. The expert guide and careful itinerary ensure visitors see the highlights of Blackness Castle, Lallybroch, Falkland, Doune Castle, and Culross.

While admission fees and meals are optional, the value lies in the personalized experience and the chance to stand in the places that brought Outlander scenes to life. The limited group size fosters an intimate atmosphere, though the pickup issues reported suggest travelers should double-check arrangements.

This tour suits dedicated Outlander fans and history lovers eager to explore Scotland’s scenic castles, charming villages, and series-related sites in one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour requires moderate physical activity, so families with young children should consider their activity levels.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are local cafes and restaurants at Falkland where you can purchase lunch.

Can I visit Falkland Palace during the tour?
Yes, the guided stop at Falkland allows time to visit Falkland Palace if you bring your own lunch. Please note the palace is closed during winter and requires an additional entrance fee.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Doune Castle is not suitable for visitors using mobility aids due to steep steps and narrow pathways. Other stops are accessible, but mobility requirements should be considered.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 9:00 am and concluding back at the original meeting point.

What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at Costa Coffee in George Square, Glasgow.

Is there a guide included?
Yes, an experienced driver/guide with over 10 years of experience leads the tour, providing stories and insights at each stop.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 8 travelers, offering a more personalized experience.

Are admission fees included?
No, admission fees to sites like castles and palaces are not included in the tour price.