The Experience
Itinerary
Outlander Explorer
Our Outlander tour starts with a journey through Edinburgh's Old and New Town, before we head to our first stop, Midhope Castle* – the real-life ‘Lallybroch’ and Jamie Fraser’s home.
We then visit Doune Castle*, one of Scotland’s best preserved medieval castles and used as the filming location for ‘Castle Leoch’ in Outlander. The castle is also featured as Winterfell in Game of Thrones and Monty Python and the Holy Grail.
Our journey takes us on to the Kingdom of Fife, an area of great historical importance and the ancestral home of Scottish monarchs. We spend time for lunch in Culross, the fictional village of ‘Cranesmuir’ where Claire was accused of witchcraft. This charming village is the most complete example of a 17th and 18th century burgh in Scotland today.
After lunch we continue to the village of Falkland, used for filming 1940’s Inverness. With over 28 listed buildings it gives a good representation of this period.
Our final filming location of the day is the impressive Blackness Castle*, featured as Fort William in the series. The castle also treats us to awe-inspiring views of the iconic Forth Bridge, inscribed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Our Outlander tour wraps up as we return to Edinburgh in the early evening.
*Please see castle updates in grey box below.
Edinburgh → Edinburgh
Tour Highlights
What's Included
Optional Experiences
These experiences can be added at checkout and are operated by independent local providers.
Blackness Castle is an impressive 15th century fortress that resembles the shape of a ship, hence it’s nickname ‘'the ship that never sailed’. Originally, the castle was home to the Crichton family in the 1440s as well as serving as a state prison. Outlander fans recognise the castle as the filming location for Fort William, home to Captain Jack Randal’s worst acts of violence. It has also featured in the filming of Mary Queen of Scots and Outlaw King.
Built in the 14th century, the stronghold of Doune Castle is famous for having appeared in Monty Python, Game of Thrones, and Outlander. Be it the set for Winterfell as the home of Starks or the idyllic Castle Leoch as the seat of Clan MacKenzie, you will discover familiar filming locations in and around the castle as you ascend the battlements for views of distant mountains.
Visit the magical grounds of Midhope Castle, a beautiful tower house dating back to the 15th century. The castle featured in the Outlander TV series as Lallybroch; the family home of heroic heartthrob Jamie Fraser. While the interior is derelict, a selfie outside the instantly recognisable castle is a must for any Outlander fan.
Eilean Donan Castle is situated on a sea loch surrounded by magnificent Highland scenery. This magical and idyllic setting is what makes this one of Scotland’s most iconic attractions. Take a tour to find out about the castle's colourful history. Please note there are days when Eilean Donan Castle is closed to the public. Adult from £12. Tickets are subject to availability.
In the Moment
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Outlander tour departs from Edinburgh city centre. For departure details and pick-up location, visit our Departure Info page.
Your Outlander tour from Edinburgh spans about 9 hours*, offering ample time to explore castles, villages, and iconic filming spots.
*Length of tour may vary depending on traffic and weather conditions.
Yes! Every castle and attraction we visit on this tour has been featured in the Outlander series.
While exploring Outlander filming locations from both early and later seasons, you might encounter some spoilers. Your Highland Explorer guide will provide context on the scenes filmed there. Consider this your friendly heads-up on potential spoilers!
The chances of meeting him on your Outlander tour are rather slim. Still, one can dream!
From time to time, castles may close due to filming activity, in which case we'll visit an alternative attraction with Outlander connections.
If you’ve booked a castle add-on and it’s affected by a closure, you’ll get access to the alternative attraction at no extra cost. If you haven’t pre-booked a castle visit, tickets for the alternative attraction can be purchased on site.
For the latest closure updates, visit the 'Itinerary & Departure' tab.
