If you’re a fan of the Outlander series, this private tour from Edinburgh promises a day through some of the most iconic filming locations and historic sites. While we haven’t personally stepped into this particular experience, reviews and detailed itineraries reveal it’s a well-designed adventure with a lot to offer.
What we love about this tour is its personalized touch—you get a private guide, flexible stops, and the chance to explore these legendary sites without feeling rushed. Plus, the inclusion of both castles and countryside spots makes for a well-balanced day. The stunning views and photo opportunities are highlights that truly bring the series’ magic to life. That said, it’s quite a packed day, so if you’re not a fan of early starts or long car rides, it might be worth considering.
One minor consideration is that entrance fees to certain castles like Doune and Linlithgow Palace are not included, which could add to the overall cost if you decide to explore in depth. Still, the overall value—given the private guide, transportation, and curated stops—is quite strong, especially for Outlander enthusiasts. This tour is ideal for travelers craving an immersive, tailored experience that combines the series’ fictional world with real Scottish history and architecture.
Good To Know
- Private and Personalized: Perfect for travelers who prefer an intimate, flexible experience.
- Focus on Outlander Locations: Includes iconic sites like Castle Leoch, Cranesmuir Village, and Lallybroch.
- Stunning Scenery and Views: From standing stones to castles, the scenery is a visual treat.
- Flexible Tour Elements: Depending on seasonal closures, alternative sites like Forth Bridges are included.
- Value for Money: The price reflects private transportation, a guided experience, and multiple key locations.
- Efficient Itinerary: Well-paced stops ensure you see a lot without feeling overwhelmed.
The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect
Prefer private tours? More Culross exclusive experiences we've written about
Starting Point and Transportation
The tour begins in Edinburgh, with two convenient pickup locations—Waverley Bridge being the most central. You’ll travel in a comfortable private van, which means fewer strangers and more tailored attention. The journey lasts about 40 minutes each way, giving you plenty of time to relax or chat with your guide.
Tuilyies Standing Stones
Your first stop is the Tuilyies Standing Stones in Dunfermline. These are reminiscent of the mystical stones in the series that signal time travel, offering a sense of the series’ magical atmosphere. Here, you’re encouraged to soak in the ambiance and imagine the series’ characters in this ancient setting. Reviewers mention that this spot’s “mystical vibe” is palpable and sets the tone for the day.
Culross – Cranesmuir Village
Next, the charming Culross village, known as Cranesmuir in Outlander, is a standout. This well-preserved 17th-century town features cobbled streets and historic buildings, making it feel like stepping back in time. Fans will recognize Claire’s herb garden and the village’s authentic feel. The hour spent here should be enough to wander and snap some photos, capturing the show’s atmosphere.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyDoune Castle – Castle Leoch
The highlight for many Outlander fans is visiting Doune Castle, famously known as Castle Leoch. The castle’s medieval charm and rugged stone walls are striking, and its inclusion in other popular series like Monty Python and Game of Thrones adds to its appeal. While entrance fees are not included, you can explore the castle’s halls and learn about its history. Reviewers say the castle “feels like stepping into the series,” with some mentioning the guide’s insights made it even more engaging.
Stirling Castle (View from the Road)
While you don’t enter Stirling Castle, passing by it is a treat, offering a glimpse of Scotland’s royal history. It’s a quick photo stop, adding context to the region’s importance historically and narratively.
Linlithgow – Palace and Lunch Break
Your next stop is Linlithgow, where you have about 1.5 hours to enjoy a leisurely lunch (not included) and visit Linlithgow Palace. This majestic site is another Outlander filming location, representing Wentworth Prison. Reviews praise its stunning grounds and the chance to imagine Claire and Jamie’s escape, making it a perfect photo opportunity.
Blackness Castle – Fort William
Continuing south, the Blackness Castle offers dramatic views and is used as Fort William on the series. Its triangular shape juts into the Forth, providing panoramic vistas and a slightly ominous feel—perfect for fans who want to feel the series’ tension.
Midhope Castle – Lallybroch (Season-Dependent)
Depending on the season, visitors get to explore Midhope Castle, known as Lallybroch, Jamie Fraser’s family home. It’s a fan-favorite for its authentic, lived-in feel. Reviewers mention that this spot is “a must-see for Outlander lovers,” although it’s sometimes closed for filming or maintenance.
Forth Bridges or Alternative
If Midhope is closed, the tour offers a visit to the Forth Bridges, showcasing centuries of Scottish engineering. This provides a different kind of scenic beauty and a chance to appreciate Scotland’s architectural achievements.
End of the Day
The trip concludes back in central Edinburgh. The timing allows you to relax or continue exploring the city, depending on your plans. Many travelers appreciate the flexibility to extend their day or unwind after the adventure.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out
Private Guide and Transportation: The small group and private vehicle mean you get a personalized experience, with the ability to ask questions and make spontaneous stops. This level of attention is ideal for serious fans or those looking for a more relaxed pace.
Authentic Locations with a Touch of Fantasy: Visiting villages, castles, and standing stones that have been used in filming makes the series feel much more real. The detailed narratives provided by guides enhance the experience, turning scenic stops into mini-history lessons.
Stunning Views and Photo Opportunities: From the ancient stones to the castle ramparts, you’ll find plenty of spots to capture memories—many reviewers highlight how good the scenery is for photos.
Flexible Itinerary and Seasonal Adjustments: While the schedule is packed, the tour adapts to seasonal closures, ensuring you still get a fulfilling experience even if some sites are unavailable.
Value for Money: At $1,992 for up to 6 people, the experience offers a lot of value—private guide, transportation, multiple key locations, and personalized attention—especially compared to larger group tours.
Practical Considerations and Tips
- Entrance fees to Doune Castle and Linlithgow Palace are not included, so budget accordingly if you plan to explore these sites in depth.
- Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking on cobblestones and castle grounds.
- Check the weather forecast and dress in layers, as Scotland can be unpredictable.
- Bring a camera—these scenic locations are perfect for photos.
- The tour lasts roughly 10-11 hours, so be prepared for a long day.
- The seasonality affects the visit to Midhope Castle—be aware it might be closed during filming or winter months.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for dedicated Outlander fans who want to see the series’ locations in person, enriching their knowledge and appreciation. It also suits history buffs interested in Scottish castles, villages, and scenery, all wrapped into a comfortably private day. Travelers seeking a personalized, immersive experience rather than a large group tour will find this especially appealing.
If you enjoy a mix of history, storytelling, and beautiful scenery, this tour checks all those boxes. For those on a tight schedule or with a limited budget, it might seem a little pricey, but the private nature and curated stops make it a worthwhile splurge.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, consider the walking involved and the length of the day. Check with the provider if you have specific age concerns.
Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to Doune Castle and Linlithgow Palace are not included, so you might want to budget extra if you plan to explore inside.
Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the guide, but the itinerary is designed to cover key sites efficiently.
What if Midhope Castle is closed?
If Midhope isn’t accessible, the tour will visit the Forth Bridges instead, offering scenic views and a taste of Scottish engineering.
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for travelers with mobility needs.
How long is the drive between locations?
Most travel segments are around 40 minutes, providing a comfortable pace without long bus rides.
What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, camera, and a positive attitude ready for a full day of exploring.
Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there will be a stop in Linlithgow for you to grab a meal or snacks.
Final Thoughts
This private Outlander, Palaces & Jacobites tour offers a comprehensive, flexible journey through some of Scotland’s most iconic filming locations and historic sites. Its personalized approach makes it a standout for Outlander fans eager to connect the series with real-world scenery and architecture. While it’s a full day and not the cheapest option, the combination of private transport, guided insights, and scenic stops delivers significant value for those seeking an authentic, immersive experience.
Ideal for fans, history enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a deeper look into the series’ Scottish roots, this tour transforms a day into a memorable adventure. Whether you’re a die-hard Outlander devotee or simply love exploring castles and landscapes, you’ll come away with plenty of stories—and photos—to cherish.
In summary, if you’re after a well-organized, private journey into Outlander’s most famous locations with the flexibility to customize and explore at your own pace, this tour offers strong value and an unforgettable experience. It’s best suited for those who want a meaningful, intimate look at Scotland’s cinematic and historic treasures, all wrapped into one memorable day.
You can check if your dates are available here: