Outlander Tour

Traveling through Scotland’s Highlands with a focus on Outlander filming sites sounds like a dream for fans of the series—and this private tour from Glasgow offers just that, with a few extras. This 8-hour journey, priced at about $630 for up to 7 people, promises an intimate experience, complete with personalized stops and a knowledgeable guide. While the cost might seem steep at first glance, the value lies in the exclusive access, flexible itinerary, and the chance to explore some of Scotland’s most picturesque spots, all tailored to your interests.

What I really appreciate about this tour is the flexibility it offers. The guide, Alistair, gets high praise for making the experience personable and engaging—he not only shares the show’s fascinating filming secrets but also adds other local highlights if you’re not obsessed with Outlander. Plus, the inclusion of WiFi and charging points ensures you stay connected, making the day both practical and comfortable. On the flip side, a minor consideration is that entrance fees to attractions like castles and palaces are not included, which can add up, so come prepared for extra expenses.

This private Outlander tour balances the allure of iconic locations with the comfort of a personalized approach. It’s a strong choice for dedicated fans eager to see real-life Scottish castles and villages, but it also suits those interested in Scottish history and scenery beyond the TV series.

Key points / Takeaways

• Private, customized experience ensures you get a tailored visit with no other travelers in your way.
• Multiple famous filming locations like Doune Castle and Culross Palace, offering authentic Scottish scenery and architecture.
• Knowledgeable guides like Alistair make storytelling lively and engaging, adding personal touches.
• Additional local highlights like Falkland Palace, Linlithgow Palace, and Preston Mill broaden the experience beyond Outlander.
• Comfort amenities such as WiFi, charging ports, and bottled water make the day stress-free.
• Extra expenses for entrance fees mean budget planning is key—admission to attractions is not included.

Once I looked into this tour, I was struck by how much it offers for fans of Outlander and lovers of Scottish scenery alike. It’s more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s a curated journey into the places that brought the series to life, with the added bonus of exploring historic villages, castles, and other notable sites. The fact that it’s a private tour means your group can set the pace and focus on what interests you most—an advantage many other group excursions can’t match.

The Itinerary: A Close Look at the Stops

Falkland Palace & Garden: A Royal Retreat with TV Ties

Your day begins at Falkland Palace, a site still owned by the Crown but managed by the Crichton Stuart family since 1887. This spot appears in the series, notably when Claire and Frank visit post-war Inverness in Season 1. The palace’s gardens and ruins give you a glimpse into 16th-century royalty, but it’s also a place where the series’ writers found inspiration. The guide, Alistair, points out the significance of the standing stones nearby where Claire’s time-traveling adventure begins.

Tip: Admission isn’t included here, so you might want to budget extra if you plan to explore the grounds more thoroughly. The 45-minute stop is just enough to soak in the atmosphere without rushing.

Culross Palace: The Picture-Perfect Village

Next, you’ll visit Culross, arguably the star of the series’ filming locations. This 17th- and 18th-century royal burgh is considered one of Scotland’s most charming villages. Its cobbled streets, historic buildings, and vibrant colors make it a photographer’s paradise. Fans will recognize it as the home of Rosshaven and the town where many scenes of Outlander’s past unfold.

Insight: Many visitors, like Pam, appreciate how guides tailor the experience, adding in local sights beyond Outlander, such as the nearby Kelpies or lovely cafes. Remember, admission isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

Blackness Castle: Fort William and Jamie’s Dark Moments

Built in the 1400s, Blackness Castle is another highlight, especially for Outlander fans. It’s served as Fort William in the series, where Jamie endures lashes from Captain Randall, and it’s also the place where Jamie’s father dies after watching his son suffer. The castle’s imposing walls and history of military and prison use lend a tangible sense of the darker side of Scottish history.

Note: The 1-hour stop is a decent taste of this fortress’s rugged charm. You’ll love the views over the Firth of Forth, and Alistair’s storytelling really brings the history alive.

Doune Castle: Monty Python Meets Game of Thrones

No Outlander tour is complete without Doune Castle, a stunning medieval stronghold built in the late 1300s. Its dramatic gatehouse and well-preserved Great Hall make it one of the most recognizable castles in Scotland. You might recognize it from Monty Python & The Holy Grail or from the Game of Thrones series, where it stood in as Winterfell.

Tip: Expect about 1 hour and 30 minutes here—plenty of time to explore the castle and take some memorable photos. The guide’s insights make this stop especially enjoyable, revealing the film secrets behind the castle’s cinematic appearances.

Linlithgow Palace: The Royal Birthplace and Prison

You’ll visit the ruins of Linlithgow Palace, birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots and the site of the Wentworth Prison scenes. It’s a grand, evocative ruin just outside Edinburgh, offering a sense of Scottish royal grandeur. The series used Bamburgh Castle in Northumberland for some exterior scenes of Wentworth, which is a clever detail you might find interesting.

Extra: The 45-minute stop provides a good opportunity to walk around and imagine the grandeur of Scottish monarchy, along with the series’ more intense scenes.

Preston Mill & Phantassie Doocot: Pigeons and Hidden Scenes

The tour culminates at Preston Mill, a charming 19th-century watermill, and a nearby Doocot—a pigeon house. These sites are visually appealing and have ties to Season 1 filming, where Jamie hides underwater at the mill and Claire faces questioning. The mill’s setting and the doocot’s historic construction add a slice of real rural Scotland.

Tip: The tour’s 1-hour stop here lets you appreciate the bucolic beauty and explore the mill’s history. Admission isn’t included, so budget accordingly.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

One of the biggest selling points is the private nature of the experience. You won’t be part of a noisy group, and your guide, Alistair, has garnered praise for making the day personable and flexible. He is known for sharing engaging stories and even tailoring the stops to your interests, whether that’s Outlander or Scottish castles and scenery.

The amenities—WiFi and charging points—add a modern touch to what is otherwise a step back in time. It’s clear that comfort and convenience are priorities, especially after a long day of sightseeing.

The cost can seem high—$630 for a group of up to 7—but when you consider the private transportation, personalized attention, and the chance to visit top-tier filming locations, many find it to be a good value. Plus, the tour includes some local highlights beyond Outlander, giving you a well-rounded Scottish experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a die-hard Outlander fan eager to see the actual locations and learn behind-the-scenes stories, this tour hits all the right notes. The guide’s storytelling makes the locations come alive, and the private format means you can ask questions or spend more time at places that catch your fancy.

History and castle enthusiasts will also enjoy the stops, especially given the detailed background and scenic settings. The tour is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, customizable day out—those who appreciate comfort amenities and personalized service.

However, if your main priority is visiting every attraction without extra costs, you’ll need to factor in additional admission fees. Also, given the 8-hour schedule, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

This Outlander tour offers a well-balanced blend of cinematic adventure, Scottish history, and scenic beauty—all wrapped into a private, personalized package. It’s a good choice for fans looking for an immersive experience and for anyone wanting to see some of Scotland’s most picturesque spots without the hassle of organizing multiple visits.

Expect knowledgeable guides like Alistair to make the history and filming secrets fun and accessible. The stops are carefully selected to give a genuine sense of place, and the comforts onboard make the day easier to enjoy. It’s a pricier option, but the private, tailored nature and the inclusion of multiple famous locations make it a worthwhile splurge for a memorable day.

If you’re after a flexible, intimate journey into the Highlands with a focus on Outlander and Scottish castles, this tour deserves serious consideration. It’s a perfect way to combine your love of the series with real Scottish scenery and history.

FAQ

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, giving you a more personalized experience.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, starting in Glasgow and returning to the same spot.

Are entrance fees included?
No, admission tickets for attractions like castles and palaces are not included, so plan for extra costs.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the guide can tailor the itinerary to your interests, whether focusing solely on Outlander or including other Scottish sites.

Is WiFi available during the trip?
Yes, WiFi and charging points are provided on board, helping you stay connected.

What is the price per group?
The cost is approximately $630.52 for up to 7 people, making it quite cost-effective for a private experience.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 101 days ahead, so early planning is recommended.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 7 George Square in Glasgow and concludes back at the same point.

Are pets allowed?
Service animals are permitted, but other pets are not specified.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, waterproof gear if rain is forecast, and extra cash for admission fees and meals.

This private Outlander tour combines cinematic magic with authentic Scottish sights, offering an engaging, flexible, and well-organized day in the Highlands. Whether you’re a superfan or simply love castles and scenic drives, it makes for a memorable way to experience Scotland’s cinematic and historic charm.