From Glasgow: Outlander Castles and The Scottish Countryside

Embarking on a tour to visit Outlander filming locations from Glasgow promises a day filled with historical sights, picturesque villages, and breathtaking landscapes. This experience, offered by Highland Explorer Tours, is perfect for fans of the series, history buffs, and anyone eager to see the Scottish countryside beyond the city streets.

What we love about this tour is how it balances iconic filming spots with authentic Scottish charm — from the rugged castles to cobbled streets. The relaxed pace gives you plenty of time to explore, snap photos, and soak in the scenery. Plus, the guide’s storytelling adds depth, making each stop come alive. A potential consideration is that entrance fees to castles aren’t included, so you’ll need to budget for that separately. This tour suits those wanting a full, scenic day that combines pop culture with Scottish history.

Good To Know:

• Authentic Locations: Visit real castles and villages used in Outlander.
• Scenic Highlights: Enjoy stunning views over the Firth of Forth and countryside.
• Flexible Experience: Ample free time at charming villages for exploration.
• Expert Guidance: Passionate, engaging guides enhance storytelling.
• Value for Money: A full-day adventure at a reasonable price.
• Not for All: Entry to castles isn’t included, so some extra costs are possible.

Discovering the Outlander Filming Locations

This day-long trip from Glasgow takes you across the historic and scenic Scottish landscape, focusing on places that bring the Outlander series to life. Whether you’re a dedicated fan or just curious about Scotland’s cinematic charm, the itinerary offers a mix of famous castles, quaint villages, and stunning vistas. It’s a well-rounded way to experience the country’s beauty and history in one day.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Starting Point and Transport

The adventure kicks off at Buchanan Street Bus Station, conveniently located in Glasgow. The meet-up is straightforward — look out for the blue bus, arriving 15 minutes early, and check the screens for your departure gate. The transportation is a comfortable coach, with the entire day planned for travel and sightseeing, so expect a few hours on the road (around 4 hours in total).

The coach’s comfortable seating and audio guide in multiple languages (Italian, French, Spanish, German, Portuguese, and Mandarin) make the journey enjoyable, especially if you’re traveling with a group or with children who prefer to relax during drives. The tour is a full 13 hours, so prepare for an early start and a late return, ideal if you’re looking to maximize your day.

The First Stop: Doune Castle (Castle Leoch)

Your first major stop is Doune Castle, which served as Castle Leoch in the series. With its imposing 14th-century structure, this site offers a tangible connection to the series and Scotland’s medieval past. While you can’t enter the castle, the grounds allow plenty of space for exploring and imagining life as a Highland clansman. The guide will share stories about the castle’s history and its role in filming, making the visit more meaningful.

Exploring Culross — Cranesmuir

Next, the tour takes you to Culross, a picture-perfect village that doubles as Cranesmuir in Outlander. Walking its cobbled streets feels like stepping into the show — you might even spot Claire’s herb garden and the historic buildings that have changed little over centuries. This stop is particularly appreciated by fans for its authenticity and charm.

Visitors often remark on how peaceful and photogenic Culross is. The 70-minute free time allows for wandering, browsing local shops, or simply soaking in the view. It’s a fantastic snapshot of traditional Scottish village life, blending history with a touch of pop culture.

Falkland: Inverness in the 1940s

Falkland, a small town that doubles as 1940s Inverness, is next on the itinerary. The town’s vintage vibe transports you to the time period depicted in the series. Highlights include the Bruce Fountain, which is a notable filming spot and a fun photo opportunity. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed lunch here, with time to explore the local landmarks and imagine what life was like during that era.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Midhope Castle — Lallybroch

The highlight for many fans is a visit to Midhope Castle, famously known as Lallybroch, Jamie Fraser’s ancestral home. While the castle itself isn’t open for entry, standing outside and walking around the estate feels like stepping directly into the show. The peaceful surroundings and iconic façade make for memorable photos and a genuine sense of connection to the series.

Blackness Castle — Fort William

Finally, the day concludes with a visit to Blackness Castle, which portrayed Fort William in Outlander. Overlooking the Firth of Forth, this fortress offers sweeping views and a sense of Scottish history. The combination of dramatic scenery and the castle’s fortress walls will leave you with a lasting impression.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Beyond the obvious appeal for Outlander fans, this tour offers a well-structured, full-day experience that balances guided storytelling with free time for personal discovery. The inclusion of lesser-known spots like Culross provides a more authentic feel of Scottish life, away from overly commercialized tourist traps.

The guide’s storytelling is often highlighted in reviews. For example, Eleonora mentions that their guide was very good at sharing stories and little curiosities about the series and locations, making the experience more engaging. The use of an audio guide in multiple languages also adds a layer of accessibility, making sure international visitors can follow along.

The overall value of the tour is strong considering the 13-hour duration and the variety of sights covered. While entrance fees to castles aren’t included, the price of $54 per person remains reasonable given the depth of experience, transportation, and guided commentary.

Practical Details

One of the biggest advantages of this experience is its straightforward logistics. Meeting at Buchanan Street makes it accessible for most travelers staying in Glasgow. The early start ensures you beat any potential crowds and allows for a full day of sightseeing.

The tour is not suitable for children under 5, but older children and teens who are fans of Outlander will probably love walking through the series’ iconic locations. Pets aren’t permitted unless they are assistance dogs, and travelers should avoid alcohol or drugs on the bus for safety reasons.

The flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund adds peace of mind, and booking with the “Reserve & Pay Later” option provides extra convenience, especially for spontaneous travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for Outlander enthusiasts eager to see filming locations in their natural setting. History lovers will appreciate the castles and towns that have preserved their character over centuries. For travelers interested in scenic drives, the views from Blackness Castle and the countryside are truly spectacular.

If you’re after a relaxed, well-paced day that combines cultural sights with pop culture, this tour offers excellent value. It’s not as suitable for those looking for an intensive castle-hopping experience or with tight budgets, as entrance fees and additional expenses may add up.

The Sum Up

This guided Outlander tour from Glasgow offers an authentic way to connect with Scotland’s cinematic and historic landscape. It caters beautifully to fans wanting to walk through their favorite series’ locations while also enjoying the natural beauty and charm of the Scottish countryside. The combination of castles, villages, and scenic views makes for a memorable day, packed with photo opportunities and stories.

The tour’s affordability, flexible booking options, and knowledgeable guides make it a reliable choice for anyone keen to explore beyond the city. Whether you’re a die-hard Outlander fan or simply love Scottish castles and landscapes, this experience presents a genuine, engaging way to spend your day.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes coach transportation from Glasgow and during the day to all the stops.

Do I need to pay for entrance fees?
No, entrance fees to Doune, Blackness, or Midhope Castle are not included, so you’ll need to budget for those separately if you wish to enter.

What is the duration of the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 13 hours, with several stops and free time built into the schedule.

Where do we meet for the tour?
Meet at Buchanan Street Bus Station, Glasgow, G2 3NW, stance 23 to 32, about 15 minutes before departure.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be at least 5 years old to participate. It’s best suited for fans and families with older children.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
Yes, audio guides are offered in Italian, French, Spanish, German, Portuguese, and Mandarin.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing, as some stops involve outdoor exploration.

Is there any accommodation included?
No, accommodation isn’t included; this is a day trip from Glasgow.

This tour offers a fantastic blend of cinematic magic, Scottish history, and scenic beauty, making it an ideal choice for a full, engaging day out.

You can check if your dates are available here: