scotland travel show outlander

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Claire Beauchamp Randall, a nurse in World War II, mysteriously goes back in time to Scotland in 1743. There, she meets a dashing Highland warrior and gets drawn into an epic rebellion. Claire Beauchamp Randall, a nurse in World War II, mysteriously goes back in time to Scotland in 1743. There, she meets a dashing Highland warrior and gets drawn into an epic rebellion. Claire Beauchamp Randall, a nurse in World War II, mysteriously goes back in time to Scotland in 1743. There, she meets a dashing Highland warrior and gets drawn into an epic rebellion.

• Ronald D. Moore
• Caitríona Balfe
• Sam Heughan
• Sophie Skelton
• 1K User reviews
• 51 Critic reviews
• 39 wins & 87 nominations total

Episodes 101

Photos 1567

Top cast 99+

• Claire Randall …

• Jamie Fraser

• Brianna Randall Fraser …

• Roger Wakefield …

• Murtagh Fraser

• Young Ian Murray …

• Lizzie Wemyss

• Frank Randall …

• Dougal MacKenzie …

• Rupert MacKenzie

• Keziah Beardsley …

• Laoghaire MacKenzie …

• Ronnie Sinclair

• Jocasta Cameron

• All cast & crew
• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

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• Trivia The actors portraying the 18th century Scots did a sort of boot camp to learn Gaelic and make sure it was word perfect. Ironically the one person who knew how to speak Gaelic is Caitriona Balfe who plays Clare who does not know how to speak it.
• Goofs In a few episodes, characters say"OK." An American term that didn't come into use until the 19th Century.
• Crazy credits The opening song changes from season to season to reflect what's happening in the story line. In the first half of Season 2 (which is set in France), part of the lyrics are in French. In the second half of Season 2 (which is mostly about preparing for war), there is a militaristic drum roll added to the opening song. During Season 3, there are tribal drums added because much of the season is set in the West Indies. In Season 4, bluegrass fiddle and banjos are added, plus some of the lyrics are sung with a Southern accent because the season is set mostly in America.
• Connections Featured in Outlander: An Epic Adaptation (2015)
• Soundtracks The Skye Boat Song (uncredited) Traditional Scottish air with lyrics by Sir Harold Boulton New lyrics by Robert Louis Stevenson

User reviews 1K

• mcampbelljh1
• Aug 10, 2014
• How many seasons does Outlander have? Powered by Alexa
• What is the political background for Outlander? What are Jacobites?
• What is the name of the theme song?
• August 9, 2014 (United States)
• United States
• Official site
• Highland Saga
• Doune Castle, Doune, Stirling, Scotland, UK (Castle Leoch)
• Tall Ship Productions
• Story Mining & Supply Co.
• Left Bank Pictures
• See more company credits at IMDbPro

Technical specs

• Runtime 1 hour
• Dolby Digital

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14 Outlander Filming Locations to Visit in Scotland

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The perfect antidote to " droughtlander "—or even the stretch between new episodes—is planning a vacation to visit some of the beautiful castles, villages, and highlands in Scotland where Outlander is filmed. Fortunately the show returns to the small screen this week with an oversized season 7 , but that hasn't stopped us from daydreaming about seeing the sights in real life.

From the picturesque hill where Claire first traveled through the stones to the castle where scenes at Lallybroch were shot, here are fourteen Outlander locations worth planning a trip around.

Kinloch Rannoch

You’ll Recognize It As: Craigh na Dun

While the stone circle that Claire time travels through at Craigh na Dun isn't real (it's made of styrofoam), the surrounding scenery at Kinloch Rannoch very much is.

“I have a soft spot for this magical place,” Maril Davis, the show’s Executive Producer, told Travel + Leisure . “It truly lives up to the 'four seasons in one day' phenomenon that’s common in Scotland. While shooting up there for season two, we experienced bright blue skies, snow, rain, and gale force winds—all in the span of one hour!"

You’ll Recognize It As: Inverness

While Claire's story begins in 1940s Inverness, those scenes were shot in the village of Falkland, just an hour's drive north of Edinburgh. You can actually stay at the guesthouse featured in the show—called the Covenanter Hotel in real life—which looks out onto the Bruce Fountain where Jamie's ghost is first seen. If you visit, Davis recommends going to Campbell's Coffee House for a "mean toastie on a cold Scottish morning!”

Doune Castle

You’ll Recognize It As: Castle Leoch

This 14th-century castle , just 33 miles northeast of Glasgow, stands in for the fictional home of Colum MacKenzie and his clan in Outlander , but this isn't the only time you've seen Doune Castle on screen. Much of Monty Python and the Holy Grail was shot here and as were the Winterfell scenes in the pilot of Game Of Thrones.

You’ll Recognize It As: Cranesmuir

The charming village of Culross stands in for Cranesmuir, the home of Claire's friend Geillis Duncan, while the area behind Culross Palace is where Claire's herb garden at Castle Leoch is filmed.

Blackness Castle

You’ll Recognize It As: Fort William

This 15th-century fortress doubles as Black Jack Randall's Fort William, where Jamie is flogged in season one. Blackness Castle got the nickname "the ship that never sailed" because of how much it is shaped like a boat.

Hopetoun House

You’ll Recognize It As: Duke of Sandringham's Residence

Scenes from season one inside of the Duke of Sandringham's home were shot in the Red Drawing Room at Hopetoun House , located in the outskirts of Edinburgh. Exteriors of the estate were also used for Parisian street scenes in season two.

Midhope Castle

You’ll Recognize It As: Lallybroch

Also known as Broch Tuarach in the show, the exteriors of this 15th-century castle stand in for Jamie's home in the series. While exteriors are intact, the building is derelict inside. To visit, you'll need to obtain a special vehicle pass from Hopetoun Estate.

Linlithgow Palace

You’ll Recognize It As: Wentworth Prison

Just a 25-minute train ride west of Edinburgh, the entrance and corridors of this 15th-century palace where Mary Queen of Scots was born are much nicer in real life than the fictional prison where Jamie was tortured by Black Jack Randall in the show.

Dysart Harbour

You’ll Recognize It As: Le Havre

When Jamie and Claire escape to France, they dock at the French port of Le Havre. In reality, those scenes were filmed in Scotland at the historic Dysart Harbour and Harbourmaster's House not too far from Edinburgh.

Drummond Castle Gardens

You’ll Recognize It As: Versailles

While the castle itself isn't open to the public, you can pretend you're attending a party at Versailles like Claire and Jamie in season two while visiting the gardens at Drummond Castle .

You’ll Recognize It From: The opening credits

While Glencoe never appears in any specific scene, you'll know this landscape immediately from the opening credits of every episode. This highland spot is located near Glenfinnan Monument, where Bonnie Prince Charlie started the Jacobite Rising of 1745.

You’ll Recognize It From: Aunt Jocasta's plantation, River Run

Jamie's mother's sister Aunt Jocasta lives off the Cape Fear River (hence the name of her mansion) near Cross Creek. But the Outlander crew had to recreate America in Scotland, and Creiff stood in for North Carolina.

Specifically, the scenes are thought to have been filmed in the Abercairny Estates, located roughly an hour and 20 minutes from Edinburgh.

"[It's] obviously disappointing that we couldn't film in North Carolina, but it would have been very sad to leave our Scottish crew in Scotland," executive producer Maril Davis said in an interview with Access. But she feels that the show's art department has " absolutely transformed the world."

Faskally Forest, Scotland

You’ll Recognize It From: The Mohawk Village

In season four, Faskally Forest, which is located just 30 minutes from Kinloch Rannoch stood in for the Mohawk Village. "[For] probably about a year we researched these longhouses that the Mohawk would build, and we essentially built a village. For literally a month, this Scottish park was taken over by [our cast and crew]," executive producer Matthew Roberts has said of this particular set.

Fraser's Ridge

While Outlander author Diana Gabaldon says the fictional Frasier's Ridge is located "up near Boone and Blowing Rock," Scotland stood in for North Carolina during filming for seasons four, five, six , and seven, but it's unclear exactly where the scenes at Claire and Jamie's American home were shot. “There is a right-to-roam law in Scotland, where you can pretty much go anywhere you want,” executive producer Marin Davis told the New York Post . “Because of that, we like to try to protect some of these people [who live near shooting locations] so they don’t have too many people visiting their properties.”

Lyndsey Matthews is the Destination News Editor for AFAR; previously she was a Lifestyle Editor across all of Hearst Digital Media's brands, and a digital editor at Martha Stewart Weddings and Travel + Leisure .

As the digital director for Town & Country, Caroline Hallemann covers culture, entertainment, and a range of other subjects 

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Outlander Tours in Scotland

Follow in the footsteps of Jamie and Claire on an Outlander getaway and explore the show’s top filming locations on a guided tour or road trip. Get ready to see key attractions that feature in the hit TV and book series on an expert-curated Outlander tour.

VISIT SCOTLAND ON AN OUTLANDER TOUR

Discover the historic sites and beautiful scenery that inspired Diana Gabaldon’s famous Outlander books on one of these Outlander Scottish tours.

See the series come to life when you opt for an Outlander themed self-drive or privately guided Scotland travel package . Our itineraries are crafted with the insider knowledge of our local travel experts. This means you can be sure you’ll visit the best sites from the TV show and beyond.

Book with us and you’ll have your own dedicated travel consultant who will arrange everything, including handpicked accommodation, for you. You’ll also get personal recommendations, access to our 24/7 helpline and plenty of other benefits.

So get ready to immerse yourself in Jamie and Claire’s world on a hassle-free trip exploring the Scottish Highlands and Lowlands.

Get in touch and we'll happily plan your Outlander tour. You can call our Scotland team on +44 (0)131 344 4630 or via our toll-free numbers . Alternatively, reach us via our contact form or live chat .

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Scotland tours based on Outlander

Visit the filming locations and other sites from Outlander on a themed road trip, or a private tour with a knowledgeable local driver-guide.

Outlander Experience

The outlander trail, privately guided tours in scotland.

Enjoy flexible sightseeing and more Scottish cultural insights on a trip with your own local tour guide driving you around.

Scottish Highlands & Isle of Skye - Private

Scenic scotland express - private, classic scotland - private, complete scotland - private, self-drive tours in scotland.

Explore the Highlands and beyond on a road trip where the itinerary has been designed by local experts. Plus, a dedicated travel consultant will book your accommodation, activities and rental car.

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Scottish highlands & isle of skye, grand tour of scotland, scottish highlands & north coast 500, classic scotland at leisure, experience scotland your way.

We have tours for all varieties of travel styles and interests. See our options for exploring Scotland below.

Guided Small Groups

Privately guided, culinary experience, scottish heritage tours, the scottish highlands, best sellers, all travel styles, about scottish outlander tours.

Choose Nordic Visitor and our Edinburgh-based travel experts will use their local knowledge to create an unforgettable Outlander-themed adventure for you.

Simply pick the way of travelling that suits you from a range of Scottish self-drive tours and privately guided packages in Scotland . Read on to find out which will suit you best.

• Discover the best Outlander filming locations in Scotland

GO ON A SELF-DRIVE TOUR OF OUTLANDER SITES IN SCOTLAND

Opting for a self-drive tour will give you the freedom to see the attractions you want while going at your own pace. And although you may be travelling independently, it won’t feel that way because on a Nordic Visitor road trip you can expect:

• A dedicated travel consultant who’ll arrange your trip
• A hand-noted, personalised itinerary and route map
• 24/7 phone support during your adventure for peace of mind
• Handpicked accommodation at your chosen price point

Plus, these tours are designed to be flexible so you can customise your trip with extra nights or additional attractions. For instance, you could add extra nights in Inverness and take a day tour to Loch Ness .

• Take a look at these ideas for 7-day road trips in Scotland for inspiration

VENTURE BEHIND THE SCENES OF OUTLANDER WITH A LOCAL GUIDE

Alternatively, you can explore Scotland with a knowledgeable local on a privately guided tour package, that’s completely hassle-free. This is also the perfect way to travel if want to gain extra insight into the historical events portrayed in the series.

For instance, learn about the Jacobite Rising, which came to an end on Culloden Battlefield in the mid-18th century. You’ll also find out about the fascinating history of Bonnie Prince Charlie. And discover what life was like for Scottish clans like the Mackenzies, MacDonalds and of course, the Frasers.

• If you’re interested in the local history, make sure to read this blog on Scottish clans and ancestry: top sites to visit in Scotland

You can tailor your privately guided tour package by adding extra nights in Edinburgh at the beginning or end of the guided portion of your trip.

Extending your stay here will give you more time to explore Scotland’s cosmopolitan capital city. Beyond Edinburgh’s top attractions, you’ll find winding cobbled alleyways, lush parks, and endless fine dining options.

MEET OTHER OUTLANDER FANS ON A GROUP TOUR

You could also opt for a Scotland guided small group trip . Although not solely focused on Outlander sites, you’ll still see locations from the show on many of these tours.

A guided group package is ideal if you want to visit a few of the show’s top filming locations with an expert driver-guide to answer your questions. Plus, sightseeing in a group of up to just 15 guests means you’ll enjoy a more personal experience than you’d get in a larger group.

• Read an interview with a Nordic Visitor travel expert on the top Outlander sites to visit in Scotland

SEE THE OUTLANDER FILM LOCATIONS IN PERSON

No matter how you choose to travel on one of these Scotland Outlander tour packages you’ll want to take in the best of the show’s sights.

You’ll find that Nordic Visitor’s Outlander themed tours of Scotland showcase many of the prime filming locations featured in the series. These include Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile and Fife’s quaint fishing villages. As well as imposing Doune Castle, which you might recognise as “Castle Leoch”.

The vastness of Rannoch Moor and the mysterious Clava Cairns are also favourites with fans of the show. The cairns are reminiscent of the fictional “Craigh na Dun” standing stones – Claire’s magical portal.

You’ll find more must-see filming locations in Edinburgh and the nearby Kingdom of Fife:

• The Royal Mile
• Hopetoun House

These are some of the key Scottish castles that star in the show:

• Blackness Castle

Doune Castle

• Midhope Castle
• Craigmillar Castle

And don’t miss other beautiful locations associated with the series:

• Loch Katrine
• Trossachs National Park
• Fort William

With a few fans of the Outlander books and TV series in our midst, we’re ideally placed for creating your Outlander experience in Scotland. So get in touch with us and we’ll take care of all the details to plan your dream Outlander trip.

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This is our second tour with Nordic Visitor. Agents used before the tour were always very prompt with responses to our questions. During the tour, we found the accommodation perfect, guide very informative and friendly, and the driver got used to where we needed to go without any problems. We would definitely use Nordic Visitor again!

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Throughout the years we have travelled a lot, but never with a group tour. This trip was our first time and it did not disappoint. The tour guide, the bus driver, our fellow passengers, the weather, accommodation, variety of activities, and how smoothly everything went makes me question why we never toured like this before!

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It was an unforgettable holiday. They took care of everything, and we got to wonder and explore with little hassle. If you want to visit Scotland (or anywhere else Nordic Visitor has tours) they are the way to do it. Already talking about our next adventure with Nordic Visitor.

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We are two middle-aged women who had never been to the UK before. My sister-in-law always wanted to go to Scotland, so I started researching and came upon Nordic Visitor through internet searches. I checked for reviews and found the company to be highly recommended. I started corresponding with Kirsten. She was extremely kind, very helpful and was able to put my nervous mind at ease. The package she put together for us was perfect! From my first email, the airport pick up and drop off service, and the tour with Dave, it was an indescribably fantastic experience!

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This is our second trip in two years to Scotland with Nordic Visitor, and we are seriously thinking about another. I can't thank Chris enough for his patience and expertise when booking this trip.

The tour package materials were top notch. Spiral bound itinerary, recommended activities, restaurant recommendations and the large-scale road map of Scotland were a nice touch. Magdalena, our Nordic Visitor representative, responded promptly to our questions. Accomodation was all great.

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For our 50th wedding anniversary, we trusted Nordic Visitor to make our vacation a memorable one, and they made it beyond special. Chris, our tour planner, did everything to accommodate our needs and answered our questions quickly. It was an absolutely perfect vacation!

We booked a 4-day Christmas Tour of Edinburgh which included hotel accommodation, a walking tour of the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle, a day tour of the Highlands and Lowlands, castles, and lochs, and also a whisky distillery tour. The hotel was in an amazing location near the Christmas Markets and popular attractions. The day tours were such a wonderful way to experience the countryside outside of Edinburgh. We also added a driving service to drive us to and from the airport and the drivers were so lovely. The care package left at the hotel consisting of maps and suggested eateries was such a delightful bonus. We loved that every aspect of our trip was planned and ready for us once we arrived which diminished any travel stress that one may experience when travelling abroad.

We were in good hands

As first-time visitors to Edinburgh, and senior citizens, our choice to use Nordic Visitor was an excellent one. The welcome package we received at the hotel was really helpful, with our tour vouchers, maps and restaurant recommendations. We would not have known what hotel to select and the one selected for us was perfect. The choice of tours offered was perfect for a 5-day visit. So glad to learn about the Royal Mile and visit the castle. The trip through the Highlands and Loch Ness was beautiful. Our travel agent, Rebecca, always quickly responded to email questions prior to departure. Thank you! Nordic Visitor made our trip easy and rewarding. We were in good hands.

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Nordic Visitor is a highly professional tour company. From beginning to end, we have no complaints. Our travel consultant, Chris, was very quick to answer all our questions from start to finish. Could not be more pleased.

Absolutely wonderful!

Our trip was absolutely wonderful! Magda was great to work with and helped us through the whole process. Everyone we worked with from the beginning through the end of the trip was absolutely marvellous.

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Whether you travel independently or with a guide in your Nordic Visitor package, you will receive personalised service from a designated travel consultant and high-quality travel documents. What's more, all self-drive clients receive a hand-marked map that outlines the driving route, overnights and highlights along the way. Travel with ease knowing that Nordic Visitor has close professional relationships with local service providers , which are carefully selected by our staff for their consistently high standards.

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Get in touch with us to book your dream Outlander trip to Scotland. Our Edinburgh-based travel consultants will use their local knowledge to answer questions you may have before your trip.

Our Scottish phone number is +44 (0)131 344 4630

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15 epic Outlander sites in Scotland you can visit in 2024

If watching Outlander has given you a push to explore Scotland, perhaps in a quest to find a real life Jamie Fraser or just to wallow in the romantic scenery that the books and tv series inspire then you’ll be wanting to know all about the Outlander sites in Scotland that you can visit.

The Outlander locations are all over Scotland so no matter where you base yourself when visiting the country you’ll be able to fit some in.

I was a fan of the Outlander books when they came out, having been urged to read them by my mum, and loved the tv series too (sadly I still have some to watch – I should get on to that!).

I love that it’s ignited a passion in some travellers to Scotland to see some of the history, filming locations and soak in that scenery that is so prevalent. I mean, I love Scotland but if it takes a popular tv series to fire up others so be it!

A note from the writer: Hey! I’m Kirsty and I’m a UK travel expert – while I grew up in Scotland, as an adult I now return to visit almost every year – there’s so much to see! Shout (or comment below) if you have any questions about your next trip and I’ll get back to you ASAP.

This article probably contains affiliate links. This means that if you buy or book after clicking, I may get a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

Some of the sites in this post are actual Outlander filming locations for the tv series and some are simply sites that are either mentioned in the books or were inspiration to Diana Gabaldon when writing.

As the stories took place in the time of the Jacobite Rising many of these Outlander places to visit in Scotland are actually real historical sites.

Outlander fans visiting Scotland should definitely look to add some to your itineraries though!

Outlander tours in Scotland If you want to see as many of these sites as possible in a limited time then it’s worth checking out some Outlander tours where you’ll be escorted to lots of these locations and often with a knowledgeable fan showing you it all. Check these out if you don’t fancy sorting your own itinerary:

• Full day Outlander tour from Edinburgh
• One day Outlander tour from Glasgow
• Loch Ness, Outlander and Whisky tour from Inverness

Map of Outlander Locations

So you can get a feel for where these Outlander sights in Scotland are here’s a map of them:

Outlander sites in Edinburgh and nearby

Since most people start their Scotland trips in the capital city of Edinburgh it makes sense to start here in our quest for Outlander filming locations and sites. Most are just outside the city and can be reached by public transport or as part of an organised tour.

1. Bakehouse Close

In Edinburgh itself, and while exploring the Royal Mile attractions in the Old Town head off behind the Museum of Edinburgh to find Bakehouse Close. This is on of many old streets that you can wander down and get a sense of how Edinburgh looked in years gone by. There’s a real character to the place and as you’re starting to get away from the castle, it’s a little quieter to the top of the Royal Mile.

Bakehouse Close was used in the filming of season 3 when Claire is reunited with Jamie at his print shop. Tweedale Close, further up the Royal Mile by John Knox House is also worth checking out and was used as a market place in season 3 & 4.

Check out – Outlander walking tour

2. Craigmillar Castle

Still in the city of Edinburgh, and a nearby castle that many people overlook in their quest to see the main one! Craigmillar Castle is medieval and was built in the 1300s – well before the time of Jamie and the Frasers. It’s an easy one to visit from Edinburgh as it’s well serviced by buses.

In the Outlander TV series Craigmillar Castle was used as a prison in season 3.

3. Hopetoun House & Midhope Castle

Not far from the centre of Edinburgh is Midhope Castle which sits with the Hopetoun Estate. Outlander fans will know this cute castle as Lallybroch which was the home of the Jamie Fraser.

The stately home was also used in the filming of Outlander and provided the home of the Duke of Sandringham in season 1.

You can visit both but the small Midhope Castle is on the outskirts of the estate and you need to purchase a separate ticket. You can’t go inside Midhope either as it’s a ruin – the interior wasn’t used for filming. Check out their site here if you want to visit. It’s often a part of Outlander tours as well.

4. Linlithgow Palace

This stunning ruin of a palace was actually the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. It’s perhaps not as palatial as the name might have you think but it’s a really interesting place to visit. You can climb to the top of the palace and get great views from all around as well and there’s plenty of outdoor space for a picnic.

In the Outlander tv series Linlithgow Palace was used as Wentworth prison where Jamie was held in season 1.

5. Blackness Castle

Again, not far from Edinburgh and overlooking the Firth of Forth is Blackness Castle. It dates back to the 15th century and was used as a garrison and prison over the years. It’s quite imposing but looks even better with the backdrop of the Forth Bridges in the background too.

Blackness Castle was used as the location for Fort William where Jack Randall was based in season 1.

Outlander sites in Fife and central Scotland

Let’s head just ever so slightly north over into Fife and Central Scotland (my old stomping ground) to visit some of the best filming locations for Outlander.

The small ‘Outlander village’ of Culross is one I’ve visited a lot over the years and always loved it. It has such a wonderful feel to it, an immense history and some great views over the water too. You can explore the cobbled streets and admire the quirky buildings that are still around in this village where it feels like time has stopped!

Culross was used as Cranesmuir, the village in seasons 1 and 2 where Geillis Duncan lived. It was also used as Claire’s herb garden at Castle Leoch.

As if that wasn’t enough, a house in Culross was used as Balriggan Cottage in season 4 was which was the home of Laoghaire and her daughter Joan .

7. Falkland

This is a gorgeous wee village and quite typical of many of Scotland’s small towns with small houses around a monument in the centre. For many it’s now an iconic view that reminds them of the beginning of that amazing series.

Falkland was the scene of 1940s Inverness and where the tv series starts as Claire goes on holiday there. If you want the ultimate Outlander experience you might even want to stay at the Covenanter Hotel and look out for Jamie’s ghost! It will book up early so check if it’s available here .

8. Doune Castle

Each year goes by and another iconic tv series or film seems to use Doune Castle as its location. It’s been in Outlander, Game of Thrones and Outlaw King but many people will know it from the old classic Monty Python! It’s situated near Stirling and on the edge of the Trossachs, a beautiful area that’s well worth exploring if you can.

Doune Castle in this iteration was Castle Leoch which was home to Colum MacKenzie in Season 1 of Outlander. It was also where Claire took a visit to

Outlander sites in Inverness and the Highlands

The Highlands of Scotland are a great place to learn about the Jacobite rising and see some sites that are related to Outlander. Not so much was filmed here but there is much to see for fans.

9. Culloden Battlefield

The Battle of Culloden is something that Claire knew all about as she found herself in the past. She also knew it didn’t end well for the clans.

Culloden Moor battlefield is an easy day trip from Inverness as it’s located just outside the city. The battlefield is a solemn place to come and think about the lives lost here, much of them from Scottish clans. If you want to know more about the history of the battle then the visitors centre is great to learn more and ask questions – the history can be complicated but they do a great job of explaining the lead up to it all and what happened.

For Outlander fans you’ll want to look out for the Clan Fraser marker. Do remember that it’s a scene of loss and a burial site – not the place for selfies.

10. Clava Cairns

Almost directly around the corner from Culloden Battlefield is one of Scotland’s ancient sites that is also one of the inspirations for Craigh Na Dun, the stone circle that Claire visits and takes her back in time.

Clava Cairns consists of circular burial cairns that you can walk around as well as many standing stones. There’s even a cleft stone that looks like it’s been split – just like in the books!

While there isn’t an exact place for the Outlander stones in the series – they made their own stone circle – this one is a great option especially since it’s so close to Culloden.

11. Fort George

Fort George was built after the Battle of Culloden and as a consequence of it. It was used as a base for the army and would show the strength of the English after the battle and to squash any further attempts of an uprising. You can learn about the history of the place, including what life was like for soldiers there.

It’s really not far at all from Inverness , Culloden and Clava Cairns so it makes sense to include a visit if you can. Look out for dolphins from the ramparts!

12. Highland Folk museum

On the A9 at Newtonmore, south of Inverness is a really good and interesting museum that is well worth a visit. Not only can you learn about Highland life in the time of Outlander, but it was also a filming location too!

With replicas of the kinds of houses that highlanders on crofts lived in it was used to film any scenes like that including in season one when rent was being collected by Dougal.

Other Outlander Sites in Scotland worth visiting

These sites will complement any Outlander fan’s trip, especially if the history of the time is of interest.

13. Callanish

A visit to the standing stones of Callanish isn’t just something you can tack on to a trip around some Outlander sites because it takes a much more determined person to travel to it. It’s located on one of Scotland’s islands , in the Outer Hebrides on the Isle of Lewis.

Like Clava Cairns, it was one of the inspirations for Craigh Na Dun and is one of Scotland’s most impressive stone circles. If you want to feel the magic of Outlander then this has to be worth adding to your list!

14. Glenfinnan

To the west of Fort William is a beautiful spot that is rather more famous for another book lately but has a lot to offer for fans of Outlander too.

Glenfinnan brings tourists looking for a glimpse of the steam train going over the viaduct – yes the Harry Potter train – but look the other way and you’ll see a towering monument.

This monument marks the place where Bonnie Prince Charlie came ashore and from where the Jacobite rising really began, eight months before the Battle of Culloden. There’s a great little museum here too that I recommend spending some time in. The top of the monument gives stunning views around too!

15. Glencoe

Finally we have the wonderful Glencoe which I always suggest as a place to visit for those who haven’t been to the Highlands. It’s a stunning place to walk and explore for anyone but for people interested in Outlander and clan history it also has something else to offer.

Glencoe has a gruesome history and it’s where there was massacre of the MacDonald Clan. It’s a long and complicated history but they apparently were too slow to pledge allegiance to William of Orange, the king who took over after James VII of Scotland was deposed. It was a precursor to much of the events of the Jacobite Rising and the clans fighting against the English.

The scenery might be familiar to those who watched the TV show as it was used in the opening credits.

FAQs about Scottish Outlander Locations

Is lallybroch a real place in scotland.

Lallybroch itself is a fictional location but the filming location for the TV series is Midhope Castle just outside Edinburgh

Does Craigh na Dun exist?

Craigh na Dun is a fictional stone circle from the books by Diana Gabaldon. Many people think that it has been inspired by some real stone circles such as Clava Cairns near Inverness and Callanish in the Outer Hebrides.

Can you visit the castles in Outlander?

You can visit a lot of the castles used in the filming of Outlander. The following are all open to the public:

* Doune Castle * Midhope Castle * Blackness Castle * Linlithgow Palace

Where is the bed and breakfast in Outlander?

Mrs Baird’s Bed & Breakfast was located in Inverness from the 1940s but was actually filmed in a small town in Fife, Scotland called Falkland.

You can actually stay here and imagine being Claire – it’s a real life hotel called the Covenanter Hotel !

What castle was used as Lallybroch in Outlander

The exterior shots used for Lallybroch in Outlander is Midhope Castle which is located just outside Edinburgh in Scotland.

The interior of Lallybroch was filmed in a studio – the actual castle is derelict inside.

Outlander spots in Scotland – conclusion

There are so many spots used in Outlander that you can actually visit – no matter where you visit in the country you can see something from the tv show!

Which Outlander attraction Scotland is on your Bucket List? Let me know in the comments!

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Do I need insurance for traveling to Scotland?

YES! I always recommend people take travel insurance when exploring the world!

Check Travel Insurance Master for quote comparisons from different providers.

Do I need a car for visiting Scotland?

YES – If you’re wanting to explore Scotland fully then a car is worthwhile. It will get you to all the best sights and on your own timetable

I recommend DiscoverCars to compare car rental prices in Scotland

How to book accommodation in Scotland?

For hotels I recommend Booking.com

For apartments and cottages check out VRBO

Will my phone work in Scotland?

Perhaps – it depends if you have roaming enabled and beware this can be an expensive way to use your phone.

If you need a SIM for use in Scotland I recommend GiffGaff which you can get and set up before traveling.

What to pack for Scotland

Keep yourself dry be prepared for any weather is my motto for Scotland! A rain jacket and comfy shoes are a must.

See my post about what to pack for Scotland

Do I need midge spray for Scotland?

YES – if you’re traveling in the summer months to any of the west coast, highlands, islands or lochs it’s recommended.

Locals swear by Avon’s Skin So Soft !

If you’re sticking to the cities or traveling in winter, early spring or late fall then you likely won’t need it.

What’s the best guidebook for Scotland?

I really like the Lonely Planet Guidebooks

Where to get flights for Scotland

Skyscanner is my first port of call for finding cheap flights to Scotland.

Do I need a visa for Scotland?

Many countries don’t need a visa for visiting Scotland as tourists (USA, Canada, Aus, NZ and Europe) – it’s always best to check first though .

Kirsty Bartholomew

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Outlander filming locations in Scotland: The ultimate outlander tour

With filming for series six currently underway, we reveal some of the locations used in the smash-hit historical drama Outlander, which you can visit on your next trip

Jamie and Claire’s time-travelling love affair from the Diana Gabaldon series of Outlander novels has had viewers hooked since premiering on Starz in 2014. Here are some of the Outlander filming locations in Scotland you can visit yourself…

Words by Mollie Davies

Th e beloved historical drama Outlander is nothing short of a sensation. Based on the bestselling book series by Diana Gabaldon, it sees military nurse Claire Randall (Caitríona Balfe) travel back in time, thanks to some magical stones, from the 1940s to the 1740s. Once in 18th-century Scotland, Claire meets a Highlander, Jamie Fraser (Sam Heughan), and is seduced by life with him.

The epic adventure that Claire and Jamie find themselves on has a way of speaking to every human emotion. Over the years, the pair find themselves embroiled in drama, war, politics, complicated relationships, and traumatic loss.

In the first part of series seven, Claire and Jamie find themselves thrust into the American Revolution from their North Carolina home, Fraser’s Ridge. The landscape is changing, and to keep their family safe, Claire, Jamie, Brianna and Roger must make big, difficult decisions about their future. Judging by the trailer, the second part of the series will see Claire and Jamie return to Lallybroch.

Claire and Jamie’s adventure is slowly ending, with season eight – expected to air at some point in 2025 – confirmed to be the last. However, a spin-off show, Outlander: Blood of My Blood , will go even further back in time to tell the love story of Jamie’s parents, and Claire’s life in the 20th century.

All things considered, it’s no surprise that Outlander has had a profound effect on Scottish tourism.

Scottish history and its beautiful, rich landscapes play an incredibly important role in Outlander . A fictional tale of time travel and romance it may be, but much of the story is rooted in historical fact.

Looking to follow in the footsteps of Claire and Jamie? Here’s how to take the ultimate Outlander tour of Scotland…

The ultimate outlander tour

Stroll through Edinburgh’s historic streets and you’ll undoubtedly be whisked away to years gone by, but more than just its architecture and whispering tales, the city is home to some poignant Outlander filming locations.

Wandering through Edinburgh’s Old Town, you can spot several Outlander locations just off the Royal Mile.

Step inside the grand Signet Library and things may look familiar, as its interiors double as the Governor’s House in Jamaica. In less than 10 minutes, you’ll reach Bakehouse Close, where Claire and Jamie reunite after 20 years apart, separated by the stones.  

Finally, pay a visit to Tweeddale Court, which was transformed to the 18th-century market where Claire meets with Fergus.  

Cranesmuir is a fictional village in Outlander that’s the home of Claire’s friend, and fellow time traveller, Geillis Duncan. In the TV series, filming took place in Culross, a well-preserved 17th-century former royal burgh in Fife, easily accessible from Edinburgh, with direct trains to Dunfermline taking just over half an hour, from where you can take the local 8A bus, which takes 25 minutes.

The exterior, courtyard and great hall of Doune Castle near Stirling are used as one of the Outlander filming locations for Castle Leoch from the first season onwards – as the home of Clan MacKenzie. It’s at Castle Leoch where Claire first meets Murtagh, Laoghaire MacKenzie, and Colum and his family.

In season two, Claire and Jamie arrive at King Louis’ court in Versailles and the exteriors of Drummond Castle provided the backdrop for the palace’s stunning gardens and remains one of the most impressive formal gardens in the country.

Although Glen Coe doesn’t appear as a setting for any episodes of Outlander , the rugged landscapes of the epic valley feature in the show’s opening credits. As you travel through Glen Coe’s rolling hills, passing by wide lochs, catching glimpses of deer roaming nearby, you’ll almost certainly hear The Skye Boat Song playing in your mind.

While the enchanting Isle of Skye is yet to make an appearance as one of the Outlander filming locations, the show’s soothing soundtrack has encouraged many fans to make their way across the water. The lyric ‘Over the Sea to Skye’ is a reference to Bonnie Prince Charlie’s escape (in disguise as a serving maid) to Skye after the Battle of Culloden.

Back over on mainland Scotland, near Inverness, Culloden Battlefield is a must for any Outlander tour. A very bloody and devastating conflict, the Battle of Culloden was the final stand of the Jacobites.  

While the show’s principal filming location for the battle was in Cumbernauld Glen due to the real-life location, which is looked after by the National Trust, being an important historical monument, the visitor centre and battlefield are well worth a visit to get a better understanding of this pivotal battle that spelled the end of the Jacobites.

The battle features prominently in Outlander , as season two ends with Jamie sending Claire back through the stones on the eve of the battle to save both her life and that of their unborn child. While Jamie’s life is spared at Culloden due to a debt of honour, many of his men are sadly lost. Around 1,300 lives were lost during the real battle, about 1,250 of them Jacobites.

Once in Inverness, you’re well positioned to explore several Outlander filming locations. Begin with a trip to some mystical stones. The Clava Cairns are said to have provided the inspiration for Outlander ’s Craigh na Dun – the stones that transported Claire back 200 years.  

The Clava Cairns are about 4,000 years old and were built during the Bronze Age as a cemetery. Today, the group of three Bronze Age cairns are still wonderfully preserved and attract many visitors who want to see if they, like Claire, have time-travelling capabilities.

On the Rothiemurchus Estate in the Cairngorms National Park you’ll find Tulloch Ghru, just outside Aviemore – a heavily wooded area that was the setting for Claire’s first meeting with Jamie after she fell through the stones.

The Highland Folk Museum, less than 15 miles away, featured in the show’s first season as a Highland settlement that Clan MacKenzie visits to collect rent. While there, Claire helps the village women to dye cloth with urine, while singing a Scottish folk song in a process known as ‘waulking wool’. A visit here will give anyone interested in Scottish history a great taste of what life was like in the Highlands of the 1700s.

The action in Outlander may have moved to North Carolina in season four, but filming for the New World still takes place in Scotland. Although much of the show is filmed at the Wardpark Studios at Cumbernauld near Glasgow, Scottish landscapes still provide backdrops to plenty of scenes. On the outskirts of the Cairngorms National Park, you’ll find Faskally Forest (or Woods), which is the setting for the Mohawk and Cherokee villages.

In the series, Claire and Frank take a second honeymoon in Inverness, but scenes for this were filmed in Falkland. This small town in Fife stands in for 1940s Inverness, where the couple check into Mrs Baird’s B&B on the square, the real-life Covenanter Hotel.  

It’s from the windows of this quaint guesthouse that Claire notices Jamie’s ghost standing by the Bruce Fountain. Just across the street, you’ll see Fayre Earth gift shop, which was Farrell’s furniture store in the show. Then there’s Falkland Town Hall, which acted as the Inverness County Records Office when Claire, Brianna and Roger searched for Jamie and the deeds to Lallybroch.

Back towards Edinburgh, Blackness Castle was used as Fort William, Black Jack Randall’s garrison fortress in Outlander . It was here that Jamie was flogged at the hands of Randall, and Claire was rescued by Jamie and Murtagh. Meanwhile, in the 1960s, Brianna and Roger explore a modern-day Fort William.

The beautiful stately home of Hopetoun House near South Queensferry, on the coastal outskirts of Edinburgh, acts as the Duke of Sandringham’s estate. Walking around this grand estate, you’ll see several filming spots from the first three seasons.

Ending on a high note, you simply must visit the Fraser’s ancestral home, Lallybroch, which is set at Midhope Castle. Though you can’t explore its ruins, fans love to pose on the steps and imagine themselves transported to an 18th-century Lallybroch, waiting for Jamie to come home.

Book an Outlander tour

Sounds a bit overwhelming to plan yourself here are some of the best organised outlander tours and experiences in scotland..

Outlander Adventure & Trail, Rabbie’s

Setting off from Edinburgh, this expert tour-bus company offers a one-day group tour, ideal for anyone visiting the capital who’s short of time. Visitors will see Midhope Castle, Doune Castle and Blackness Castle, as well as Linlithgow and Culross. The tour company also offers a more extensive four-day tour (see our competition on page 31).

Priced from £64 for a one-day tour.

www.rabbies.com/en/scotland-tours/see/outlander-tours

Outlander Experience, Highland Experience Tours

Again, setting off from Edinburgh, on these two-day group tours that include an overnight stay in Inverness, you’ll see many of the Outlander filming locations near Edinburgh, plus Clava Cairns, Culloden Battlefield, and the historic town of Falkland.

Priced from £165.

highlandexperience.com/edinburgh-tours/outlander-experience

The Ultimate Outlander Tour, Adventures Scotland

With these bespoke self-drive tours, itineraries can be catered to incorporate the places you want to see. They don’t come with a tour guide, but with accommodation and car rental organised, plus the use of a guidebook and navigation maps, you won’t feel like you’re going out on your own entirely.

Priced from £649.

adventures-scotland.com/tour/the-ultimate-outlander-tour

Private Outlander Tours

Mary’s Meanders

These full-day tours are private, ensuring the undivided attention of your guide as you visit the sites near Linlithgow and Edinburgh.

Priced from £500 for three people.

marysmeanders.co.uk/outlander-tour-scotland/private-outlander-tour-calendar

Hotels with an Outlander atmosphere

Kinloch Lodge, Skye

Charming, cosy and steeped in history, Kinloch Lodge (below left) is a luxury hotel on Skye, with the Cuillin Mountains in the distance. Though the hotel has been modernised, it retains much of its centuries-old charm, welcoming guests with fine food, friendly staff, plush beds and roaring fires.

Kinloch was built in 1676 as a farmhouse before being converted into a shooting lodge for the Macdonalds of Skye in the 18th century. In 1972, Lord Macdonald and High Chief of Clan Donald, Godfrey, converted Kinloch Lodge into a hotel and lived there with his family. Today, his daughter, Isabella Macdonald manages the hotel.

Upon arrival, you’ll find a magical reception room with historical trinkets and a well-stocked bar. It’s in this very room that Clan Macdonald decided not to fight in the Battle of Culloden.

kinloch-lodge.co.uk

Foyers Lodge, Loch Ness

Foyers Lodge (below right) near Inverness is the perfect place to base yourself when exploring nearby sights. On the picturesque shores of Loch Ness, Foyers Lodge has just seven beautifully designed rooms that reflect the captivating heritage of the hotel, while modern amenities ensure the most comfortable of stays. Husband-and-wife team Anna and Phil look after guests beautifully, with immense knowledge of the surrounding landscapes and unparalleled service.

In 1726, General George Wade started work on the military road between Inverness and Fort Augustus down the south side of Loch Ness and built himself the General’s Hut on this very site.

foyerslodge.co.uk

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SCOTLAND MAGAZINE

Published six times a year, every issue of Scotland  showcases its stunning landscapes and natural  beauty, and delves deep into Scottish history. From mysterious clans and famous Scots (both past and present), to the hidden histories of the country’s greatest castles and houses, Scotland ‘s pages brim with the soul and secrets of the country. Scotland magazine captures the spirit of this wild and wonderful nation, explores its history and heritage and recommends great places to visit, so you feel at home here, wherever you are in the world.

Outlander Tours from Edinburgh & Glasgow

If you’re a fan of Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander novels or the hit TV series, then these unique Outlander Tours from Glasgow and Edinburgh are perfect for you! Come and join us for this epic Outlander experience.

Our Outlander Tours

If you’ve read the Outlander novels or watched the worldwide phenomenon TV series, you’ll know just how incredible the Scottish landscape is. Book onto one of our exciting Outlander Tour’s today to follow in the footsteps of Claire and Jamie’s Scottish adventures. Travel through Scotland’s rugged past and visit the picturesque sites where the characters first fell in love.

On our Outlander tours you will visit the locations where the series was filmed as well as visiting historical sites where the Jacobite uprisings took place. So join us on a heart pounding time travelling adventure and discover that Scotland’s history is as fantastic as the show itself.

• Hour Glass One Day
• Info Outlander Tour

One day Outlander tour from Glasgow

This tour is a must for every fan of the hit TV show Outlander and is a bucket list-moment to get to visit the sets of your favourite show. Relive the books, walk in the footsteps of Jamie and Claire, and explore ancient castles and little villages that have not changed since the 16th century.

• Hour Glass Multi Day

The 2-day Outlander Experience

Travel through the ancient glens and discover hidden castles and villages where Jamie and Claire shared their adventures!

The 3-day Outlander Experience

Come and join us for this epic Outlander experience, which is a must for every fan of the hit TV series!

The 4-Day Outlander Experience

Come and join us for this epic experience that is a must for every fan of the hit TV series Outlander . Travel through the ancient glens and discover hidden castles and villages where Jamie and Claire shared their adventures.

One day Outlander tour from Edinburgh

This tour is a must for every fan of the hit TV show Outlander and is a bucket list-moment to get to visit the sets of your favourite show!

Why Choose Our Outlander Tours?

Find out what makes our Outlander Tours stand out from the crowd:

• Family Owned – Alba Experiences is a family owned business that believes in giving you the best possible experience.
• Discover History – Our Outlander tours cover a vast array of historical sites. Visit ancient glens and hidden castles that have not changed since the 16th century. 
• Years of Experience – Your Scottish guide, James has over 8 years of experience travelling the world and working as a tour guide. He is also an award winning photographer who filmed on series 3 and 4 of the Outlander series – you couldn’t be in better hands! 

Book An Outlander Tour From Glasgow Or Edinburgh

Alba Experiences is a family run business from the west coast of Scotland who specialises in friendly tours of Scotland. In particular, we offer epic Outlander tours from Edinburgh or Glasgow  where you’ll get the opportunity to visit the beautiful locations where the series was filmed. On these tours, you will be accompanied every step of the way by an experienced and knowledgeable tour guide who took part in the filming of Outlander series 3 and 4.

Scotland Outlander Tours Faqs

If you are still unsure about booking an outlander tour of Scotland, take a look at our frequently asked questions below for more information. Be sure to contact us if you have any further questions.

• Chevron down How Long Do Outlander Tours Tend to Last?

We are able to offer a wide range of tour durations, with one , two , three and four day tours all available for booking. We also offer bespoke experiences to those that are looking for a more custom-built experience, so make sure you contact us with any special requests.

• Chevron down What are Some of the Popular Stops and Destinations on an Outlander Tour of Scotland?

On a four day Outlander tour of Scotland , you will be guaranteed to see all of the most significant locations in the Outlander TV series. This includes:

• Linlithgow Palace
• Blackness Castle
• Midhope Castle
• Doune Castle
• Drummond Castle
• Craigh Na Dun
• Highland Folk Museum
• Clava Cairn
• Culloden Battlefield
• Urquhart Castle 
• Glenfinnan Monument
• Chevron down Do You Visit Outlander Filming Locations on the Tour?

If you have watched the popular TV series, our Outlander tours will take you to a number of notable locations featured in the series. You will be able to take an in-depth look at the Jacobite uprising with stops at historical sites, whilst taking in the stunning scenery. James, your tour guide , was even featured as an extra on season three of the Outlander TV series!

• Chevron down Can I Book a Multi-Day Outlander Tour of Scotland?

We offer a range of Outlander tours to suit any traveller or group of travellers, with a variety of durations. Our multi-day Outlander tours are the most comprehensive, and will take you to various film locations and historical monuments. We will pick you up and drop you off at your accommodation each day of the tour.

• Chevron down Are there Outlander Tours from Edinburgh or Glasgow Available?

Our one day Outlander tours from Edinburgh provide the perfect opportunity for travellers on a city break, looking for a short trip out of the city, to see some of the key filming locations for the Outlander series. We also offer one day Outlander tours from Glasgow . We will pick you up and drop you off at your accommodation, and will make sure that your day trip is full of famous film locations and monuments.

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Outlander Filming Locations in Scotland

Get swept away in the spell-binding world of the  Outlander  saga. Experience the land that inspired Diana Gabaldon and the TV series producers, from ancient and mysterious standing stones to dramatic castles, magnificent stately homes and breathtaking landscapes. 

Jamie and Claire get married in the Glencorse Old Kirk

© 2014 Sony Pictures Television Inc. All Rights Reserved

Discover Outlander Filming Locations

Use our filters to explore Outlander filming locations used in seasons 1 - 4.

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Outlander book locations

Outlander has featured many Scottish locations and attractions. Visiting historic castles and ruins, ancient citie and iconic landscapes is a great way to delve deeper into the world of Outlander and experience the magic for yourself. Here are just a few of the locations so far that we think you'll love!

Urquhart Castle viewed from Loch Ness

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Inverness - roam the streets of Inverness, where Claire's adventure begins.

Loch Ness , Urquhart Castle and Beauly - enjoy a day trip to Loch Ness and keep an eye out for the Loch Ness Monster, referred to as the water horse in the novel. 

The Great Glen Way - journey along the Caledonian Canal and Great Glen Way towards Fort William for a romantic mix of pine forests, glistening lochs and enchanting moorlands. 

Glenfinnan Monument - this monument marks the spot where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard, starting the 1745 Jacobite Rising. 

The Tolbooth Tavern on The Royal Mile

Culloden Battlefield - it is here that Claire and Jamie say their tearful goodbyes. Visit this site where many clans, including the Frasers and MacKenzies, fought in the 1745 Jacobite Rising alongside Bonnie Prince Charlie.

Edinburgh's Royal Mile and the Old Town - Scotland's capital is the setting for a number of scenes in the books. Wander the atmospheric cobbled streets and narrow wynds of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh's Old Town, where Claire and Jamie reunite after 20 years.

Palace of Holyroodhouse - No  Outlander  experience would be complete without a visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of HM The King in Scotland, and where Claire and Jamie beseech the Prince to abandon his cause. Situated at the end of the Royal Mile, the palace is closely associated with Scotland's turbulent past, including Bonnie Prince Charlie.

Experience Outlander in Scotland

Tour Scotland with Outlander

See Outlander filming locations, book locations and attractions with real-life Jacobite connections.

Outlander locations map | PDF 1.7MB

Download your free copy of the Outlander Film Locations Map (includes seasons 1 - 4) and start your Scottish adventure today!

Audio guide to Outlander in Scotland

Follow in the footsteps of your favourite Outlander characters by downloading our brand new digital audio guide created with GeoTourist.

Discover the history behind Outlander

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The ultimate 10-day outlander tour of scotland.

Lately, it seems like the TV show Outlander has breathed new life into the Scottish tourism industry. Hundreds, if not thousands of people visit Scotland each year to follow the footsteps of Claire Randall and Jamie Fraser. But of course, Outlander tours based on the book series have been around for much longer than that. Scotland-lover Nancy Basile went on a 10-day Outlander tour of Scotland and will share with you a list of her favourite stops. I promise you’ll love them, no matter whether you are a fan of the books or the TV adaptation!

This post contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission. Find out more here . All opinions are my own.

Guest blogger Nancy Basile is a professional freelance writer and shares her thoughts on movies, TV shows and books she loves – incl. everything she knows about Outlander – on her blog  mediamedusa.com .

I fell in love with Scotland the first time I visited this beautiful country in 2008. I only got to spend a few days in Edinburgh and the Highlands, but that was all I needed to lose my heart to the moors covered in gorse and heather and the high-reaching hills.

In 2016, I was lucky enough to return. This time, I spent 10 days on an Outlander tour of Scotland with Celtic Journeys. That trip was a dream come true. It blew away my expectations and we visited more unique places than I could have imagined.

The Outlander tour with Celtic Journeys focuses more on the book series than the TV show. In fact, the tour was operating before the TV show ever premiered. Although we visited a few film locations from the TV show, we spent the majority of our time exploring places that are mentioned in the books, or places that might have inspired passages in the books.

These are 10 of my favourite places from my Outlander tour of Scotland.

PS: Use my Outlander itinerary to plan a trip to these and other Outlander locations in Scotland !

Listen to ‘The Key’ – an Outlander-inspired episode on my Scotland podcast!

Cille Choirille

We spent our first two night in the Highlands at Glenspean Lodge in Roy Bridge, Ft. William. It was originally a hunting lodge, so it has a very cosy, homey feel.

Cille Choirille was just up the road. We visited this charming little church because it looks very much like the church described in “Dragonfly in Amber,” where Black Jack Randall was buried.

Walking the kirkyard transported me back hundreds of years. The gravestones dated back several centuries and were weathered and worn. The tiny kirk’s stone walls were covered in lichen. Inside the church, it was eerily quiet, thanks to the incredibly thick walls. It was also very dark because there were only a few tiny windows to let in daylight. Mass is held in Cille Choirille just once a month during the summer season.

You might also like: 20 things to do in Scotland for first-timers

West Highland Museum

On our second day, we visited the West Highland Museum in Fort William. The museum is a repository for dozens and dozens of artefacts, books, documents and pieces of clothing related to the Jacobites.

Jacobites were a group of Scottish rebels who tried to restore the Stuart family to the throne in the 17th and 18th Century. James II, the last Roman Catholic king, was overthrown by his Protestant son-in-law. The Scots were deeply unhappy and tried to put a Stuart on the throne until the last uprising in 1745.

I couldn’t believe I was looking at things that Charles Stuart, the “Young Pretender,” had once possessed. The most fascinating artefact was a secret portrait. A tray was painted with something that looked like a smear. But when you placed a silver cylinder in the centre of the tray, you could see a portrait of Bonny Prince Charlie in the reflection. The Jacobites used it as a secret way to continue paying their respects.

You might also like: 15 Things to do in Fort William

Eilean Donan Castle

Eilean Donan Castle near the Isle of Skye is reported to be the most photographed castle in all of Scotland, and no wonder. The setting alone is like something from a romance novel. Eilean Donan sits on its own island, which is connected to the mainland by a long bridge.

The gardens surrounding the castle range from manicured and symmetrical plots to paths that wind through wild, moss-covered trees and rocks. Walking the paths, I felt was like entering a fairyland.

The castle itself is very impressive for its structure and its history. It was built in the 13th Century as a defence against the raiding Vikings. In 1719, Spanish soldiers who supported the Jacobites stored gunpowder in the castle. The English found out and attacked. The English found the gunpowder and used it to demolish the castle. However, in 1911 Lt. Colonel John Macrae-Gilstrap bought Eilean Donan and restored it to its former glory. The castle opened to the public in 1932.

You might also like: 30+ Things to do on the Isle of Skye

Kilmuir Cemetery

While we were on the Isle of Skye, we visited Kilmuir Cemetery, the cemetery where Flora MacDonald was laid to rest.

Flora MacDonald sheltered Charles Stuart after his army lost the battle on Culloden Moor in 1745. A tall memorial stands above all the other gravestones in Kilmuir, honouring her for her courage. She is also the Flora mentioned in the “Skye Boat Song,” a traditional Scottish song.

While we were at Kilmuir Cemetery, I was struck by the affection the Scots must feel for Flora MacDonald. Although it’s in an ordinary-looking cemetery, her memorial is stately and regal.

What I remember most, however, was the wind! I laughed out loud because it was blowing so hard. It practically lifted me off the ground! And I couldn’t have been happier. True Scottish weather!

You might also like: 30 stops for an epic North Coast 500 road trip itinerary

Calanais Standing Stones

Outlander fans know that Craig na Dun – the circle of standing stones that transported Claire Randall two hundred years into the past – doesn’t actually exist. Author Diana Gabaldon invented them.

But Scotland has no shortage of standing stone circles. We visited an amazing stone circle on the Isle of Lewis called the Standing Stones of Calanais. It’s impressive because there are so many stones still standing in concentric circles. The circle sits on top of a hill, which gave me an incredible view of the beautiful isle and sea all around.

The path to the stone circle is flanked by rows of smaller standing stones. Walking the path is like a meditation exercise. You can practically feel the mystic energy buzzing around the stones.

Did you know, you could also visit standing stones and stone circles on the  Isle of Arran ?

Wardlaw Mausoleum

While we were in Inverness, we visited the Wardlaw Mausoleum. The Wardlow Mausoleum is part of the Wardlaw Graveyard, where Lord Lovat, the “Old Fox” of the Jacobite Rebellion, and Jamie Fraser’s grandfather, is buried in the crypt.

The Mausoleum itself is a lovely old church. The inside is painted a sky blue and the ceiling soars overhead.

The real attraction is actually Lord Lovat’s coffin in the crypt. It was hard to climb down into and back out of the crypt, so not many people went inside. Plus, it’s tiny! We had to take turns.

The casket was smaller than thought it would be. I didn’t spend much time in the crypt, but I wanted to see it just so I could say I did. I wasn’t keen on seeing someone who had been dead for hundreds of years!

You might also like: How to spend one day in Inverness

Culloden House Hotel and Culloden Battlefield

The Battle of Culloden marked the end of the Jacobites. It was a horrible loss and prompted the Duke of Cumberland to begin a scorched earth campaign against the Highlanders. It was the end of the great Highland clans too.

We visited Culloden Battlefield and its amazing museum. They have scads of artefacts related to the battle. They even have a video exhibit that puts you smack in the middle of the battle. It brings the battle to life in all its bloody glory.

While visiting the museum and walking the grounds, you can feel the weight of sorrow settle into your heart. Knowing how many men died, and how brave they had been, even when they knew they were probably going to lose, made our visit a sombre one.

After our visit to the battlefield, we stayed at the Culloden House Hotel. Culloden House is where Prince Charles stayed on the eve of the battle, and where the Duke of Cumberland stayed after the British won.

The house is beautiful and luxurious and full of history. I was lucky enough to sleep in the attic room. I say lucky, because in “Dragonfly in Amber,” the attic is where something very terrible and very important happens. (I don’t want to spoil it for anyone who doesn’t know!)

Culloden House Hotel also has a lovely walled garden and an interesting garden path that takes you past some very interesting sculptures. I highly recommend walking the grounds if you ever stay there.

You might also like: A One Day Outlander Tour from Edinburgh

Clava Cairns

The Clava Cairns are two burial mounds that are close to Inverness. They’re wonderful examples of cairns because they’ve been expertly restored and maintained. You can walk all around them, and even up to the door of one.

The Clava Cairns are surrounded by standing stones. Standing stones and stone cairns play a big role in the Outlander books. There’s one grouping, in particular, that lends itself well to a photo op. You can poke your head through a pair of stones and have someone snap your picture.

You might also like: 10+ Day Trips from Inverness [Self-Drive & Guided]

Urquhart Castle

Urquhart Castle was one of the most impressive ruins we visited. Its massive footprint shows you just how huge the structure was.

Urquhart Castle was the castle that Claire and Frank Randall visited on their second honeymoon in the original Outlander book. It certainly is a romantic spot. Not only is the castle and its grounds quite impressive, it also sits on the shores of Loch Ness. If you climb the stairs, you have a magnificent view of the loch. We were fortunate enough to take a cruise on Loch Lomond.

You might also like: A Day Trip to Loch Ness with Rabbie’s

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Our last formal tour of the trip was also the most outstanding. We got a “behind the rope” tour of the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen’s Edinburgh residence.

Outlander fans will remember that Holyroodhouse Palace is where Prince Charles Stuart resided during his Jacobite campaign. Both Jamie and Claire visited and stayed at Holyroodhouse.

Of course, this magnificent palace has its own storied history. Mary, Queen of Scots, married both of her husbands there. Also, her private secretary, David Rizzio, was murdered in her private rooms.

We toured every area that’s open to the public, as well as a few areas that the public doesn’t see. It was fascinating and awesome, in the truest sense of the word.

You might also like: How to spend 2 Perfect Days in Edinburgh

Need help with your trip? Hire me to review your itinerary or to plan a custom route for your trip!

These ten locations in Scotland are part of the Outlander history. As a die-hard fan, I was thrilled to stand in the shoes of people who had been there centuries before me. I highly recommend taking the Outlander tour with Celtic Journeys. It was the trip of a lifetime!

Want to do an Outlander tour of Scotland on your own? Get in touch and let me help you plan your perfect itinerary!

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24 thoughts on “ The Ultimate 10-Day Outlander Tour of Scotland ”

I’m ready to schedule my trip – which trip do you recommend? I’d like one that is planned out thank you

If you’re looking for a self-drive tour, check out my Outlander itinerary – https://watchmesee.com/shop/scotland-outlander-itinerary/ ?

Pingback: 'The Key' - An Outlander Road Trip from Edinburgh - Wild for Scotland

I would be interested in more information about the Outlander trip.

Hi Elisa, the guest writer went on this tour with Celtic Journeys! They’ve been running them for years and I’d imagine they will start offering tours to Scotland again as soon as possible. Hope this helps!

Hi, I am Chris from the US. I am going to be in Scotland Sept 25-October 3. Would you like to get a coffee? I’ve been following and pinning your adventures for six months, in preparation. Your post on traveling as a single female was particularly good!

Hi Chris, I’m away for some days during your visit to Scotland actually – why don’t you drop me an email at [email protected] 😉

Hi, could you tell me please if Eilean Donan Castle is in any way in Outlander? If so how is it mentioned in the show or book? I’ve visited the castle 8 years ago, and find some nice pictures but can’t related. Your kind answer would be much appreciated.

Hi Renie, the castle has historical ties to both the MacKenzie and the Fraser clans, but as far as I know, it has not been featured in the TV show. I’ve not read the books, so I’m not sure, but I’d imagine it has not been specifically named (otherwise it would be in the show). Still a wonderful castle to visit on the way to Skye!

You made a mistake. Urquhart castle is on the banks of Loch Ness, not Loch Lomond.

Thanks for pointing that out – how silly of me not noticing it before;)

I’ve never read or seen anything Outlander, but I really think I should. I’ve been to some of these places, but it would be a lot of fun to know them in a different light. It might be a summer project to start on the books with a tour as a reward. 🙂

Great idea! I’ve only watched season 1 and 2 so far, but definitely want to make some time this summer for season 3! And then visit some of the locations again 😀

Great list. I’ve visited about half the sights listed, though somehow never seen Outlander!

I’ve watched all Outlander series more times than I can count! I love it all! I cannot wait to come I guess I’ll wait until April 2023 – I’m excited already – any chance I could drop by St Andrews golf course? Not to play just look! Thank you

Absolutely – you can visit the golf course in St Andrews, do historic tours around it, or just take a look. It’s a detour from the described itinerary, but definitely worth it – it’s a beautiful town. I’d stay at least one night in the area!

Confession time: I’ve not watched Outlander nor really know what it’s about but I know enough to know that the real star of the show is Scotland!! Will add it to my watch list for a rainy day 🙂

Love the post! Urquhart Castle looks so dreamy ? Great job Kathi!

I’ve always wanted to go to Scotland to get in touch with my maternal grandmother’s roots. Would love to do a similar trip to this!

Oh, you should! There are lots of people who come over to do some ancestry research – it must be a wonderful experience!!

Ah, those locations look amazing! I have not seen Outlander, but I probably should before going to Scotland!

It’s a great show to prepare yourself for the beauty of the country 😀

I was so glad to stumble across your post as we are currently planning a trip to Scotland. It looks fabulous and I can’t wait to visit! Thanks for the great share!

Scotland looks like it came straight out of a movie! One day I’ll get to visit. 🙂

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Welcome to Sam's Outlander Tours

My love for outlander.

I have been an Outlander fan for several years now. I was introduced to the books by clients I had on tour. Eventually I read the first book and I was hooked. I am a tour guide and have worked in Edinburgh for 24 years taking tours around the city and all over Scotland. I took my first Outlander Tour in May 2007. It was great spending time with fellow fans!  You can read about me  here. If you have any questions please get in contact.  

I have worked for  Edinburgh Tour Guides  as a tour guides since 2000 and am a member of SITOA (Scottish Independent Tour Operators Association).

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7 Outlander Filming Locations To Visit In Scotland

Has Outlander inspired you to discover more about Scotland? Do you dream of exploring Outlander filming locations in Scotland and immersing yourself in the local heritage?   

If so, then you’re in the right place. Here our Scotland experts uncover the top Outlander  filming spots and real-life locations that inspired the books so you can prepare your next trip.

Since its debut in 2014, the TV series has tugged at the heartstrings of viewers with its epic love story and stunning Scottish setting. And we’re sure you’ll agree that Scotland makes for an amazing visual backdrop, with its rolling hills, rugged moors, and historic landmarks.

While some locations are fictional, even these are based on actual Scottish destinations. During your visit, you’re sure to find plenty of grand houses, castles, and stone circles to see.

Note: this article contains spoilers!

• Browse these  Outlander tours of Scotland  to experience these locations

1. Stroll through Edinburgh and its surroundings

Edinburgh  is unmissable when you’re touring Scotland. So head here and you'll find yourself at the heart of many wonderful places to visit, including a lot of  Outlander  locations!

Whether you’re in the capital city for a day or 2, or enjoying a longer stay, make sure you take some time to wander. Go for a walk and discover some of the top sights, not only central to Outlander plots but to Scottish history.

In season 3, Edinburgh features as the real setting of Jamie’s print shop. This is where he and Claire reunite after 2 decades apart.

 The top locations you shouldn’t miss include:

The Royal Mile

Taking a stroll in the heart of the Old Town, a  UNESCO World Heritage Site , will bring you back in time, whether you recognise the settings from  Outlander  or not.

The  Royal Mile , and the network of closes (alleyways) and buildings that flow in and out of it, are reminiscent of the 17th and 18th centuries. One of them, Bakehouse Close, just off the famous Mile, is the external location for Jamie’s printing press.

The Signet Library

If you head towards Edinburgh Castle from Bakehouse Close, you’ll pass by the Signet Library. It’s a Georgian building just off the Mile, behind St Giles' Cathedral.

The interior was used as Lord John Grey’s Governor’s Mansion in Jamaica. The building itself is well-worth a visit, and they even make a delicious afternoon tea if you want to grab a bite.

Craigmillar Castle

Craigmillar Castle is found south of the city centre, and you may recognise it as Ardsmuir Prison. This is where Jamie was incarcerated after surviving Culloden and where he befriends Lord John Grey.

To see the castle, you can drive or take a bus from central Edinburgh towards the Craigmillar area.

• Browse summer tours of Scotland
• Or discover Scotland on a winter trip

Gosford House

If you have some time to explore the area surrounding Edinburgh, you could take the train or drive to Longniddry in East Lothian to see the beautiful estate of Gosford House.

Its exterior stood in as Helwater Estate, the private residence located in northern England, where Jamie works after his imprisonment – and fathers his illegitimate son.

The house is open for tours during the summer if you want to see the lavish interiors, especially the impressive Marble Hall, a filming location used for other scenes.

Hopetoun House & Newhailes House

Located near Edinburgh, Hopetoun Estate is a stunning place to visit. The large house is set amidst a lawn and lush woodlands, and even features a pond. And if you’re a fan, you’ll recognise it as the residence of the Duke of Sandringham.

The estate was used for a range of filming locations throughout seasons 1, 2 and 3.

Newhailes House is a Palladian mansion located on the other side of Edinburgh, in East Lothian. This National Trust for Scotland site also sits at the heart of a historical estate and offers unspoilt views of the Firth of Forth.

Its lavish exterior is understandably why it was used as the Governor of North Carolina’s mansion.

2. Explore historic ruins and castles

There are so many historic  castles in Scotland , thousands even. For a historical drama, it’s no wonder the series is making good use of these fascinating locations. From eerie ruins to strong fortresses, you'll feel as though you're stepping back in time yourself when you visit them.

These are the top castles that feature in Outlander :

Doune Castle

One of the most popular ruins to film in Scotland, Doune Castle in Stirlingshire stands in as Castle Leoch.

This is where Jamie and Claire’s adventure really begins. In fact, Claire and Frank visit the ruins post-war but Claire gets to see it at its best when she travels back in time.

Good to know: Other movies and TV series, such as Game of Thrones , Outlaw King and Monty Python , have featured Doune Castle too.

• Enjoy a privately guided tour of Scotland
• Or join fellow travellers on a small group tour of Scotland

Blackness Castle

You won’t have to venture far from Edinburgh to see the show's  Fort William . It's used as the filming location for scenes at Blackness Castle.

This is where Jamie receives his lashings from the evil Black Jack Randall. The boat-shaped fortress juts into the Firth of Forth and offers terrific views of the area and nearby bridges.

Midhope Castle

Midhope Castle used to be a tower house that is now an abandoned ruin. Located on the estate of Hopetoun House, you can only visit it as part of a tour. The inside is derelict, but the exterior is mostly intact and was used to film Jamie’s family home of Lallybroch.

Drummond Castle & Gardens

Drummond Castle, near the market town of Crieff in Perthshire, boasts an extensive garden that's open to visitors.

Visit for a leisurely wander and you may find yourself transported to France. In season 2, were you fooled when these particular gardens passed for the lush park of the Palace of Versailles?

• Check out these self-drive tours of Scotland
• Related: 7-day Scotland road trip ideas

3. Visit the quaint Fife villages

The Kingdom of Fife lies just across the Firth of Forth from Edinburgh. If you drive through it on your way up to Inverness or Aberdeen, you’ll be able to stop at a few of the villages that were used to film  Outlander .

These two medieval villages were used to represent other Scottish towns. Their history and old-time charm made them the perfect backdrop for the 1740s and 1940s alike.

In the series, the village of Culross stands in for the fictional village of Cranesmuir, where Geillis Duncan stays near Castle Leoch.

Culross is one of the most complete examples of an old burgh, which is probably why it was used so many times in Outlander . You won’t miss it with its yellow palace, which really stands out.

Falkland  is seen in the first episode of the series, posing as the northern city Inverness, where Claire and Frank are honeymooning after the war.

Falkland was the first conservation village in Scotland and is perfect for a stroll. You could even visit Falkland Palace at the same time, which used to be a favourite of  Mary Queen of Scots .

• Check out Scotland culture and history tours
• Related: Places to eat on the Outlander Trail in Scotland

4. Experience the natural beauty of Perthshire

This is where it all began. While Claire's journey starts in Inverness in the books and TV series, it is in fact in  Perthshire  that a big part of Claire’s journey was filmed in the earlier seasons.

Rannoch Moor

You'll probably know that Claire passes through the Craigh na Dun standing stones near Inverness to reach the 17th century. But these scenes were actually filmed on Rannoch Moor.

Stretching from Perthshire into the Highlands, Rannoch Moor will remind you of season 1 when Claire and Jamie ride across these moors and valleys.

In season 5, the signature stones make a comeback. This was filmed in the quaint village of Kinloch Rannoch, located at the eastern tip of the scenic Loch Rannoch.

For a similar feel, you could also visit nearby  Glen Coe . This iconic Scottish spot offers scenic views of high peaks and deep valleys.

• Go on a Scottish Highlands adventure

Crieff 

Even though Diana Gabaldon moves our heroes and the action to the Americas, a lot of Outlander is still filmed in Scotland.

Pretend you’re in North Carolina by visiting the lovely market town of Crieff. Indeed, this is where you’ll find Jocasta’s River Run Plantation. It was built from scratch on the Abercairny Estate, just outside the town.

Perthshire woodlands 

North Carolina during the time of European settlers was a lush and wild country. It’s no wonder the show runners had to find forested areas worthy of the name. Highland Perthshire is renowned for its tall and rich woodlands.

In season 4, “New World” scenes, including Cherokee and Mohawk villages, were filmed in the Faskally Forest, near Pitlochry. The town is a must-stop on your way into the Highlands. You could also visit Edradour or Blair Athol distilleries, go for a hike nearby or enjoy a delicious afternoon tea. 

In season 5, the Hermitage was used as a filming location. You may be able to spot the River Braan and the Falls of Braan in late episodes.

5. Witness real-life stone circles

Unfortunately, Craigh na Dun is fictional, but it was inspired by very real standing stones. In fact, there are around 500 stone circles in Scotland so if you want to see one, you’ll find them dotted around the countryside.

Here are some of the standing stones and ancient tombs you could visit:

• Kilmartin Glen , West of Scotland
• Clava Cairns , near Inverness
• Callanish (Calanais) Standing Stones, Isle of Lewis
• Standing Stones of Stenness , Orkney Islands
• Ring of Brodgar , Orkney Islands
• Machrie Moor, Isle of Arran
• Enjoy a unique honeymoon on one of these romance packages in Scotland

6. Explore the West End of Glasgow

Glasgow  is known for being the largest city in Scotland, with an industrial background and incredible music scene.

While the city centre offers good shopping opportunities, you’ll want to pop to the West End (subway station Hillhead). Here you will be able to visit the Gothic buildings that make up one of Scotland’s oldest universities.

What is the Outlander connection? Well, if you paid close attention during season 3, you may well notice similarities between these parts of Glasgow and Boston.

Yes, most of the Harvard University scenes, as well as the exterior shots of Frank and Claire’s home, where filmed in the West End of Glasgow.

Claire is also seen walking through Kelvingrove Park with baby Brianna. Then, nearly 20 years later, Brianna and Roger walk through the famous cloisters at the University of Glasgow.

You could also head south of  Glasgow's River Clyde to visit charming Queen’s Park. It features in a flashback scene of season 5.

• Learn more about your roots on one of these Scottish heritage tours

7. Discover the Trossachs National Park and Stirlingshire 

The  Trossachs National Park is another great stand-in for the wilderness of North Carolina, where Claire and Jamie Fraser settle in later seasons. This is where the true Fraser’s Ridge is located.

Existing woodlands were topped up with extra ferns and strawberry bushes to match the book descriptions.  

The camp where Murtagh and the rebels live was filmed near the spa town of Bridge of Allan, near the city of Stirling . You can also explore nearby towns, such as  Callander and Cambusbarron, to find more Outlander inspiration.

• Dive into two Celtic cultures with these Scotland and Ireland combination tours

Booking your Outlander holiday

You could build your own itinerary based on the locations above. Or, why not let a local plan your trip for you? Nordic Visitor's Scotland travel experts are based in Edinburgh and know the country inside out. They will help you make this an even more memorable holiday.

Browse these  Outlander tours  and pick your favourite. You could explore at your own pace on a road trip or enjoy a private tour with a local guide who will share all their knowledge with you. When you book with Nordic Visitor you get personal service and 24/7 support. 

Are you ready to plan your Outlander adventure? Get in touch with our Scotland experts .

  Camila grew up between the French Canadian and Chilean cultures, before moving to Scotland in 2012. When she’s not travelling or writing about travels, Camila loves to read, run, and puzzle. Her favourite destinations have been Reykjavík, Copenhagen, Estonia and Cape Town.  

Find Camila on LinkedIn .

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

OUTLANDER EXPERIENCE

The outlander trail, related posts, places to eat on the outlander trail in scotland.

Blogs , Scotland , TV and Movies

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12 best castles in scotland that you should visit, scotland outlander sites: tips from a local expert.

Outlander 3-Day Tour

Travel through time on the outlander 3-day tour. discover all of the iconic filming locations on this comprehensive trip through scotland..

Since its arrival on our screens in 2014, the popularity of Outlander has continued to grow. Gaining a worldwide fanbase, this beloved TV series has helped to project the beauty of Scotland around the globe. As a result, fans travel from far and wide to relive the adventures of their favourite characters. Now you too can discover the scenery and settings of this on-screen epic.

Edinburgh , Glasgow

• Private tour

From € 1.750 per group

Covid-19 safety measures

This will be a contactless process; your guide will check your name off their list. No handover of vouchers necessary.

We will be doing a temperature check for everyone including the guides. If we are uncomfortable with a temperature reading, the guest will not be allowed join the tour.

Tour Vehicle

Before each tour, the vehicle will be cleaned and sanitised.

Frequently touched points will be cleaned and sanitised throughout the day.

Face coverings will be required to be worn by all guests while in the tour vehicle.

Your guide will be wearing either a mask or a visor. Please make sure you have a mask with you.

In our cars, we will have a protective screen between the driver and back seats.

Hand sanitiser will be available in all vehicles

We will be following Scottish Government guidelines regarding social distancing and guest numbers in our vehicles.

Cancellations/Flexible bookings

If you need to change your booking due to being in contact with someone who has Covid-19, we will change your booking – no fee & no fuss.

Our Partners

We will only be working with businesses who are adhering to the same high-level standards as Mary’s Meanders.

Your Safety and Ours

We will be working hard to keep you safe by implementing these safety procedures. All guests accept personal responsibility for protective covering, personal sanitising and adhering to the social distancing rules.

If at any time Social Distancing & safety measures are not being adhered to, the tour will be cut short with no refund.

If a guest does have a temperature or any of the Covid-19 symptoms (consistent cough, loss of sense of smell/taste) on the tour day, they will not be allowed join the tour. No refund will be given.

By joining the tour, you are confirming that you release the tour guide, driver, and Mary’s Meanders from any and all liability for unintentional exposure or harm due to Covid-19.

Finally, the Mary’s Meanders team looks forward to sharing our love of Scotland with you all again soon!

• Meeting Point: Linlithgow Train Station
• Doune Castle / Castle Leoch
• Blackness Castle / Fort William
• Midhope Castle / Lallybroch (Apr - Oct)
• Hopetoun House / Duke of Sandringham's Residence
• Culross / Cranesmuir
• Linlithgow Palace / Wentworth Prison
• Drummond Castle Gardens / Versailles
• Tibbermore Church / Cranesmuir Church
• Tullibardine Chapel
• Falkland / Inverness
• Dysart / Le Havre
• Craigmillar Castle / Ardsmuir Prison
• Glencorse Old Kirk / Wedding scene
• Prestonpans battlegrounds
• Preston Mill / Lallybroch Mill

Tour details

Accommodation is not included, and you’ll have to arrange accommodations for the duration of the tour.

Each day on the 3-day tour lasts around 8 hours. Times are dependent on local traffic conditions.

The entrance fees listed below are for guidance only and can change at any time. Itineraries may also change at short notice due to local events.

Many of the locations on this tour have uneven terrain or cobblestones and are not suitable for those with mobility restrictions.

Meeting point

Check in at 9:00 am at Linlithgow Train Station , Station Road, Linlithgow EH49 7DH. 20 mins by train from Edinburgh, 30 mins by train from Glasgow.

Tour departs

Daily at 9:00 am (Jan – Dec)

At approx 5 pm back at the meeting point

Live guide speaks

Max group size, tour operator.

Mary’s Meanders

Cancellation policy

8 full weeks or more before start: full refund minus any third party costs. After that time or no-show: no refund.

Accessibility

Not suitable for people with limited mobility Not wheelchair accessible

Professional live guide Transport and driver

Accommodation Food & Drink Entry fees Gratuities (optional)

Entry to Blackness Castle (adult): £6.00 pp Entry to Doune Castle (adult): £9.00 pp Entry to Linlithgow Palace (adult): £9.00 pp Entry to Craigmillar Castle (adult): £6.00 pp Entry to Culross Palace (adult): £10.50 pp Entry to Preston Mill (adult): £6.50 pp Entry to Drummond Gardens (adult): £10 pp Entry to Tibbermore Church (optional): £5 pp Entry to Hopetoun House (adult): £10.50 pp Entry to Midhope Castle: £3.50 pp

Things to bring

Appropriate clothing Comfortable shoes Cash, credit card, or Historic Scotland Explorer Pass for entrance fees Your tour ticket

Full description

The outlander 3-day tour offers an experience like no other..

Over the course of this tour, you will get the chance to visit many of the major Scottish filming locations that appear throughout the TV series. From elaborate palaces to historic battlegrounds, the Outlander 3-Day Tour guides you through Scottish history, both factual and fictional.

Instead of merely driving guests from one location to another, our guides will join you into the locations and share a wealth of knowledge about the sites and the TV series. We work closely with all visited sites to ensure the entire tour is an experience you will never forget.

Day 1 of the tour takes in many of the most iconic castles and fortresses from the TV series.

The first stop of the day brings you to Doune Castle . This 15th-century structure features as Castle Leoch , home of Clan MacKenzie . From there you will visit Blackness Castle , Outlander’s Fort William , before seeing Midhope Castle . This solitary tower house plays the part of Lallybroch, Jamie Fraser’s home.

The next stop, Hopetoun House , has the honour of featuring as two different locations throughout the TV series. The building’s exterior represents the home of the Duke of Sandringham . While some of the interiors were used for scenes set in Paris .

Finishing off the day are stops at Culross , home of the fictional village Cranesmuir , and Linlithgow Palace . A building of great historical significance, it appears as Wentworth Prison on screen.

Day 2 begins with a stroll through Drummond Castle Gardens.

These verdant grounds were a stand-in for the gardens surrounding the Palace of Versailles . Later, you will stop at Tibbermore Church , the site of the witch trials , and Tullibardine Chapel , where Rupert loses his eye.

This day ends exploring locations that the Outlander production crew have made to look like other parts of the world. The first is Falkland village , which features as Inverness city . The last stop of the day is Dysart , a town that represents Le Havre in Normandy .

The final day of the tour starts with a visit to Craigmillar Castle.

The building featured as the fictional Ardsmuir Prison , where Jamie Fraser and Duncan Innes were inmates . Another location you’ll visit on this day will be Glencorse Old Kirk . Eagle-eyed viewers will recognise this as the church where Jamie and Claire get married .

From one of the TV series’ most romantic scenes, you will visit one of its most brutal. Travelling from Glencorse you will arrive at Prestonpans . This is the location of a critical battle from Season 2. Then, capping off a jam-packed journey, the Outlander 3-Day Tour has a final stop at Preston Mill . Featuring as Lallybroch Mill , it is one of the oldest working mills in Scotland.

Did you know…

… that we have had the great honour to take Diana Gabaldon – the famous author of The Outlander saga – together with a few lucky fans on a special tour to selected Outlander locations? The event was organised by VisitScotland in recognition of Diana’s contribution to Scottish tourism with her books and subsequent TV series.

Accommodation

Accommodation is not included, and you’ll have to arrange accommodations for the duration of the tour. As the tour starts in Linlithgow at 9:00 am each day, you have the option of taking the train from Edinburgh (20 mins) or Glasgow (30 mins) or we can recommend local accommodations in Linlithgow itself:

Strawberry Bank House ( www.strawberrybank-scotland.co.uk ) Court Residence ( www.courtresidence.com )

You can find more hotels and b&bs in Linlithgow here: https://www.google.com/travel/hotels/Linlithgow .

Buying a Historic Scotland Explorer Pass (adult: £35 – £45) gives you free admission to over 70 properties in Scotland, including Blackness Castle, Doune Castle, Linlithgow Palace and Craigmillar Castle.

Locations (16)

1. meeting point: linlithgow train station.

Tours depart from Linlithgow Train Station , Station Road, Linlithgow EH49 7DH 20 minutes by train from Edinburgh 30 minutes by train from Glasgow

2. Doune Castle / Castle Leoch

Doune Castle was built in the 14th century to seat Scotland’s uncrowned King Regent Albany, and the medieval courtyards of the castle showcase the regent’s rich tastes. The castle has one of Scotland’s best-preserved great halls and a stunning 100ft (30m) gatehouse.

Doune Castle served as the setting for Outlander’s Castle Leoch and is highlighted in several key scenes across the first season of the show. In the 18th century episodes, Castle Leoch is the home of Colum Mackenzie and his clan. At the beginning of the series, Claire and Frank pay a visit to Castle Leoch on a day trip, only to discover the castle is in ruins. Doune Castle also hosted the scene where Claire, Jamie and Dougal’s party approach the castle courtyard.

Doune Castle is more than just the home of Castle Leoch, as it was also the backdrop of Winterfell in the GOT TV series and was also seen in Monty Python and the Holy Grail .

3. Blackness Castle / Fort William

Blackness Castle is a 15th century-old fortress built by the Crichton family. It has been used as a royal residence, a prison and a weapons store. Due to its unusual shape, it is often referred to as ‘the ship that never sailed’.

When selecting a filming location for Outlander’s Fort William , Blackness Castle is the setting for Black Jack Randall’s stronghold. This is the scene where Jamie was whipped and tortured during his incarceration was filmed here, filling fans with genuine compassion for Jamie.

This is also where Jamie’s father passed away after watching his son facing punishment. During the mid-season finale of series one, Blackness Castle was used when Claire was held captive by Black Jack before Jamie breaks into Fort William to rescue her.

Not only did Blackness Castle showcase the backdrop of Fort William, but also captured scenes from 1990’s Hamlet and 2019’s Mary Queen of Scots .

4. Midhope Castle / Lallybroch (Apr - Oct)

The breathtaking Midhope Castle dates back to the 16th Century. The castle exterior remains intact however the interior of the structure has been neglected and has decayed extensively. The centuries-old castle was the home of Jamie Fraser known as Lallybroch . Jamie’s parents left him ownership of Lallybroch, but the castle was also home to Jamie’s sister Jenny , her husband and their children.

Lallybroch is first introduced in a flashback scene in season 1 episode 2, when Jamie attempts to save Jenny from the clutches of the Redcoats but instead gets captured and taken to Fort William . We then see Lallybroch further in episode 12 when Jamie and Claire return to the castle and a disagreement erupts with Jenny before settling in for the following few episodes. Some episodes later an encounter with ‘The Watch’ sees the characters having to leave Lallybroch.

Please note that Midhope Castle is occasionally subject to closures for estate activity.

5. Hopetoun House / Duke of Sandringham's Residence

Hopetoun House is a country home in Scotland built in the 16th century for the Hope family, located on the Hopetoun estate which covers an area of 6.500 acres. Outlander followers will recognise the country home as the Duke of Sandringham’s residence .

Hopetoun House was used to shoot the  red drawing-room scene in episode 10 of season 1 when Claire blackmails the Duke of Sandringham to ensure Jamie is pardoned. During season 2, we were taken from Scotland to a Paris setting, although none of the footage was ever captured in France! The alleyway behind Hopetoun House was in fact featured as Paris backstreets. Finally, in episode 4 of season 3 Jamie and the Dunsany family arrive by carriage to visit Lady Geneva at the home of the Earl of Ellesmere . The exterior of the Earl’s home was one of many other filming locations at Hopetoun House.

6. Culross / Cranesmuir

The picturesque village of Culross has been around since the 17th century, featuring a mustard yellow palace, rustic village homes and is lined with idyllic cobbled streets. Culross is the setting for Cranesmuir used in many scenes of the Outlander series.

Culross first appeared in season 1, painted as a dull and grey looking town during filming. After shooting the Outlander scenes, the village was painted back to its original white colour. In the centre of Culross we find the town square with the Mercat Cross and the home of Geillis Duncan in Cranesmuir. This is where Geillis was sentenced to burn as a witch and where Jamie and Claire rescued the young thief when his ear was pinned to a post.

7. Linlithgow Palace / Wentworth Prison

The impressive Scottish Linlithgow Palace dates back to the 12th century and is the birthplace of the Scottish Monarchs Mary Queen of Scots and James V. Due to its eerie exterior Linlithgow Palace serves as Outlander’s Wentworth Prison  where Black Jack Randall captures, rapes and tortures Jamie during his incarceration.

This is also where Claire pretends to be a relative to convince the jailer to let her visit Jamie. The jailer promptly declines before Claire leaves and throws up before Murtagh swiftly picks her up. The spiral staircase that Claire descends trying to avoid the redcoats was also shot at Linlithgow, as was a later scene where Claire searches the prison cells.

8. Drummond Castle Gardens / Versailles

The centuries-old Drummond Castle Gardens is one of Scotland’s most prestigious formal gardens. Since its initial development, the site has undergone a series of redesigns with the most recent in the 19th century. Queen Victoria planted a beech tree and yew hedges during her visit in 1842. The Gardens still retains the French style and extravagant feel today as portrayed in the Outlander series.

Drummond Castle Gardens serve as the Gardens of Versailles in Outlander. The first notable episode featuring this location is during Untimely Resurrection in season 2, when Claire and Jamie arrive at King Louis’ Court . You will recall Jamie assisting the Duke of Sandringham to select a horse before Jamie has an encounter with Black Jack Randall. This, of course, results in the two challenging each other to a duel.

9. Tibbermore Church / Cranesmuir Church

Tibbermore Church is set in a captivating walled graveyard and dates back to the 16th century. Its unique raked stone flooring and wooden pews give the church a distinctive feel. Outlander fans will recognise Tibbermore Church as representing Cranesmuir Church in the series.

The Devil’s Mark is where the heart wrenching witch trial was held in the court. Fans will recall the episode showing Claire and Geillis being thrown into the thieves hole to await their trial for witchcraft. The pair are anxiously sat in the docks before Geillis is removed from court and sentenced to death by fire.

Unlike many Outlander filming locations, Tibbermore Church hasn’t changed since its adaption for the TV series. The interior of the church remains in the same state as it was before filming had begun.

10. Tullibardine Chapel

Tullibardine Chapel dates back to the 14th century and was explicitly used as a re-reformation chapel established by Sir David Murray. The chapel is one of few medieval churches in Scotland that remains unharmed, but Tullibardine Castle is no longer in existence today.

This is the location where Claire , Jamie , Fergus , Rupert and Dougal take refuge on their journey to Inverness and are ambushed by a group of redcoats. The redcoats believe Claire is a prisoner of the Scots, and demand for her to be released. Shortly afterwards, we see the church once again when the group leave by horseback, but not before Rupert receives a devastating shot to the eye.

11. Falkland / Inverness

The small and quiet Scottish village of Falkland has streets lined with stone cottages which have been around since the 17th and 18th centuries. The village is home to 28 listed buildings, one of which includes the historic Falkland Palace . Falkland serves as Inverness in the TV series, because Inverness was unsuitable for filming as the buildings and streets were too modern, which was far from the look and feel needed for the show.

We first see Falkland when Claire and Frank arrive in Outlander’s Inverness for their second honeymoon. Here they meet Reverend Wakefield the local minister, and Mrs Baird the owner of the bed and breakfast. Falkland featured streets such as Rotten Row, Sharps Close and Brunton Street . A house in Brunton Street is where Mary Hawkins cared for sick Alex Randall at McGilvrey’s Boarding House.

12. Dysart / Le Havre

Dysart Harbour dates way back to the 14th century, and the history behind the location is a rich one. In the 17th century, the harbour grew extensively when an influx in exports of coal and salt to the Baltic regions was agreed. Dysart Harbour is the filming location which became known as Le Havre in the series.

The French Harbour is first seen in the first episode of Season 2 when Jamie and Claire arrive. Upon their arrival, they meet the shows newly introduced villain Comte St. Germain . Although Claire and Murtagh rescue Jamie from the clutches of Black Jack Randall to escape to Paris, none of the filming ever took place in France.

13. Craigmillar Castle / Ardsmuir Prison

Craigmillar Castle takes us back to the 14th Century when the castle tower was first constructed, followed by the courtyard walls in the next century. The castle has a history of murderous events and is also where Mary Queen of Scots retreated in the 15th century.

This location was the ideal stronghold to shoot the scenes for Ardsmuir Prison thanks to its decaying exterior, so there was hardly any adaptations needed to use the castle for filming. From the series, we see Ardsmuir Prison as having a Scottish Highlands setting, although no filming ever took place in the Highlands. This is the setting where Jamie, Murtagh and several Jacobite dissidents are incarcerated following the Battle of Culloden in 1745.

14. Glencorse Old Kirk / Wedding scene

Set in the grounds of Glencorse House is where we find the tranquil church called Glencorse Old Kirk . A parish was built in the 16th century and sadly burned down. In its place, however, was the construction of Glencorse Old Kirk some decades later.

This is where Claire and Jamie’s wedding took place and the start of where their adventure truly began. The scene where the two tied the knot was during one of the most memorable episodes of the entire series. It took the production team a long five weeks to ensure the film set was nothing less than perfect.

Glencorse Old Kirk differs dramatically from how it is portrayed in Outlander. The film set was significantly adapted for the series to make it look more rundown, but there’s no mistaking the exterior as the place where Jamie and Claire got hitched.

15. Prestonpans battlegrounds

The small historic town of Prestonpans dates back to the 11th century and is the site where the Battle of Prestonpans took place in 1745. The town is home to Preston Tower and the one-of-a-kind Mercat Cross, the last of its kind to retain its original form since its construction. The Prestonpans battlegrounds is the setting for the large-scale battle Jamie leads against the British in nearby Preston .

The Prestonpans battlegrounds are used during Season 2 Episode 10 of the series. To successfully lead the Jacobite army, Jamie is faced with detouring a swamp. While Jamie is occupied in battle, Claire makes use of her combat nursing experience to take care of the soldiers wounded while fighting.

The barn used in season 2 episode 9 is the same setting being used again during the Battle of Prestonpans. But instead, it’s used as Claire’s field hospital!

16. Preston Mill / Lallybroch Mill

Preston Mill is now a class A listed building, previously producing oatmeal for the region. Although Preston Mill is located in Scotland, one could easily imagine it being set somewhere in Holland among fields of tulips with its dutch-like appearance.

Preston Mill is the location of Lallybroch Mill during episode 12 of season one in Outlander d uring the ‘ Lallybroch ‘ episode when Jamie first arrives at Lallybroch Mill to discover mechanics of the mill are no longer functioning. We see Jamie taking matters into his own hands to fix the mill, at which point, Claire and Jenny spot inbound redcoats and attempt to draw their attention.

As the episode unfolds, we witness Jamie successfully repairing the water wheel, and it’s this same wheel that stands in place at Preston Mill today.

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The Most Underrated Time-Travel Show of the Century Still Holds Up

Sing me a song, of a lass that is gone.

Everybody wants something different from a time-travel story . Some want a sense of adventure that the subgenre is uniquely well-suited to provide. Others just want to see moments of the past or potential futures realized onscreen. Not every sci-fi story has to satisfy both of those desires. In order to truly win over their viewers, though, the one thing every time-travel movie and TV show should be is immersive.

From the very beginning, Outlander has understood that. The romantic drama, which was originally developed by For All Mankind co-creator Ronald D. Moore and is based on a series of books by Diana Gabaldon , tells a straightforward, no-nonsense time travel story. It, nonetheless, quickly stood out when it premiered in 2014 because of the fiery chemistry between its leads and — perhaps even more importantly — the specificity of its setting.

In the 10 years since it made its debut on Starz, the series has experienced its fair share of creative ups and downs. However, all throughout that time, Outlander has remained the most underrated time-travel show on TV.

Outlander has a transportive power that is, at times, astonishing.

Outlander begins in 1945. It follows Claire Randall (Caitriona Balfe), an intelligent and proud nurse who travels to Scotland with her husband, Frank (Tobias Menzies), following the end of World War II. Whilst on their trip, a chance interaction with a collection of strange standing stones sends Claire back in time to 1700s Scotland. Stranded in a cutthroat and even more patriarchal time, Claire quickly finds herself accompanying an assortment of quirky Scottish highlanders, including a handsome Jacobite rebel named Jamie Fraser (Sam Heughan). The two quickly hit it off and — before Claire has even realized it — fall in love, but their romance is relentlessly tested by the issues of the time and Claire and Jamie's shared tendency to get into trouble.

If Outlander 's premise makes it sound like a high-concept twist on a typical romantic fantasy novel, that's because it is. The show isn't ashamed of that fact, either. On the contrary, it has embraced the paperback-romance-esque aspects of its story from the very beginning. At times, this has led Outlander down narrative paths both illogical and cringeworthy. For the most part, though, its embracement of its central love story has allowed it to frequently rank as the most romantic TV show of the past decade. That is partly thanks to Balfe and Heughan's magnetic chemistry, which makes you immediately accept their characters' romance, as well as their full-throated, shockingly bone-deep portrayals of both Jamie and Claire.

It's also the natural result of Outlander 's own affection for its setting and material. There aren't many shows on TV that love their characters as much as Outlander loves its, and the series' first three seasons are further enriched by its adoration of Scotland itself. The show spends much of its first season intricately building out its 18th century Scottish setting and spotlighting all of the country's rolling green hills and misty highlands. In doing so, it makes you fall in love with Scotland at the same pace as Claire, and the same goes for its equally loving recreations of 18th century Paris and revolutionary America.

Outlander 's unwavering attention to detail not only creates a certain level of affection for its various landscapes and historical backdrops, but it also makes it easier to buy into the show's time-travel story. The series goes so far out of its way to explore even the most minute details of Claire and Jamie's ever-evolving life together that it remains, frankly, a far less demanding task to keep up with Outlander ’s constant twists and turns than you might think. That is also, once again, a testament to the work done by, specifically, Balfe and Heughan, whose performances always manage to ground Outlander in recognizable emotions even when the show comes dangerously close to letting the plot-heavy nature of its source material get in the way of everything else.

Outlander has consistently ranked as one of TV’s most visually stunning dramas.

Whether or not Outlander has ever managed to match the highs of its first three seasons is a debate that will likely continue to rage amongst the show's fans. Its initial seasons were, notably, buoyed by a slew of memorable supporting performances given by, among others, Graham McTavish , Laura Donnelly, Duncan Lacroix, and Simon Callow. The show's debut seasons were also elevated by Menzies' double performance as both Frank, Claire's present-day husband, and Jonathan "Black Jack" Randall, a slimy British military captain who becomes obsessed with Jamie and Claire.

All of this is to say that the fact that Outlander 's latest seasons have struggled to hold onto the momentum and energy of its first few doesn't take away from the show's early accomplishments. When it premiered on Starz in August 2014, it quickly emerged as an impressively vivid take on a seemingly familiar romantic drama. The series’ setting and characters felt immediately alive and well-defined, and its willingness to explicitly explore complex matters of power — particularly in regards to how it affects romantic and sexual relationships of various forms — seemed revolutionary at the time.

Since then, Outlander 's glow may have faded a bit, but it still hasn't disappeared. Even now, it and — at the very least — its initial seasons remain (pun intended) well worth your time.

Outlander Seasons 1-6 are streaming now on Netflix. The first half of its seventh season is available to stream on Starz.

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'Outlander' TV Show Prompts Tourist Boom In Central Scotland

Richard Baynes

The highly popular Outlander TV series starts its fifth season on Sunday. Its success has prompted an explosion of "Outlander Tourism" in Scotland, where the series is filmed.

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10 Locations in Scotland that Every "Outlander" Fan Should Visit

A sweeping tale of time travel and enduring love adapted from the books by Diana Gabaldon, "Outlander" has become an international sensation. Although it’s Claire and Jamie Fraser’s love affair that keeps most fans enthralled, the show is also synonymous with the landscapes, history, and culture of Scotland. The first season is set entirely in Scotland and many scenes from the second, third, and fourth seasons also take place there. Even some of the scenes ostensibly set in France and North America were filmed in Scotland, and as such, the country is home to a wealth of locations for "Outlander" fans hoping to walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters. 

Note: This article contains major spoilers for those who have not yet watched all five seasons of "Outlander." 

Kinloch Rannoch (Craigh na Dun)

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The stone circle at Craigh na Dun is the most iconic setting of the entire Outlander series, being the portal through which Claire (and later Geilis, Brianna, and Roger) travel back in time to 18th-century Scotland. The stones themselves, though reportedly inspired by the Callanish Stones on the Isle of Lewis, were fabricated out of styrofoam for the show. However, the breathtaking hilltop setting in which they stand can be found just off the road near the Highland village of Kinloch Rannoch. The astonishingly beautiful scenery around the village is also recognizable as the countryside that Frank and Claire explore on their post-war honeymoon in season one, and is defined by verdant valleys, deep lochs, and towering mountains. 

Falkland (1940s Inverness)

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The first season of "Outlander" begins with Frank and Claire’s vacation to 1940s Inverness. Scenes from the village appear again in season two (when Claire returns to her own time on the eve of the Battle of Culloden, and in the future when Claire and Brianna travel to Inverness for Reverend Wakefield’s funeral). Roger also follows Brianna to Inverness in season four. However, "Outlander’s" Inverness is not the modern-day city of the same name. Instead, the village of Falkland in Fife serves as the filming location for these scenes. Today, visitors can stay in Mrs. Baird’s Guest-house (aka The Covenanter Hotel) and stand at the Bruce Fountain just as Jamie’s ghost does while looking wistfully up at Claire’s hotel room. 

Doune Castle (Castle Leoch)

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In the series, Castle Leoch is the family seat of the Mackenzie clan, presided over by Jamie’s maternal uncle, Colum Mackenzie. It’s here that Jamie and Claire first get to know each other after Claire falls into the company of the rebel Highlanders following her journey through the stones. Castle Leoch is fictional, of course, and its stand in for the TV series is Doune Castle. Located near the village of Doune in Stirling, this 13th-century stronghold remains largely intact despite suffering damage during the Scottish Wars of Independence and is now open to visitors under the care of Historic Environment Scotland. You may also recognize it from "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," and as Winterfell Castle as featured in the pilot episode of "Game of Thrones." 

Midhope Castle (Lallybroch)

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Jamie’s ancestral home, known as Lallybroch or Broch Tuarach, appears many times in "Outlander." We see it first in season one when Jamie takes Claire there for the first time; again in season three when Jamie is living there as an outlaw after the Battle of Culloden and later when he and Claire are reunited; and in season four, when Brianna arrives at the castle after traveling through the stones from 20th-century America. The exterior scenes at Lalllybroch were filmed at Midhope Castle, a 16th-century tower house located on the grounds of Hopetoun Estate near Linlithgow in West Lothian. The house itself is now semi-derelict and unsafe to enter, but visitors to the estate can view it from the outside (as long as there is no farming activity scheduled in the area). 

Hopetoun House (Duke of Sandringham’s Estate)

George Gastin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 1.0

Hopetoun Estate is also home to Hopetoun House, which features regularly in "Outlander" in many different capacities in seasons one, two, three, and four. Considered one of Scotland’s finest stately homes, this 18th-century masterpiece provides the filming location for scenes set at the Duke of Sandringham’s estate, at Helwater (where Jamie is sent to serve out his parole after Culloden by Lord John Grey), and at Ellesmere Estate (where Jamie’s illegitimate son by Geneva Dunsany is born). The courtyard behind the stables will also be familiar to fans, having served as the backdrop for several Parisian street scenes in season two. Hopetoun Estate is open to visitors all year round, with pre-booked guided tours offered on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. 

Glencorse Old Kirk

In season one, Jamie and Claire’s beginning as one of the best-loved fictional couples of all time is cemented with a marriage arranged to protect her from Black Jack Randall. The church in which this union takes place is Glencorse Old Kirk, located on the grounds of privately owned Glencorse House on the outskirts of Edinburgh. Because the house is privately owned, one cannot simply turn up to tour the church; however, private viewings can be arranged via the Glencorse website. "Outlander" fans with a wedding to plan will also be thrilled to hear that the church is available to hire for truly romantic Scottish ceremonies, complemented by magical photo opportunities in the spectacular parkland grounds. 

Linlithgow Palace (Wentworth Prison)

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Some of "Outlander’s" most dramatic and controversial scenes take place at Wentworth Prison, located at a fictional castle in the Scottish Borders. Here, Jamie is sentenced to execution and tortured by Black Jack Randall at the end of season one before eventually being rescued by Murtagh and his men. The filming location for the prison is Linlithgow Palace in West Lothian. This historic landmark served as a royal residence for the monarchs of Scotland in the 15th and 16th centuries, and was the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. Bonnie Prince Charlie visited the palace, and in 1746 it was destroyed by a fire set by the Duke of Cumberland’s armies following the prince’s defeat at Culloden. Now, it’s a major visitor attraction cared for by Historic Environment Scotland.

Dean Castle (Beaufort Estate)

Scotia / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0

In season two of "Outlander," Jamie and Claire decide that if they can’t derail the Jacobite uprising then they must try to ensure that it is a success. They return to Scotland from exile in France and head to Beaufort Estate, the home of Jamie’s grandfather, Lord Lovat, to seek military assistance. Lovat’s imposing home is none other than Dean Castle , a 14th-century landmark that served as the stronghold of the lords of Kilmarnock for over 400 years. One of these lords joined Bonnie Prince Charlie’s rebellion in real life. Currently, the castle is closed due to renovations that are expected to be completed by summer 2021; but visitors can still admire its exterior while exploring the surrounding Country Park with its woodland trails, urban farm, and kids’ adventure playground. 

Blackness Castle (Fort William)

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As the headquarters of Black Jack Randall, Fort William features frequently in "Outlander." It’s where Jamie receives the brutal flogging that marks the beginning of his hatred for Randall, and it's where Claire is imprisoned after being captured by redcoats while attempting to flee to Craigh na Dun in season one. In season two, we visit Fort William with Brianna and Roger, some 200 years in the future. The filming location for all of the Fort William scenes is Blackness Castle, a ship-like fortress constructed on the shores of the Firth of Forth near Edinburgh by the Crichton family in the 15th century. Often referred to as “The Ship That Never Sailed,” the castle is now managed by Historic Environment Scotland and welcomes visitors all year round. 

Culloden Battlefield

Charles Wollertz / Getty Images

The Battle of Culloden is the climax of "Outlander’s" second season, with flashbacks featured in the first episode of season three as well. The actual battle scenes were not filmed at Culloden due to its status as a war grave preserved by the National Trust for Scotland; instead, the conflict was reenacted in a field near Cumbernauld in North Lanarkshire. However, the battleground is a worthwhile point of interest for any "Outlander" fan, with a visitor center that explains its importance as the final conflict of the Jacobite uprising (and the last large scale battle ever fought on British soil). 

You’ll be able to see the battle lines marked out by red and blue flags representing the redcoats and the Jacobites, and the memorial stones that mark the mass graves of the different clans. The real Fraser memorial features in the final episode of season two, when 20th-century Claire returns to Scotland and comes to pay her respects to Jamie, whom she mistakenly believes to have died in the battle. You can do the same for all the real-life Frasers, Mackenzies, Macdonalds, and other clansmen who died in their attempt to preserve the Highland way of life for generations to come. 

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‘Outlander’ Stars Sam Heughan and Graham McTavish Set Scottish Travel Series at Starz

By Will Thorne

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“ Outlander ” stars Sam Heughan and Graham McTavish are kilting up for a ride around Scotland.

Starz , which airs the pair’s popular time-traveling historical drama, has ordered an unscripted series from them called “Men in Kilts: A Roadtrip with Sam and Graham.”

The series hails from “Outlander” producer Sony Pictures Television and is described as a celebration of Scottish history and culture, as Heughan and McTavish take viewers along on their adventures, discovering the complex heritage of their native country, and meeting various local artisans and experts.

One of the sites Heughan and McTavish will travel to is the battlefield of Culloden, which has featured prominently in “Outlander.”

“’The genuine curiosity and passion that Sam and Graham have for the landscapes they visit and the stories they uncover while traveling through the heart of Scotland makes ‘Men in Kilts: A Roadtrip with Sam and Graham’ a truly enjoyable journey of discovery for the audience,” said Christina Davis, president of original programming of Starz. “The series gives context and texture to Highland life and history, woven together, much like the tartan for which Scotland is so famous, and we look forward to taking this road trip with these two great friends.”

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Heughan and McTavish (the former in particular) have built a worldwide base of passionate fans for their roles as Jamie MacKenzie Fraser and Dougal MacKenzie in the highly popular “Outlander.” The show recently ended its fifth season, in which McTavish returned after missing out on seasons 3 and 4.

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“We are so excited to take viewers on this epic adventure with Sam and Graham. Their bond of friendship and genuine curiosity about the rich culture of Scotland is going to make for an unforgettable journey for all,” added Holly Jacobs, executive vice president of alternative and syndication programming at Sony Pictures Television.

“Men in Kilts: A Roadtrip with Sam and Graham” is created and executive produced by Heughan, McTavish and Alex Norouzi, and is produced for Starz by Boardwalk Pictures in association with SPTV.

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Matthew B. Roberts on what it's like for the Frasers to head home again in Outlander season 7 part 2

Outlander season 7 part 2 , aka the final eight episodes of the season, are finally making their way to us on Friday, Nov. 22, 2024 on Starz. There's still a ways to go, but that does mean that the closer we get to the premiere, the more teases start to come out about the next chapter of the epic time-travel drama.

In a recent interview with TVLine , executive producer Matthew B. Roberts shared a hint at what's to come for the Frasers - both the ones in the 18th century and the ones in the 1970s - including how it feels to be back home in Scotland for Jamie, Claire , and Young Ian.

All three haven't been there since the third season. And it's crazy just how long they've been away! Of course we're looking forward to the trio interacting once again with Jenny and Ian Murray, Jamie's sister and brother-in-law and Young Ian's parents. Here's what Roberts told the news outlet:

Going home again, it’s tough when you’ve been gone so long. [Because it's been so many years, the series was able to take on] a fresh start, a fresh, new place for these characters to interact with each other.

It's definitely difficult to be back home when you're away for so long as the EP says. So much changes and evolves, as well as the people as well. And someone who's a bit tough - she is a Fraser after all - is Jamie's sister Jenny, who's been recast and now played by actress Kristin Atherton in Outlander season 7B. I'm really looking forward to seeing the dynamic here! Plus, we haven't really gotten a chance to see Jenny, Ian, and Young Ian's relationship and interactions together. I can't wait!

Roberts also teased that though Roger and Buck MacKenzie are in for a challenge back through time looking for Jemmy, Brianna is going to have her own hurdles to deal with as she "has to survive on her own" to "keep the family whole so there's something for Roger to come back to." Ooh. Very intriguing. There's a couple of things that could be going on here.

The first is authorities might get involved over the disappearance of both Jemmy and Roger, as well as Rob Cameron who kidnapped the sweet young boy. Bree may also start to face even more sexism because she doesn't have her husband anymore, while taking care of their daughter Mandy.

Outlander season 7B, aka part 2, premieres Friday, Nov. 22, 2024 on Starz .

This article was originally published on showsnob.com as Matthew B. Roberts on what it's like for the Frasers to head home again in Outlander season 7 part 2 .

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Breaking news, aly raisman talks glamour muscles and the olympic gymnastics scoring scandal at the prabal gurung show.

Aly Raisman is baring arms. 

The television commentator and retired gymnast, who owns six Olympic medals including three golds, is ready to flaunt her biceps. 

“When I was younger, I used to get made fun of for being too muscular,” she told Alexa at the Prabal Gurung spring 2025 runway show, held under the limestone archway near City Hall Park. “Literally, up until a few months ago, I would not wear tank dresses or tank tops or sleeveless things.”

“I sort of just had this moment, maybe it was around when I turned 30, where I’m just going to wear what I want to wear and not worry about what other people think or how my body looks in something,” explained the athlete, who rocked a crystal-studded black minidress with strappy sandals. “It’s just interesting and kind of crazy how being made fun of when I was in fifth grade sticks with you for so long! I’m letting go of all that stuff, so it’s been great!” she added. “It was kind of a big deal for me in Paris [at the Games] because I was showing off my arms.”

Raisman is up in arms about the Olympics gymnastics scoring controversy , which saw her friend Jordan Chiles originally place fifth in the individual artistic floor exercise, then win a bronze medal after her coach filed an inquiry over the difficulty score. However, after the Romanian team appealed the decision, Chiles was stripped of her medal since her inquiry was supposedly not filed within a minute after her final score was posted, as required. 

The U.S. team then submitted new time-stamped video evidence that the inquiry had in fact been submitted in 47 seconds, but the Court of Arbitration for Sport said it cannot reconsider its decision. Now USA Gymnastics and the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee are filing an appeal with the Swiss Federal Tribunal, the highest court in Switzerland. 

“I think it’s so unfair what’s happening, and it’s not right,” exclaimed Raisman. “I love Jordan Chiles so much and I am so determined to help her in any way that I can. Fingers crossed and she deserves to have the medal.”

Raisman said she was confused by the timekeeping issue. “It makes no sense because according to the rules, it’s someone’s job to keep the time, so they’re not allowed to accept the inquiry unless it’s under the minute. So somebody who was taking the time accepted it, which means it was under that minute time frame. And then the judges admitted that they made a mistake with the scoring. I think there needs to be more transparency and answers and more accountability for how this happened. The IOC has given more than one medal before, so I’m not sure why they’re doing this,” she added. 

“The whole thing is so devastating and so unfair. I can’t even imagine what this has been like for her but I’m so proud of her.”

Fashion fan Raisman admired plenty of sleeveless day and evening looks on Gurung’s cobblestone runway, which the models navigated on high heels while an orchestra played classical music. A gentle breeze turned the full skirts and long scarves into floaty works of art.

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