Exploring the Private Outlander & St Andrews Tour from Edinburgh
If you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh and eager to explore beyond the city, the Private Outlander and St Andrews tour offers an intriguing blend of Scottish culture, cinematic history, and charming coastal scenery. While we haven’t taken this exact journey ourselves, the combination of expert guides, customizable itineraries, and a balance of filming locations and historic towns makes it an appealing option for many travelers.
What draws us in most is the personalized experience—a private group means less rushing, more flexibility, and a tailored day. The diverse highlights, from the dramatic castles seen on screen to the seaside town of St Andrews, promise a well-rounded taste of Scotland’s heritage and beauty. Plus, the enthusiastic reviews talk about knowledgeable guides and comfortable travel, making it seem like a smooth, enjoyable day. On the flip side, potential travelers should consider that entry tickets are not included, so budget for those separately.
This tour is ideal for Outlander fans eager to see filming locations firsthand, but it also suits those simply wanting a private day trip filled with history, coastal charm, and Scottish scenery. Whether you’re a dedicated viewer or just curious about the country’s past and landscapes, this experience offers a good mix of entertainment and exploration.
You can check if your dates are available here:Good To Know
- Flexible, customizable itinerary that adapts even on the day of travel
- Private group for a more personalized and relaxed experience
- Comprehensive highlights including castles, villages, and the charming town of St Andrews
- Expert driver/guide who is knowledgeable and engaging
- Transportation is in a luxury vehicle, ensuring comfort throughout the 8-hour journey
- Entry tickets are not included, so plan for additional costs
Prefer private tours? More Edinburgh exclusive experiences we've written about
The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect
Starting Point and Duration
The tour begins with a hotel pickup, setting the tone for a hassle-free day. Lasting around 8 hours, this is a well-paced trip that balances sightseeing with relaxed travel. Confirming the start time depends on availability, but the flexible scheduling means you can often choose a time that best fits your plans.
Outlander Filming Locations: Midhope Castle, Blackness Castle, Culross Village, and more
If you’re a fan of the Outlander series, you’ll love visiting the real-life sites that brought your favorite scenes to life. The tour includes stops at:
- Midhope Castle, famously known as Lallybroch, the Fraser family home. This location is a favorite for fans eager to walk where Jamie and Claire once roamed. It’s a private property, so access might depend on current arrangements, but the views are pretty stunning from the outside.
- Blackness Castle, which doubled as Fort William in the series. Its commanding position on the Firth of Forth offers impressive photo opportunities and a sense of Scottish military history.
- Culross Village, a beautifully preserved town that served as Cranesmuir in the series, with its cobbled streets and historic buildings providing an authentic step back in time.
- Dysart Harbour, a quaint fishing village that adds coastal charm and offers additional scenic beauty, especially if you enjoy seaside views.
Castles and Historic Sites
The tour also touches on Falkland village, known for its well-preserved historic buildings and the Falkland Palace. While not explicitly listed as a filming location, it’s part of the broader scenic experience.
- From Edinburgh: Day Trip to Bamburgh and Alnwick Castle
- Rosslyn Chapel and Hadrian’s Wall Small Group Day Tour
- From Edinburg: Viking Coast & Alnwick Castle Day Tour
- Edinburgh: the Royal City Tour From London
- Alnwick Castle and Scottish Borders Tour From Edinburgh
- From Edinburgh: Holy Island, Alnwick Castle & Northumbria
St Andrews: The Golf and Old Town
After soaking in the series’ highlights, the journey takes a short drive to St Andrews, often called the home of golf. Here, you’ll get an opportunity to:
- View the iconic Old Course, one of the oldest golf courses in the world
- Wander through the Old Town, with its medieval streets, ruins, and lively atmosphere
- Experience a town that blends history with a relaxed seaside vibe, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a coffee break
Customization and Flexibility
One of the tour’s biggest advantages is its adaptability. From the review, we learn guides are open to adding other locations if requested on the day. This means if you’re particularly interested in one site or want to skip another, your driver can often accommodate.
What’s Included and What Costs Extra
The $646 price covers private transportation, a driver/guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a straightforward all-in-one package. It’s a fair value when you consider the exclusivity of a private group and the tailored experience.
However, keep in mind that entry tickets to castles such as Blackness Castle, Midhope Castle, and Falkland Palace are not included. Budget extra for these if you wish to explore inside. Also, food and drinks are on you, so plan for a packed lunch or dining options in St Andrews.
The luxury vehicle ensures comfort, which makes a significant difference on an 8-hour trip—no cramped bus seats here. The guide, often praised as knowledgeable—like Scott, who received glowing reviews—is key to making the experience memorable, sharing insights that you won’t find in guidebooks.
Authentic Experiences: What Reviewers Say
The reviews highlight several aspects that resonate with future travelers. One reviewer describes the day as “nicely timed,” with good recommendations. They appreciated the luxury vehicle and “great scenery,” which suggests the comfort and visual appeal of the trip are well thought through.
Another review mentions Scott’s knowledge, noting that he was “super knowledgeable,” which enhances the overall experience. The fact that the trip caters to both Outlander fans and those interested in scenery or history makes it a versatile choice.
The combination of flexible planning and attentive guiding means you won’t feel rushed, and you can focus on the sites that interest you most. The tour’s customization potential was a significant plus for some, allowing for a more personal experience.
Why This Tour Works Well
The private format allows you to set the pace and choose your preferred stops, which is especially valuable in a country where weather and light can change quickly. The scenic drives between sites are an experience in themselves, offering views of Scotland’s lush countryside and rugged coastline.
The inclusion of St Andrews ensures you get a taste of Scotland’s golfing heritage and coastal charm, making this more than just a series of film locations. It’s a well-rounded day trip offering history, scenery, and pop culture in one convenient package.
Who Will Love This Experience
This tour is perfect for Outlander fans who want to see the filming sites in person, but it also appeals to those who enjoy historic towns, castles, and seaside scenery. The private nature makes it ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking an intimate and customizable experience.
It’s also well-suited for people with limited time who want a comprehensive day trip rather than trying to piece together multiple visits on their own. If you’re interested in traveling comfortably without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour offers excellent value.
Final Thoughts
For travelers eager to combine a love of film with genuine Scottish history and scenery, this Private Outlander and St Andrews tour strikes a compelling balance. The flexibility, comfort, and knowledgeable guiding ensure it’s a stress-free way to explore some of Scotland’s most photogenic and historically significant sites.
While the price isn’t cheap, the personalized touch and the ability to customize your day add substantial value. It’s particularly appealing if you appreciate guided insights, scenic drives, and a mix of culturally rich stops.
If your goal is to see the iconic locations from Outlander, while also enjoying the beauty of St Andrews and its surroundings, this tour is a dependable choice that offers both entertainment and authentic experiences.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s a private and flexible experience. Comfortable shoes are recommended, but there’s no specific age restriction.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, guides are happy to incorporate other locations or modify the schedule even on the day of the tour.
Are entry tickets included?
No, the tour price does not include tickets to castles or other sites, so budget for those separately.
How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 hours, with enough time for sightseeing and travel between locations.
What is the group size?
It’s a private tour, so you’ll be traveling with your own group of up to 6 people.
Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel are included.
Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around castles and towns.
How do I pay and what is the cancellation policy?
You can reserve now and pay later, with full refunds available if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance.
To sum it up, this private tour from Edinburgh is a fantastic way to see Scotland’s film and historic sites in comfort and style. It offers a customizable, intimate experience that emphasizes genuine scenery and engaging storytelling—perfect for those wanting to explore at their own pace without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re a die-hard Outlander fan or simply seeking a scenic day out, this trip is designed to deliver memorable moments—and perhaps even a few surprises along the way.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Private Tours in Edinburgh
- St Giles’ Cathedral and Edinburgh Old Town Private Tour
- Professional Private Photoshoot
- Private tour: discover the city which inspired Harry Potter
- Private Photoshoot with Views of Famous Edinburgh Castle
- Loch Ness, Glencoe,Highlands Private Day Tour from Edinburgh
- Full Day Private Shore Tour in Edinburgh from Newhaven Port
More Tours in Edinburgh
- Dark Stories of Edinburgh: walking tour in French
- Edinburgh’s Dark and Hidden History Walking Tour
- Edinburgh: St Andrews, Dunfermline Abbey and Fife Coast Tour
- St Giles’ Cathedral and Edinburgh Old Town Private Tour
- Edinburgh: St Andrews, Dunnottar Castle & Falkland Tour
- Private tour: discover the city which inspired Harry Potter
More Tour Reviews in Edinburgh
- Dark Stories of Edinburgh: walking tour in French
- Edinburgh’s Dark and Hidden History Walking Tour
- Edinburgh: St Andrews, Dunfermline Abbey and Fife Coast Tour
- St Giles’ Cathedral and Edinburgh Old Town Private Tour
- Edinburgh: St Andrews, Dunnottar Castle & Falkland Tour
- Romantic Photoshoot Experience for Couples in Edinburgh
Looking for something different? Other Edinburgh activities we've written about
- Dark Stories of Edinburgh: walking tour in French
- Edinburgh’s Dark and Hidden History Walking Tour
- Edinburgh: St Andrews, Dunfermline Abbey and Fife Coast Tour
- St Giles’ Cathedral and Edinburgh Old Town Private Tour
- Edinburgh: St Andrews, Dunnottar Castle & Falkland Tour
- Romantic Photoshoot Experience for Couples in Edinburgh
- Professional Private Photoshoot
- Private tour: discover the city which inspired Harry Potter
- Private Photoshoot with Views of Famous Edinburgh Castle
- Whiskey Walks: A Spirited Journey Through Edinburgh
- London to Edinburgh Castle day tour with Transportation
- Loch Ness, Glencoe,Highlands Private Day Tour from Edinburgh