From Glasgow: Castles, Clans & Outlander Day Tour

If you’re a fan of the hit TV series Outlander or simply love exploring Scotland’s breathtaking scenery and historic castles, this guided day trip from Glasgow might just be your perfect adventure. This small-group tour offers a generous 9.5 hours, taking you through the highlights of the Highlands and into the world of Claire and Jamie. While it’s tailored for Outlander enthusiasts, the stunning locations and storytelling appeal make it attractive to anyone who appreciates authentic Scottish scenery.

What we particularly like about this tour is the way it combines the show’s beloved sites—like Doune Castle and Lallybroch—with actual Scottish landmarks, giving you a taste of history and fiction at once. The guide’s knowledge and friendly approach are often praised, adding a personal touch that makes the experience memorable. One small consideration is that, because it’s a full-day trip, it requires a good dose of enthusiasm and patience for long bus rides. But for those keen to see a variety of locations without the hassle of planning, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits travelers eager to combine pop culture with history, those visiting Glasgow looking for a day out of the city, or Outlander fans wanting to step into their favorite scenes. If you’re after a well-organized, reasonably priced day that offers authentic scenery and engaging storytelling, this tour should be on your list.

Key Points

• Expert guides make the story come alive with interesting details
• Visits iconic filming locations like Doune Castle, Culross, and Midhope Castle
• A balanced mix of scenic landscapes and historic sites
• Affordable price point offers good value for a full-day experience
• Comfortable transportation ensures smooth travel between sites
• Suitable for those who love both outdoor beauty and Scottish history

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Look at the Outlander Tour from Glasgow

We’ll start with the logistics—the tour begins at Buchanan Street Bus Station, a central and easy-to-find location in Glasgow. After gathering, your small group boards a comfortable coach, setting out on a journey that lasts approximately 9.5 hours. The route is thoughtfully arranged, with plenty of commentary from your guide—an element that many reviews highlight as a real plus.

The First Stop: Doune Castle – Castle Leoch

Our first major destination is Doune Castle, a 14th-century fortress that’s instantly recognizable to Outlander fans as Castle Leoch. Here, you’ll have about an hour to explore the sturdy stone walls, towers, and courtyards. We loved the way the guide painted a vivid picture of what life might have been like here for Scottish clans. Walking through the ruins, it’s easy to imagine yourself as part of the scene, especially if you’ve watched the show.

While the castle is mainly an exterior visit, it’s perfect for photos and soaking up the atmosphere. The fact that it’s a real medieval fortress makes it more than just a filming location—it’s a piece of Scotland’s history. Plus, the location offers great views of the surrounding landscape, which is a bonus for photo enthusiasts.

Exploring Culross: Cranesmuir Comes Alive

Next, we visit Culross, a charming village that’s become the fictional town of Cranesmuir in Outlander. The cobbled streets, historic buildings, and herb gardens give a genuine 18th-century feel. You’ll have approximately 70 minutes of free time here to wander at your own pace.

The highlight is Claire’s herb garden, which is even more enchanting in real life, with plants that look like they belong to another era. The guide shares stories about the village’s architecture and its role in the series, enriching the experience. Many travelers find Culross to be a real highlight—an authentic Scottish village that looks straight out of the show’s period scenes.

Falkland and the Ghost of Jamie

From Culross, the tour moves to Falkland, a picturesque town that played the part of 1940s Inverness. Here, you’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore, grab lunch, and visit the Bruce Fountain, where Jamie’s ghost first appeared in the series.

This spot is great for fans and newcomers alike—it’s easy to see why Falkland has become a must-visit for Outlander fans. We enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to soak in the local scenery. The guide’s stories about the filming and history add context that makes the location even more special.

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Lallybroch: Midhope Castle

A highlight for Outlander fans is the visit to Midhope Castle, known as Lallybroch, Jamie’s family estate. The exterior is still impressive, though the interior remains in ruins. Still, the grounds are a perfect setting for photos and imagining life as Jamie’s kin.

Some reviews mention the limited interior access, but most agree that the grounds alone are worth the stop. It’s a chance to step into the show’s fictional world, a tangible connection to Jamie’s story.

Fort William and Blackness Castle

The last few stops include Blackness Castle, a striking fortress overlooking the Firth of Forth. It’s featured as Fort William in the series, making it another location where fans can walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters. The views from the castle are spectacular, and about an hour is allotted for exploring the exterior and taking photos.

The final stop is a quick photo opportunity at Blackness Castle before heading back to Glasgow. The return journey is around an hour, giving you time to reflect on your day.

The Practical Stuff: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour includes transportation and a friendly local guide, making it straightforward for travelers who want to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving or navigating. The price—around $54 per person—represents solid value, especially considering the number of locations and the stories you’ll hear.

However, admission fees to the castles (Midhope, Blackness, and Doune) are not included, so you should budget for those if you want to go inside. Food and drink are also extra, so packing snacks or planning to buy lunch in Falkland or Culross is a good idea.

Timing and Flexibility

Departure is early in the day, and the schedule is tight but manageable. The itinerary is subject to change based on weather or other factors, but the stops are generally reliable. The tour runs with live guides in English, with audio guides available in several languages, enhancing the experience for international visitors.

Accessibility and Suitability

While the tour is generally suitable for most adults, it’s not recommended for children under 18. Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated, provided assistance is available. Be prepared for some walking and uneven surfaces at castles and villages.

Authentic Experiences and Reviewer Insights

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides—like Scott and Liz—for making the trip engaging and informative. One reviewer described their guide as “fantastic,” noting the “interesting details and stories” that brought the locations to life.

Another review called the experience “absolutely fabulous,” emphasizing that even those unfamiliar with the show could enjoy the scenery, castles, and storytelling. The combination of “cinematic charm and cultural depth” seems to resonate well with most.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a dedicated Outlander fan, this tour offers a chance to step into the scenes you love and see where they were filmed. The stops are well-chosen, balancing narrative, scenery, and history. If you’re interested in Scottish castles and charming villages, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

This trip is also ideal for travelers who prefer guided tours to self-driving, especially those who want to maximize their time with expert commentary. Because it’s a full day, it suits those with a moderate level of stamina and a desire to see a lot in one go.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

For fans of Outlander or lovers of Scottish scenery, this day trip offers a good mix of cinematic locations, historic sites, and beautiful landscapes. It’s a value-packed experience that provides meaningful insights from knowledgeable guides, making the Scottish Highlands accessible and engaging without the hassle of planning multiple separate visits.

The stops at Doune, Culross, Falkland, Midhope, and Blackness Castle are thoughtfully selected, each offering a different flavor of Scottish history, architecture, and scenery. The tour’s flexible schedule, comfortable transport, and lively guides add to its appeal.

While it doesn’t include inside access to all castles, the exterior views and storytelling compensate well, giving you a tangible connection to the show and Scotland’s past. It’s best suited for those who love stories, scenery, and a touch of cinematic magic—perfect for making your Scottish adventure truly memorable.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers transportation and the guide. Entry to castles like Midhope, Blackness, and Doune is not included but can be added if you wish to explore inside.

How long are the visits at each location?
Visit durations vary, with about an hour at Doune Castle, 70 minutes in Culross, 1.5 hours in Falkland, 30 minutes at Midhope, and around an hour at Blackness Castle.

Is food provided?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy lunch locally.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s generally not recommended for children under 18 due to the length and walking involved.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated, but assistance may be needed for boarding and disembarking.

This tour offers a well-rounded, entertaining way to explore Scotland’s Highlands through the lens of Outlander, making it a memorable highlight of any Scottish itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: