From Glasgow: Outlander Castles and The Scottish Countryside

Discovering the Magic of Outlander: A Detailed Review of the Scottish Countryside Tour from Glasgow

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into the world of Outlander, this guided day trip from Glasgow offers a taste of the Highlands’ most famous filming spots and scenic landscapes. While we haven’t personally wandered these historic grounds, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest this tour is an authentic and enriching experience for fans and curious travelers alike.

What makes this trip stand out? We love the variety of iconic locations, from medieval castles to charming villages; the scenic drives through the Scottish countryside that offer plenty of breathtaking views; and the knowledgeable local guides who add context and stories that bring every site alive. The only potential hiccup? The full-day schedule means a long, sometimes tiring day, especially if you’re not used to early starts or long bus rides.

This tour is ideal for Outlander fans eager to see the series’ filming sites, history lovers wanting a glimpse of historic Scottish castles, or anyone seeking a scenic journey through the Highlands’ picturesque landscapes. It’s a well-balanced mix of culture, scenery, and TV magic, making it a good choice for those ready for a full-day adventure.

Key Points

• Iconic Filming Locations: Visit the castles and villages that brought Outlander’s story to life.
• Scenic Highland Views: Expect plenty of time to enjoy Scotland’s natural beauty.
• Expert Local Guides: Guides provide engaging stories and insights that deepen the experience.
• Comfortable Transportation: Modern coach with audio guides in multiple languages.
• Flexible Itinerary: Stops and order may vary, depending on day and circumstances.
• Value for Fans and Sightseers: Combining a TV-themed tour with cultural exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Outlander Castles and The Scottish Countryside Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure kicks off from Glasgow’s Buchanan Street Bus Station, a central and convenient meeting spot. Arrive 15 minutes early to catch your blue bus, and get ready for a full day of Scottish landscapes and history. The journey is facilitated by a modern coach that offers a comfortable ride across the countryside, with an audio guide available in Italian, French, Spanish, German, Portuguese, and Mandarin, ensuring many travelers can follow along in their preferred language.

The drive between stops typically lasts around an hour, giving you time to settle in, stretch your legs, and enjoy the scenery. Reviews consistently mention the smooth transportation, which is crucial for a long 13-hour day — nobody wants to feel cramped or rushed.

First Stop: Doune Castle – Castle Leoch

Next, you arrive at Doune Castle, famous to Outlander fans as Castle Leoch, the seat of Clan MacKenzie. This 14th-century fortress is remarkably well-preserved and offers a tangible connection to the series. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the grounds, appreciate the medieval architecture, and picture the scenes that made this location iconic.

Multiple reviews praise Doune Castle for its impressive size and atmosphere. One reviewer notes, “Walking through Doune felt like stepping into the show — the stone walls and towers are every bit as atmospheric as I imagined.” While entry isn’t included in the tour price, many find it worthwhile to purchase tickets for a deeper exploration.

The Charm of Culross

A highlight for many is Culross, a tiny village that doubles as Cranesmuir, the fictional setting of Claire’s herb garden. The cobbled streets evoke a 17th-century feel, and the herb garden—used as a filming location—is a perfect photo opportunity.

Expect about 70 minutes here, giving ample time to wander and soak in the historic atmosphere. Reviewers mention that Culross’s quaint charm and authentic feel make it an unforgettable stop. One traveler shared, “The streets are so well-preserved, it’s like stepping back in time. Plus, spotting Claire’s herb garden was a delight.”

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Falkland and Inverness’s 1940s Charm

Next, the tour moves to Falkland, a town that doubles as 1940s Inverness. Here, you’ll enjoy a leisurely break, exploring landmarks like the Bruce Fountain, where Jamie’s ghost appeared in the opening episode of Outlander. This stop offers a chance to enjoy a relaxed lunch and see a town that still feels like it’s frozen in a vintage film set.

One review notes, “Falkland’s quiet streets and the fountain make for a perfect photo backdrop, and it’s a lovely place to reconnect with the series’ story.” The roughly 1.5 hours allotted for this stop allow for both sightseeing and downtime.

Midhope Castle (Lallybroch)

Perhaps the most beloved location is Midhope Castle, known as Lallybroch, Jamie Fraser’s ancestral home. While you can’t enter the castle itself, standing outside and walking around the estate feels like stepping into the series. The peaceful surroundings and stunning views make it an ideal spot for photos.

A reviewer described it as “the heart of the tour,” emphasizing how standing before Lallybroch felt like a real-life connection to the show. Its remote location offers tranquility and spectacular scenery, perfect for fans wanting that out-of-show moment of authenticity.

Blackness Castle and Fort William

The final filming site is Blackness Castle, portraying Fort William. Perched over the Firth of Forth, it offers sweeping vistas and a dramatic backdrop for photos. Visitors can explore the ramparts, imagining the scenes that took place here in the series.

One guest shared, “The views from Blackness Castle are stunning, and the castle itself is so atmospheric—it’s like being on a movie set.” After this, the tour begins the return journey to Glasgow, arriving just in time for dinner.

Additional Practical Details

While the tour does not include entrance fees to the castles and sites, the value lies in the guided storytelling, the scenic drives, and the convenience of transportation. It’s advised to bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera to capture the spectacular landscapes and historic sites.

The tour operates with a flexible itinerary, meaning stops might shift based on weather or operational considerations. For example, if a castle is unavailable, Linlithgow Palace might replace it, ensuring you still see a stunning exterior site.

Reviews and Insights

Many travelers appreciate the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides, who bring the locations to life with stories and series trivia. One reviewer raved about the guide, saying, “Our guide, Fiona, was fantastic—she knew every detail and made the history engaging and fun.” Others mention that the long travel hours are balanced by the visual rewards and storytelling, making the experience feel well-rounded.

The value of this tour is clear: it combines TV fandom with Scottish history and scenery, offering a full day of exploration in a comfortable, organized manner. It’s especially suited for Outlander fans, but anyone interested in Scottish castles or beautiful drives will find plenty to enjoy.

The Sum Up

This Outlander-themed tour from Glasgow offers a well-curated blend of filming locations, historic sites, and stunning Highland views. It’s ideal for fans eager to connect with their favorite series and for travelers who love scenic day trips with a cultural twist. The guided element adds depth and context, making the experience more than just sightseeing — it’s storytelling on the move.

While it’s a full-day commitment, the combination of comfortable transport, knowledgeable guides, and iconic locations makes it a worthwhile option for those wanting to see the Highlands through the lens of Outlander. The breathtaking scenery, especially around Blackness Castle and Lallybroch, ensures you’ll leave with memories and photos to last a lifetime.

If you’re prepared for a long day that’s packed with Scottish history, TV magic, and amazing landscapes, this tour offers excellent value and an authentic connection to the series. Perfect for fans, history buffs, and travelers craving a scenic adventure, it’s a comprehensive way to experience the best of what the Scottish countryside has to offer.

FAQ

What is the starting point for the tour?
The tour begins at Buchanan Street Bus Station in Glasgow, where you meet 15 minutes before departure at stance 23 to 32, looking out for a blue bus.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience is approximately 13 hours, making it a full-day trip.

Are entrance fees to castles included?
No, entry to Doune, Blackness, or Midhope Castle is not included. You might want to purchase tickets separately if you wish to explore inside.

Is food included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but there will be opportunities to buy lunch during the Falkland stop.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 5 years old, and children aged 5-17 must be accompanied by an adult. It’s a long day, so consider your child’s stamina.

Can I bring a wheelchair?
Collapsible wheelchairs are permitted if accompanied by someone to assist with boarding, but the tour is not suitable for non-folding wheelchairs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, and your headset if using the audio guide are recommended.

What if a site is closed?
If a castle is unavailable, Linlithgow Palace may be substituted as an exterior visit, ensuring you still enjoy Scottish historic scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: