Edinburgh and Outlander by Rail from London 3-Day Tour

Discover the magic of Edinburgh and Outlander locations on a 3-day rail adventure from London. This experience offers a well-rounded taste of Scotland’s historic capital and its cinematic treasures, all with the comfort of reserved train seats and expert-guided tours. Whether you’re a history buff, Outlander fan, or just craving a quick Scottish escape, this trip packs plenty into a manageable itinerary.

What I love about this tour: First, the combination of a scenic train journey with reserved seating makes travel comfortable and stress-free. Second, the inclusion of Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace grounds your experience in centuries of Scottish history. Third, the Outlander filming locations offer a unique peek into Scotland’s scenery and set design.

One potential consideration is the packed schedule—especially on Day 2, which involves multiple castle visits and driving through Fife. While it’s a great way to see many sights, some may prefer a slightly slower pace or more time at each stop.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, visually stunning introduction to Edinburgh, its surroundings, and Outlander’s iconic scenery, all without the hassle of planning or driving themselves.

Good To Know

• Comfortable rail travel with reserved seating from London makes for a relaxing start.
• Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace offer a deep dive into Scottish royal history.
• The Hop-on Hop-off bus provides flexible city exploration, with 14 stops including historic sites and lively neighborhoods.
• Outlander fans will appreciate visits to Midhope Castle (Lallybroch), Doune Castle (Castle Leoch/Winterfell), and Blackness Castle (Fort William).
• Guided commentary enriches each stop, offering stories behind the sights.
• The tour balances history, scenery, and TV lore for a well-rounded experience, though the tight schedule may not suit everyone seeking a leisurely pace.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Detailed Look at the 3-Day Edinburgh and Outlander Rail Tour

Day 1: Arriving in Edinburgh and Exploring Historic Highlights

The trip kicks off with an early morning train from London King’s Cross, departing at 7:00 am and arriving in Edinburgh at 11:20 am. The reserved seats mean you can settle in comfortably without worrying about last-minute seat bookings or overcrowding — a big plus for a stress-free start.

Once in Edinburgh, your included entrance to Edinburgh Castle offers a perfect introduction. Perched atop Castle Rock, this fortress has been a military, royal, and prison site for over a millennium. The stories shared by the guide, especially about the Stone of Destiny, add depth to the visit, helping us appreciate its role in Scottish identity. The castle’s views over the city alone are worth the visit, providing a panoramic vista of the rooftops and distant hills.

After exploring the castle, your hop-on hop-off bus ticket allows you to navigate Edinburgh at your own pace. We loved the flexibility this provided, especially as we hopped off at the Grassmarket, a lively historic market square with incredible views of the castle, and the John Knox House, which offers a glimpse into 15th-century Scottish life. The bus tour covers 14 notable locations, including Holyrood Palace, the Queen’s official residence in Edinburgh, and the elegant Georgian New Town.

The commentary from the guides is insightful, blending anecdotes with historical context. Many reviewers note the value of having a knowledgeable guide to bring the city’s stories to life—something that really elevates the experience.

Day 2: Outlander Locations and Scottish Countryside

The focus shifts on Day 2 to the scenic and cinematic parts of Scotland, with a full-day guided tour of Outlander filming sites. The day begins with a drive through the scenic Kingdom of Fife, a region steeped in history and regal tradition.

The first stop is Midhope Castle, famously known as Lallybroch in the Outlander series. It’s a real, working farm with an atmospheric ruin that instantly transports fans into Jamie Fraser’s world. Reviewers mention that it’s a highlight for Outlander lovers, providing a tangible connection to the series.

Next up is Doune Castle, a remarkably well-preserved medieval fortress that also featured as Castle Leoch in Outlander, as well as Winterfell in Game of Thrones. One reviewer called Doune “one of Scotland’s best-preserved castles,” and noted that it offers numerous spots for photos and exploring. The castle’s atmospheric courtyards and towers let visitors imagine the series’ scenes unfolding around them.

The tour then visits Culross, a charming 17th-century village used as the fictional Cranesmuir. Many mention how authentic the village feels, with its cobbled streets and historic buildings, making it a favorite for fans who want more than just castles. The guide highlights the series’ filming history here, adding an extra layer of appreciation.

Finally, the day ends at Blackness Castle, which played Fort William in Outlander. The castle’s dramatic silhouette against the Firth of Forth makes it a memorable stop. Reviewers note the awe-inspiring views of the Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and mention how the contrast between the rugged castle and modern engineering is fascinating. The day concludes back in Edinburgh around 5:30 pm—giving travelers time to relax or explore more of the city in the evening.

Day 3: Free Time and City Exploration

Your final day in Edinburgh is all about choice. The tour ends with free time until late afternoon, giving you an opportunity to revisit favorite sites, stroll the medieval Old Town, or take in the panoramic views from Carlton Hill.

Most travelers enjoy walking the cobbled streets, soaking in the mix of medieval alleyways and Georgian architecture. The Stone of Destiny on Castle Hill remains a must-see, symbolizing Scottish sovereignty. Many reviewers mention that wandering aimlessly around Old and New Towns reveals hidden gems—quaint cafes, unique shops, and scenic viewpoints.

You might also want to visit some of the city’s museums or simply enjoy last-minute shopping on Princes Street. The tour’s flexible schedule means you can tailor your final hours to your interests before returning to the train station for the evening departure back to London at 5:30 pm, arriving at 10:09 pm.

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Practicalities and Value

The return train journey with reserved seats is a key advantage, allowing you to relax without worrying about seat allocation, especially during busy travel times. The cost covers all major elements—entry fees, guided tours, and transportation—making it a convenient, all-in-one package.

While the tour is quite full on Day 2, reviews consistently emphasize the quality of guides’ storytelling and the stunning scenery, which make the packed schedule worthwhile. The outdoor stops like Doune and Blackness Castles are often praised for their atmosphere and historical authenticity, making them more than just filming locations.

The guided Outlander tour is operated by Highland Explorer Tours, known for their engaging storytelling. Many reviewers appreciated the mix of educational content and scenic drives, describing the guides as knowledgeable and friendly.

Things to Keep in Mind

• The tour is not suitable for children under 5 or those with mobility issues, as some sites involve walking over uneven terrain.
• You’ll need to bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, snacks, and a camera.
• The schedule is tightly packed, so if you prefer a slower pace or more in-depth exploration, this may feel rushed.
• The tour is unescorted on Days 1 and 3, which means you’ll need to manage your own time and navigation, but the included hop-on hop-off bus and train tickets make self-guided exploration straightforward.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day Edinburgh and Outlander tour strikes a solid balance between historical and cinematic interests, wrapped in the comfort of reserved train seats and guided excursions. The mix of iconic castles, vibrant city neighborhoods, and Outlander filming sites provides a varied experience that appeals to many types of travelers.

For those who enjoy storytelling—whether from the guides or the series itself—this trip offers a tangible connection to Scotland’s past and its popular culture. It’s particularly suited for fans of Outlander, history enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a snapshot of Edinburgh’s charm without the hassle of planning every detail.

The tour’s value lies in its comprehensive itinerary, expert-guided commentary, and scenic travel, making it a smart choice for a three-day Scottish escape from London.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers? Yes, solo travelers are welcome. The tour provides structured activities and opportunities to meet others, especially during the guided parts.

What’s included in the price? The package covers return train journeys from London, reserved seats, entrance to Edinburgh Castle, a hop-on hop-off city bus tour, and a full-day Outlander filming locations tour.

Are meals included? No, lunch and other meals are not included so you should bring snacks or plan to eat during free time.

How flexible is the schedule on Day 3? You have until late afternoon to explore independently, so you can revisit sights or relax as you wish. The tour ends back at the meeting point.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, snacks, and water. Scottish weather can be unpredictable, so layering is advised.

Can I join the tour with children? The tour isn’t suitable for children under 5, and the itinerary is quite full, so it’s better suited for older children and adults.

What if some castles are closed? The schedule might be adjusted if Midhope or Doune Castle are closed. The tour operator give you a similar experience, but some locations may be substituted.

What are the train times? Outbound: Departure from London King’s Cross at 7:00 am, arriving in Edinburgh at 11:20 am. Return: Departs Edinburgh at 5:30 pm, arriving in London at 10:09 pm.

Is the tour guided on all days? No, only on Day 2 during the Outlander locations. Days 1 and 3 are self-guided with included transport and entry tickets.

In summary, this tour offers a well-organized and immersive look at Edinburgh and Outlander scenery, perfect for those wanting a mix of history, TV magic, and Scottish scenery—all in a manageable 3-day trip.

You can check if your dates are available here: