Five Outlander locations , Outlander film locations tour

Exploring the Scottish landscape through the lens of Outlander offers a unique way to connect with the show’s beloved characters and dramatic scenery. This private tour from Edinburgh takes you to five iconic filming sites, giving fans a chance to walk in Jamie and Claire’s footsteps — and to do so at your own pace. With the added bonus of personalized service, knowledge-rich guides, and hassle-free transportation, it’s an experience worth considering for any Outlander enthusiast.

Two things I really appreciate about this tour are the personalized approach — it’s exclusively for your party — and the chance to see sites that are deeply woven into the show’s storylines. The guides seem to have a knack for storytelling, making the history and filming details come alive. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that entrance fees aren’t included, so you’ll need to budget extra for tickets. Still, considering the convenience and the breadth of locations covered, many travelers find this a worthwhile investment.

Key points / Takeaways

• Private Experience: Only your group participates, ensuring a personalized and flexible visit.
• Authentic Filming Locations: Visit iconic sites like Lallybroch, Wentworth Prison, Castle Leoch, and more.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides, such as David, add depth and fun to the day.
• Hassle-Free Transport: Air-conditioned sedan with live commentary makes for a comfortable journey.
• Timing & Duration: A full day (7-8 hours) comfortably packed with sightseeing, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy each spot.
• Additional Costs: Entrance tickets are not included, so plan ahead for site fees.

Exploring Outlander’s Most Famous Filming Locations in Scotland

If you’re a fan of the Outlander series, this private tour from Edinburgh offers a chance to see some of the most recognizable filming sites cast against the real Scottish landscape. The experience is designed to be both immersive and convenient, with a guide who can tell you stories behind the scenes and give you a deeper understanding of the show’s filming locations.

The benefit of a private tour is that it’s tailored for your group, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more intimate exploration. The cost, at around $785 for up to four people, might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the convenience, personalized service, and access to multiple iconic sites, the value becomes clearer — especially if you’re a dedicated Outlander fan.

What To Expect from the Itinerary

Midhope Castle (“Lallybroch”)

Your journey begins at Midhope Castle, a striking 16th-century tower house that famously serves as Jamie Fraser’s ancestral home, Lallybroch. This site is a highlight for fans because it’s where Jamie sets up home with Claire in the first season. You won’t get inside unless tickets are purchased separately, but the outside view alone — with its classic Scottish stonework — stirs the imagination. As one reviewer noted, “Much use is made of Midhope Castle in season 7,” making this a must-see for dedicated watchers.

Linlithgow Palace (“Wentworth Prison”)

Next, you’ll visit the atmospheric Linlithgow Palace, which doubles as Wentworth Prison. Built in the 1400s by King James V, this ruined palace sits beside Linlithgow Loch, providing a dramatic backdrop. It’s the site of some of the series’ most intense scenes, including Jamie’s brutal incarceration. Expect to walk through evocative ruins that helped bring scenes to life — and to hear stories about the filming that took place here. Keep in mind, tickets are extra, but the location’s ambiance and historical significance more than compensate.

Doune Castle (“Castle Leoch”)

Doune Castle is a favorite among Outlander fans due to its role as Castle Leoch, home to the Clan Mackenzie. Built in 1400, this castle has also been Winterfell in Game of Thrones, so it’s no stranger to being a star on screen. You can wander the Great Hall, imagining Colum and Claire’s conversations, and enjoy the castle’s well-preserved medieval features. The guide will likely share behind-the-scenes stories, adding a layer of fun for TV buffs.

Blackness Castle (“Fort William”)

Another standout stop is Blackness Castle, which served as Fort William in the series. Its commanding position and formidable walls make it an impressive view, and its use in the show adds a layer of authenticity for fans who want to see where Jamie and Claire’s adventures unfolded. It’s a good place to stretch your legs and soak in the views of the Firth of Forth.

Culross Palace (“Cranesmuir”)

Finally, the charming Culross Palace and its town, Culross, act as Cranesmuir, a fictional village in Outlander. The town’s preserved historic buildings and cobbled streets provide a picture-perfect setting, making it one of the most photogenic locations on the tour. You’ll get a taste of authentic Scottish village life, which helps contextualize the series’ period setting.

Why This Tour Works Well

The transportation is air-conditioned and comfortable, making the long day manageable even in warm weather. The live commentary provided by guides like David is both informative and engaging, with reviews praising their friendly demeanor and depth of knowledge. The fact that the tour is private means you can ask questions or linger at sites without feeling rushed.

The timing allows you to visit each location without feeling hurried — approximately 40 minutes at Midhope, then four other sites around an hour each. This pacing ensures you get a real sense of each place without long waits or rushes.

Considerations and Practical Tips

One aspect to keep in mind is that entrance tickets are not included. This means you’ll need to budget extra for entries, which could add up if you plan to visit multiple sites. However, many travelers find that the convenience of door-to-door pickup from Edinburgh hotels and the insightful guides more than make up for this small extra step.

Another point is that you’ll spend about 7 to 8 hours on the road, so dressing comfortably and bringing snacks is advisable. The tour starts at 10:00 am, giving you a full day to explore. For those who love the series or are interested in Scottish scenery and castles, this experience offers a good mix of film location magic and authentic history.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for Outlander fans eager to see the scenery and locations that brought the show to life. It’s also well-suited for history enthusiasts who enjoy castles, palaces, and Scottish landscapes. Because it’s private, it provides a more relaxed and flexible experience, making it ideal for small groups or couples wanting a more personalized day. If you’re traveling with people who aren’t as into Outlander, they might find the sites interesting but may not share the same enthusiasm.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For fans of the series, this tour offers the chance to step into the fictional worlds of Jamie and Claire while surrounded by the real beauty of Scotland. The guides, especially those like David, seem to bring a lot of passion and knowledge, which enhances the experience. The sites themselves are some of the most visually striking filming locations, and the convenience of round-trip transport from Edinburgh eliminates the hassle of navigating public transport or hiring a car.

The price reflects a combination of private service, multiple sites, and the personalized attention you receive. While entrance fees are not included, most travelers find that the overall value — especially for a full day of tailored sightseeing — makes this a worthwhile splurge.

If you’re seeking a convenient, intimate way to connect with Outlander’s Scotland and don’t mind paying a bit extra for comfort and a private guide, this tour offers a memorable and visually stunning way to spend your day.

FAQs

Are entrance tickets included in the price?
No, admission to the sites is not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to purchase those separately.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private experience, meaning only your party will participate, allowing for a more personalized visit.

What’s the best time to start the tour?
The tour begins at 10:00 am, giving you a full day to visit all five locations comfortably.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, making it a full day of sightseeing.

Can I bring a guide or escort?
This tour does not include an additional escort; it’s just your private guide and driver.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to consider the walking involved at each site, especially for those with mobility concerns.

In all, this Outlander filming location tour from Edinburgh is a well-rounded, engaging way for fans to see Scotland through the lens of one of TV’s most beloved series. It balances historical sites, stunning scenery, and TV magic with the comfort of private transportation and expert guides — making it a memorable day out for any Outlander devotee.