From Edinburgh: 1-Day Outlander Experience with Attractions

If you’re a fan of Outlander, or just someone who loves Scottish castles, sweeping landscapes, and a good dose of history, this tour promises a day packed with memorable sights. We’re reviewing the 9-hour tour offered by Highland Experience Tours, which takes you out of the city and into the heart of Outlander country for a deep dive into the show’s most iconic locations.

What’s great about this experience? First, the expert guides bring these historic sites alive with stories and insights. Second, the variety of locations—from charming villages to grand castles—keeps the day interesting. Lastly, the stunning scenery along the way makes the drive as enjoyable as the stops.

The only thing to keep in mind? The itinerary can change, especially if filming schedules or weather necessitate adjustments. This can mean slight tweaks or substitutions, but rest assured, the core Outlander magic remains.

This tour fits best for series fans, history lovers, and those craving Scottish scenery, particularly travelers who appreciate a guided experience without the hassle of planning multiple day trips.

Good To Know

• Authentic filming locations: Including Castle Leoch at Doune Castle and Lallybroch at Midhope.
• Visiting iconic sites: Falkland village, Callendar House, and Hopetoun House.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, humorous guides who enhance the experience with storytelling.
• Great value: For around $97, you get a full day of sightseeing, transport, and admission fees.
• Flexible itinerary: Changes are possible depending on filming schedules and weather.
• Comfortable transport: Mini-bus journey through scenic countryside.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Full Breakdown of the Outlander Tour from Edinburgh

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off from inside Caffe Nero on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile—an easy-to-find, central spot that suits most travelers. From there, you’ll hop into a cozy mini-bus that comfortably seats the group, allowing for good conversation and a chance to enjoy the stunning Scottish landscapes as you leave the city behind. The journey lasts about 9 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip.

The driver-guide (notably Chloe, according to reviews) is a highlight—friendly, humorous, and incredibly knowledgeable. They’re the key to making the experience engaging, sharing tidbits of Scotland’s history along the way while keeping the group on schedule.

Falkland Village: A Step Back in Time

Your first stop is Falkland village, which served as Inverness in the 1940s for Outlander fans. The cobbled streets, well-preserved buildings, and the Bruce Fountain set a picture-perfect scene straight out of the series. As one reviewer aptly put it, Falkland “beautifully combines cinematic allure with rich historical roots.”

You’ll enjoy wandering the streets, snapping photos of the facades, and imagining Frank and Claire walking here. The village’s charm is amplified by the fact that it’s still a living community, maintaining its authentic Scottish character.

Doune Castle: Castle Leoch

Next up is Doune Castle, a highlight for Outlander fans and history buffs alike. Recognized as Castle Leoch, home of Clan MacKenzie, this 14th-century fortress offers a glimpse into medieval Scotland. You can explore the great hall, climb turret stairs, and enjoy sweeping views of the River Teith.

Beyond Outlander, Doune has appeared in Game of Thrones and Monty Python and the Holy Grail, adding to its cinematic credentials. The guides often share behind-the-scenes stories, which bring the castle’s history to life. Expect to spend around an hour here.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lallybroch at Midhope Castle

A must-see for Outlander enthusiasts is Midhope Castle, known as Lallybroch—Jamie Fraser’s ancestral home. While the interior is generally closed to visitors, the exterior remains evocative of the series’ emotional moments.

Tourists love walking around the grounds, capturing photos, and soaking in the atmosphere. One reviewer mentioned that even if filming schedules delay access, the exterior still makes for fantastic photos and a sense of connection to the series’ characters.

Callendar House and the Antonine Wall

In Falkirk, your next stop is Callendar House, a grand French-style mansion that served as the Duke of Sandringham’s kitchen in Outlander. The house hosts exhibits on Scotland’s social and industrial history, while the landscaped grounds include a section of the Antonine Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Walking through the gardens, you can imagine the history that played out here, and the house’s architecture offers a glimpse into 17th-century aristocratic life. For fans of historical detail, this stop offers both cinematic scenery and educational value.

Hopetoun House: Outlander and Scottish Baroque

The final major site is Hopetoun House, a stunning example of Scottish baroque architecture. Known as the Duke of Sandringham’s residence in Outlander, it boasts opulent interiors and scenic grounds.

The estate’s courtyard was the setting for Jamie’s ambush on Sandringham, and the grand exterior fits perfectly with the show’s depiction of aristocratic Scotland. The grounds, including a deer park that was transformed into the French countryside, offer picture-perfect views over the River Forth.

Your guide will share stories of the estate’s history and its cinematic use, making it a fitting finale to the day.

The Overall Experience

What we loved:

• The knowledgeable guides bring stories to life, making history and filming details engaging and fun.
• The stunning landscapes and authentic locations make the trip visually rewarding.
• The well-paced itinerary balances travel, exploration, and free time for photos and wandering.

What could be better:

• The itinerary might shift depending on filming schedules or weather, which could mean some locations are replaced or delayed.
• The interior access to Midhope Castle is limited, but this is common given filming restrictions.

Practical highlights:

• For $97, this tour offers good value, especially considering admission fees and transport are included.
• The scenic drive, coupled with informative commentary, turns a simple sightseeing day into a storytelling journey.
• The group size is manageable, fostering a comfortable environment for questions and interaction.

Review insights:
One traveler praised Chloe, noting her “kind, thoughtful, and very intelligent” approach, and that she added humor and depth to the trip. Another appreciated how Falkland combined “cinematic allure with rich historical roots,” making each stop meaningful.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This Outlander experience is ideal for series fans eager to see the filming locations in person, history enthusiasts interested in Scottish castles and estates, and scenery lovers who want a taste of rural Scotland. It’s perfect for those who prefer guided tours to avoid the hassle of driving or planning complex day trips.

While children over 3 are welcome, the focus on history and film might be more engaging for older kids or adults. Those with mobility issues should note some walking on uneven terrain, especially around the castles.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced blend of cinematic magic, historical sites, and beautiful landscapes, all wrapped into a single day from Edinburgh. The inclusion of well-known locations like Doune Castle, Falkland village, and Hopetoun House makes it a practical choice for Outlander fans eager to see filming sites firsthand.

The value for money is solid, given the admission fees and transport included in the price, and the guides’ local knowledge makes the experience richer and more engaging. While the itinerary may adapt to filming schedules or weather, the core Outlander charm remains unaffected.

If you’re looking for a comfortable, informative, and scenic day exploring Scotland’s iconic series, this tour is a fantastic choice. It suits travelers who want the convenience of a guided experience with plenty of opportunities for photos, storytelling, and stepping into the show’s world.

FAQ

Is hotel pick-up and drop-off included?
No, the tour begins inside Caffe Nero on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 9 hours, providing ample time to explore each location without feeling rushed.

Are admission fees included?
Yes, the price covers all entrance fees to the sites visited during the day.

Can I visit Midhope Castle interior?
Typically, the interior is closed to visitors, but the exterior remains open for photos and enjoyment. Filming schedules can affect access.

What should I bring?
Bring weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses, a passport or ID (for children), and shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 3 years old are welcome, but keep in mind the walking involved and interest in the locations.

Are the locations subject to change?
Yes, the tour provider reserves the right to alter the itinerary due to filming schedules or weather conditions.

How many people are in a group?
The tour typically operates with a small, manageable group, enhancing comfort and interaction.

In summary, this Outlander tour from Edinburgh offers a well-rounded day of Scottish scenery, historic castles, and beloved filming locations, guided by passionate experts. It’s a fantastic way to connect with the series’ world while enjoying Scotland’s timeless charm.

You can check if your dates are available here: