Outlander Castles & Palaces Filming Locations Tour

Step through the stones and travel back in time on this magical day trip dedicated to the spellbinding world of the hit television series, Outlander. This immersive tour is an absolute dream come true for fans of Diana Gabaldon’s epic saga, offering the unparalleled opportunity to walk in the very footsteps of Claire and Jamie Fraser. Leaving the modern streets of Edinburgh behind, we invite you to discover the stunning Scottish locations that brought this sweeping romance and thrilling historical drama to life on screen.

Beyond the undeniable cinematic allure, this journey provides a fascinating, deep dive into the authentic history that inspired the series. From royal palaces that hosted actual monarchs to imposing fortresses that endured the bloody Jacobite risings, each carefully selected stop offers a unique blend of fiction and reality. Experience the genuine romance, the heartbreaking tragedy, and the enduring spirit of the Scottish people as we explore the magnificent castles, quaint villages, and historic palaces of the Outlander universe.

Tour Highlights

• Midhope Castle (Lallybroch): Snap the perfect photograph outside the iconic 16th-century tower house that serves as Jamie Fraser’s beloved ancestral home.
• Blackness Castle (Fort William): Explore the formidable, ship-like fortress on the shores of the Firth of Forth, famously known as the imposing headquarters of the villainous Black Jack Randall.
• Linlithgow Palace (Wentworth Prison): Wander through the magnificent ruins of this royal pleasure palace, birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots, which featured as the harrowing Wentworth Prison.
• Culross (Cranesmuir): Step back into the 16th century in this perfectly preserved, picturesque burgh, used extensively for the filming of the fictional village of Cranesmuir.

Tour Itinerary: What to Expect

Your time-traveling adventure commences by traveling westward from Edinburgh towards our first iconic destination: Midhope Castle. Known affectionately to fans as Lallybroch, the exterior of this historic tower house instantly evokes memories of Jamie’s emotional return home. After capturing the perfect photo, we proceed to the intimidating Blackness Castle. Known as the 'ship that never sailed' due to its unique shape, this brutal stronghold provided the perfect, brooding backdrop for Fort William, where Jamie faced his darkest hours.

Next, we journey to the magnificent Linlithgow Palace. While its on-screen alter ego is the dreaded Wentworth Prison, in reality, this sprawling ruin was once a lavish retreat for Scottish royalty. Enjoy exploring the grand courtyards and ornate fountains before we head to the incredibly preserved royal burgh of Culross. Wandering through its cobbled streets is truly like stepping into a bygone era.

In Culross, which doubled as the village of Cranesmuir, you can visit the meticulously recreated herb garden behind the historic Culross Palace—the very spot where Claire gathered her medicinal plants. You will have ample time to explore the mustard-yellow palace, the quaint town square (site of the dramatic witch trial), and enjoy a leisurely lunch in this remarkably authentic 16th-century setting. As the day concludes, we return to Edinburgh, our heads full of romantic Highland tales and unforgettable memories.

Discovering the Charm of Culross (Cranesmuir)

The royal burgh of Culross is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque and authentically preserved historic towns in all of Scotland. Managed primarily by the National Trust for Scotland, wandering through its narrow, winding cobbled streets flanked by white-harled houses with red pantiled roofs feels like an absolute warp in time. For Outlander enthusiasts, Culross is instantly recognizable as Cranesmuir, the village closest to Castle Leoch and the home of the enigmatic Geillis Duncan. The town square with its imposing mercat cross was the focal point for many pivotal scenes, including the tense and dramatic witch trial. Beyond its cinematic fame, Culross offers a fascinating glimpse into a prosperous 16th and 17th-century Scottish port town. Visitors can explore the ochre-colored Culross Palace, complete with its beautifully restored period interiors and painted wooden ceilings. Behind the palace lies the meticulously planted historic herb garden, featuring species that would have been used for traditional culinary and medicinal purposes—perfectly mirroring Claire Fraser's own botanical pursuits. A visit to Culross is not merely a film location tour; it is a profound, sensory immersion into the genuine fabric of Scotland's vibrant historical tapestry.