Edinburgh and Outlander by Rail from London 3-Day Tour

Gazing at this tour from afar, it’s clear that this 3-day experience is crafted for those wanting a well-rounded taste of Edinburgh’s historic charm and the beloved Outlander series’ filming sites. From the moment you step onto the train at London King’s Cross, you’re treated to a scenic ride with reserved seats on the London to Edinburgh leg — a small luxury that makes the journey comfortable and relaxed. Once there, the combination of guided tours, free time, and special filming location visits offers a balance of structured exploration and personal discovery.

What I find particularly appealing is how this tour packs in key highlights: the awe-inspiring Edinburgh Castle with its Stone of Destiny, a hop-on hop-off bus that takes you through the city’s most Instagram-worthy spots, and an immersive Outlander-themed day exploring Lallybroch, Castle Leoch, and other filming locations. Plus, the scenic return train journey adds a touch of Scottish countryside elegance, making the entire package feel worth the price.

That said, a potential consideration is the unescorted nature of Days 1 and 3. If you prefer guided, in-depth commentary at every step, you might find this a bit sparse outside the Outlander day tour. Also, since the itinerary involves visiting castles that can sometimes be closed for filming, flexibility is key — plans may shift depending on local circumstances. Still, for those eager to see the sites and stories of Scotland at a good value, this trip offers solid bang for your buck.

Key points / Takeaways

• Comfortable Rail Travel: Reserved seats on the LNER train make for a relaxed journey with plenty of legroom and scenic views.
• Rich Historical Access: Entrance to Edinburgh Castle offers insight into one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks, complete with the Stone of Destiny.
• Flexible City Exploration: The hop-on hop-off bus gives you the liberty to explore Edinburgh at your own pace, hopping off at major attractions like Holyrood Palace or John Knox House.
• Authentic Outlander Experience: Visiting Midhope Castle (Lallybroch) and Doune Castle (Castle Leoch) immerses Outlander fans in the series’ real-life filming locations.
• Insightful Guides: The Outlander tour is led by Highland Explorer Tours, with guides providing entertaining and informative stories.
• Scenic Return Trip: The train journey back to London offers a scenic, stress-free end to the adventure.

Arriving in Edinburgh: A Place Full of Stories

Your trip kicks off with a morning train departing London at 7:00 am, arriving in Edinburgh around 11:20 am. That’s a bit of a long haul — about four and a half hours — but the reserved seats and the scenery make it manageable. It’s worth arriving early enough to enjoy the city’s vibe before the afternoon begins.

Once in Edinburgh, your first stop is the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock, an extinct volcano. The castle’s history is eye-opening: it’s been a royal residence, a fortress, and even a prison of war. The ticket includes access to the Stone of Destiny, a symbol of Scottish sovereignty used at coronations for centuries. Walking around the battlements, I loved imagining the centuries of stories that unfolded here. The guides or informational plaques do a good job of bringing the place to life — they’re a highlight for history buffs or anyone curious about Scotland’s past.

After the castle, the hop-on hop-off bus allows you to get your bearings. It’s the easiest way to cover the city’s top sights without tiring yourself out. Places like the Grassmarket, with its lively atmosphere and views of the castle, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen’s official residence in Edinburgh, are all stops you can visit at your own pace. The flexibility to hop on and off makes this a practical way to see the city’s best without feeling rushed.

Outlander Filming Locations: A Fan’s Dream

On Day 2, the focus shifts to Outlander’s captivating scenery and filming sites. The guided tour starts with a drive out to Midhope Castle, the real-life Lallybroch, Jamie Fraser’s family home. Even if you’re not an Outlander superfan, it’s fascinating to see a castle that looks like it belongs in a fairytale. Some reviews mention that the castle is not always open, so plans might shift, but when accessible, it’s a genuine treat.

Next, Doune Castle steals the show. This medieval fortress has a history that predates Outlander, yet it became famous as Castle Leoch in the series. Interestingly, it’s also used as Winterfell in Game of Thrones and featured in Monty Python’s Holy Grail, making it a film buff’s delight. The guide shared stories about how the castle’s preservation and use balance history and filming needs, adding depth to the visit.

The tour then heads into the Kingdom of Fife, a region with royal roots, and stops in Culross, a charming village representing Cranesmuir, where Claire was accused of witchcraft. Walking through Culross’ cobbled streets, I appreciated how well-preserved the architecture feels from the 17th and 18th centuries. It feels like stepping back in time, and it’s a favorite among Outlander fans for its authenticity.

Finally, the day ends at Blackness Castle, which film fans recognize as Fort William. The views of the Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are stunning — and the castle itself is atmospheric, with a history as a royal fortress and prison. It’s a perfect spot for photos and reflection before heading back to Edinburgh.

Exploring Edinburgh: Giving You Time to Wander

Day 3 is entirely free for you to explore at your leisure. Many travelers love strolling the labyrinth of Old Town’s medieval streets, climbing Castle Hill, and visiting the Stone of Destiny—a sacred object and a reminder of Scottish independence. The New Town offers elegant Georgian architecture and delightful shops. Whether you prefer sightseeing, shopping, or simply soaking in the city’s atmosphere, you have plenty of options.

The flexibility allows you to visit minor sights or revisit favorites. Some reviews suggest climbing Carlton Hill for panoramic views, while others enjoy browsing local markets or relaxing in cozy cafes. This last day is about savoring Edinburgh’s charm and making personal discoveries.

Price and Value: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour covers a lot of ground for what it costs. You get a return train journey with reserved seats, making travel hassle-free. Entrance to Edinburgh Castle is included, saving on ticket costs, and the hop-on hop-off bus provides convenient city transport. Plus, the full-day Outlander tour is guided, with stops at key filming locations, which adds depth and context you wouldn’t get on your own.

However, there’s no included lunch or hotel transfers, so you’ll need to budget for meals and plan your own accommodations. The tour doesn’t include a dedicated guide for Days 1 and 3, so you’re navigating the city independently, which works well if you enjoy some autonomy.

For the price point, this experience offers a comprehensive look at Edinburgh and Outlander sites without the expense of private guides or multiple day tours. It’s a good value for travelers seeking a balance of guided insight and free exploration.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you love history, castles, or Outlander, this tour offers a tailored experience that hits all those marks. It’s ideal for travelers who want to maximize sightseeing in a short time without feeling overwhelmed. The scenic train journey and guided castle visits add a special touch for those who appreciate ease and comfort during their travels.

This tour suits those who prefer a mix of guided and independent days, especially if you’re okay with unescorted exploration on Days 1 and 3. Since it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, it’s better suited for active travelers comfortable walking and navigating old streets.

FAQs

Is transportation from London to Edinburgh included?
Yes, the return train journey with reserved seats on LNER is part of the package, making the trip comfortable and stress-free.

Can I customize the day in Edinburgh?
While the main attractions are pre-planned, you’re free to explore on your own after the guided tours, allowing for personal interests or spontaneous discoveries.

Are the castles open all year?
The itinerary notes that some castles might be closed for filming or maintenance, so plans could be adjusted accordingly.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, snacks, water, and weather-appropriate clothing will enhance your experience. Be prepared for all weather in Scotland.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for children under 5 years old and is suitable for ages 5-15.

What is the guide experience like?
On Day 2, Highland Explorer Tours’ guides provide stories and historical insights, making the Outlander locations more meaningful. Outside that day, sightseeing is self-guided.

In this three-day adventure, you get a well-balanced glimpse of Edinburgh’s historic streets, stunning castles, and the charming world of Outlander. It’s especially perfect for those who want a taste of Scotland’s past, scenery, and lore without the hassle of planning every step. Whether you’re a fan of the series, a history lover, or simply seeking a scenic and culturally rich getaway, this tour offers a satisfying way to see Scotland in a manageable, enjoyable package.