The Outlander 1 Day Experience

The Outlander 1 Day Experience offers an engaging journey through Edinburgh and its surrounding landmarks at a very accessible price of $89.22 per person. With an approximate 8-hour duration, this tour is designed for fans of the TV series and anyone interested in Scottish history and scenery. The tour departs from Apex Waterloo Place Hotel in Edinburgh, with central drop-offs at the end, making it convenient for visitors staying in the city center.

This tour earns a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from 368 reviews and is recommended by 97% of participants, highlighting its popularity and satisfaction. The small group size, capped at 48 travelers, ensures a comfortable experience and attentive narration. While most stops are free of admission fees, visitors should be aware that some locations like Doune Castle and Linlithgow Palace have additional entrance fees if they wish to explore further.

Key Points

• In-depth Outlander filming locations: from Falkland to Lallybroch
• Scottish landmarks: Linlithgow Palace, Culross, and Doune Castle
• Expert guide provides insider stories and historical context
• Round-trip transport from Edinburgh makes exploring easy
• Limited time at each site; plan for some quick visits
• Tours are most suitable for Outlander fans, history buffs, and castle lovers

The Tour Starts at the Apex Waterloo Place Hotel in Edinburgh

The Outlander 1 Day Experience begins at the Apex Waterloo Place Hotel, located centrally in Edinburgh. The tour includes round-trip transport from this meeting point, simplifying logistics and eliminating the need for separate arrangements. The mobile ticket system ensures a smooth check-in process.

Most bookings are made about 39 days in advance, reflecting its popularity among Outlander fans. The tour is designed for most travelers, with a focus on comfortable travel and engaging storytelling. It operates rain or shine, so packing layers and some snacks is recommended, especially since food and drinks are not included.

Visiting Falkland: The Inverness Stand-In for Outlander’s Inverness

The first stop is Falkland, which stands in for Inverness in the series. This charming village is the location where Claire and Frank enjoy their honeymoon in the show. The visit lasts about 15 minutes, providing a quick look at the filming spot without an admission fee.

Falkland’s medieval architecture and peaceful atmosphere make it a scenic photo opportunity. Its brief stop allows for a quick overview of the show’s connection to real Scottish towns. It’s ideal for fans eager to see the series’ starting points and capture photos of the quaint streets.

Exploring Culross: The Village of Cranesmuir

The tour’s next highlight is Royal Burgh of Culross, used extensively in Season 1 of Outlander to depict Cranesmuir. The Mercat Cross, situated in the heart of Culross, features prominently in the series—it’s the location where Geillis Duncan’s house appears and scenes involving Jamie and the young thief unfold.

The one-hour stop at Culross offers an admission-free chance to walk through the historic cobbled streets and see the gardens outside Geillis’s house. Visitors also recognize the Culross Palace interior from recent seasons. The town’s well-preserved architecture and atmosphere make it a favorite for fans eager to connect the show’s scenes with real locations.

Doune Castle: The Epic Setting of Castle Leoch

Doune Castle, which may sometimes be substituted with Blackness Castle depending on the day, features as Castle Leoch in Outlander. The castle is not included in the admission price, but visitors can explore its medieval ruins during a 45-minute stop.

Beyond Outlander, Doune Castle has appeared in Monty Python and the Holy Grail and Game of Thrones, adding to its filmic appeal. Its towering walls and historic battlements provide an immersive experience. Be aware that visitors need to pay entrance fees separately if they choose to explore inside.

Linlithgow Palace: The Setting for Wentworth Prison

The imposing ruins of Linlithgow Palace serve as the backdrop for Wentworth Prison, a pivotal location in Outlander. The 12th-century palace is where Jamie Fraser endures prison and torture scenes. It also features in the 2018 movie ‘Outlaw King’.

The one-hour-and-twenty-minute stop allows for a walk through the historic site, which was also the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. Nearby options for lunch make this a convenient spot to refuel before continuing the tour. The admission is not included, so visitors can choose to explore further if desired.

Midhope Castle: The Iconic Lallybroch

The tour culminates with a visit to Midhope Castle, known as Lallybroch, Jamie Fraser’s ancestral home in Outlander. This 16th-century tower house is not open for interior visits, but its archway entrance is instantly recognizable to fans.

The 15-minute stop offers a quintessential photo opportunity at one of the most memorable filming locations. For Outlander enthusiasts, standing outside Lallybroch provides a visceral connection to the series, making it a perfect finale for the day.

Scenic Return Over the Forth Bridges

As the tour wraps up, the group journeys back to Edinburgh with views over the Forth Bridges, renowned for their impressive engineering and striking appearance. This scenic drive provides a relaxing end to the day, leaving travelers with beautiful memories and plenty of photos.

Tour Guide and Commentary: Informative and Entertaining

The tour features a fully trained and experienced driver/guide, who shares insider stories and historical insights about both Scottish landmarks and the Outlander series. Reviews highlight guides like Ian and Brennan as charismatic and knowledgeable, capable of balancing entertainment and education.

The narration adds depth to the locations visited, making the experience more engaging for fans and history lovers alike. The small group size ensures everyone can hear and participate comfortably.

Practical Tips and Considerations

While most stops are brief, some visitors mention wishing for more time at certain locations like Culross or Linlithgow Palace. Be aware that Blackness Castle may sometimes be substituted for Doune Castle, and admission fees are separate if you wish to explore inside.

Physical accessibility could be a concern at locations with steep stairs or uneven surfaces, like Culross gardens or Midhope Castle. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for quick visits, as lunch options are available in Linlithgow but not included in the tour.

Final Thoughts on the Outlander 1 Day Experience

This tour offers a well-rounded experience for Outlander fans and history enthusiasts alike. Its cost-effective price, combined with expert narration and scenic stops, makes it a popular choice, as reflected in its high review scores.

While some reviews note limitations like limited time at each site and occasional substitutions of castles, the overall value and enjoyment remain high, especially for those eager to connect with the series’ filming locations and Scottish landmarks.

This 8-hour journey is best suited for visitors looking for a focused, entertaining day immersed in Scottish scenery, history, and Outlander lore. It’s an accessible, informative, and highly praised experience that captures the essence of Scotland’s charm and cinematic magic.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of the tour?
The Outlander 1 Day Experience costs $89.22 per person.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Apex Waterloo Place Hotel in Edinburgh and concludes with central Edinburgh drop-offs.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel and sightseeing.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are plenty of options for lunch in Linlithgow.

Which locations are part of the itinerary?
The stops include Falkland, Culross, Doune Castle (or Blackness Castle), Linlithgow Palace, and Midhope Castle (Lallybroch).

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for Doune Castle, Linlithgow Palace, and other sites are not included in the ticket price.

How do I handle cancellations?
Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour. Within 24 hours, refunds are not available.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but physical agility may be needed for sites with steep stairs or uneven terrain.

Can I book this tour for a different date?
Yes, reservations can be updated by contacting the tour provider, and most bookings can be changed or canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of filming location visits, Scottish landmarks, and knowledgeable guides makes it a top choice for Outlander fans seeking an immersive and enjoyable day in Scotland.