From Glasgow: Castles, Clans & Outlander Day Tour

Exploring the Scottish Highlands through the lens of Outlander offers a unique way to connect with Scotland’s history, scenery, and storytelling magic. This small-group tour from Glasgow promises to take fans and curious travelers alike on a 9.5-hour journey through some of the most recognizable filming locations, combined with stunning Highland scenery. While it’s designed primarily for Outlander enthusiasts, the scenic beauty and historic castles make this a worthwhile experience even if you’ve never seen the show.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it balances cinematic highlights with authentic Scottish sites—from the ancient ruins of castles to charming villages that seem frozen in time. The tour’s guided commentary (available in multiple languages) adds depth, helping you understand the significance of each spot. On the downside, some travelers mention issues with audio guides, which could be frustrating if you’re expecting individual devices. Nonetheless, it’s a fantastic choice for those eager to see the Highlands with a dash of TV magic.

This experience is best suited for Outlander fans, history buffs, and lovers of scenic drives. It’s ideal for travelers who want a rundown of key Highland sites in one day. If you prefer leisurely, less structured days or are on a tight budget, you might want to consider other options. But if you’re after a well-organized tour that combines storytelling, history, and breathtaking scenery, this trip offers solid value.

Key Points

• Iconic filming locations: Visit Doune Castle, Culross, Falkland, Midhope Castle, and Blackness Castle—all seen on the show.
• Historic castles and ruins: Lallybroch and Fort William bring the show’s fictional world into real life.
• Charming villages: Culross and Falkland offer authentic Scottish town atmospheres and insights into local life.
• Breathtaking Highland views: The scenic drive and stops provide plenty of photo opportunities.
• Small-group atmosphere: A more intimate experience with a legendary local guide.
• Potential audio guide issues: Be prepared for the possibility of limited devices, as some reviews point out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at Buchanan Street Bus Station, a central Glasgow hub, about 15 minutes before departure. The coach ride is about 1 hour to the first stop, giving a chance to settle in and start soaking up the scenery. Modern, comfortable transportation makes the long day manageable, and the small group (often just a handful of travelers) enhances the feeling of a personalized journey.

Doune Castle – Castle Leoch

Your first major stop is Doune Castle, a 14th-century fortress that serves as Castle Leoch in Outlander. We loved the way this castle transports you back in time with its rugged stone walls and atmospheric courtyards. You’ll have about an hour here, giving you ample opportunity to wander and imagine Claire and Jamie walking these halls. The castle’s dramatic battlements, towers, and well-preserved interiors (though not always accessible inside) offer fantastic photo opportunities.

Culross – Cranesmuir

Next, the tour takes you to Culross, a picturesque village that doubles as the fictional Cranesmuir. The cobbled streets, quaint houses, and old-world charm feel like stepping into a different century. Here, you can stroll freely, breathing in the atmosphere of the 18th-century Scottish town. A highlight is Claire’s herb garden—though small, it adds to the authenticity, and the overall setting feels like a living museum. The visit lasts around 70 minutes, plenty of time to explore, shop, or grab a coffee.

More Great Tours Nearby

Falkland – Inverness and the Bruce Fountain

In Falkland, known for its well-preserved historic buildings, you’ll see the Bruce Fountain—famous for Jamie’s ghostly appearance in the series. The town’s quaint streets and atmosphere evoke the 1940s Inverness, setting the scene for Claire’s adventures. This stop lasts about 1.5 hours, giving you time to walk around, absorb the vibe, and maybe take some photos of the town’s charming architecture.

Midhope Castle – Lallybroch

Midhope Castle is a must-see for Outlander fans—the real-life home of Jamie Fraser’s family. While the interior remains in ruins, the grounds are open for exploration. We loved the opportunity to step onto what feels like a real estate set, imagining Jamie and his kin within these walls. The visit is around 30 minutes, so plan your photos and thoughts accordingly; it’s a tranquil spot that invites reflection.

Blackness Castle – Fort William

The final filming location is Blackness Castle, a formidable fortress overlooking the Firth of Forth. It played the role of Fort William in the series and offers more dramatic views. Expect about an hour here for photos and exploration. The views across the water are spectacular, and the castle’s imposing structure makes it a memorable finale for the day.

Return to Glasgow

After a full day of castles, villages, and Scottish scenery, the coach heads back to Buchanan Street. The return trip lasts about an hour, giving you time to process the day or chat with fellow travelers.

The Value of the Tour

While the price might seem high at nearly £260 per person, it covers transportation, a guide, and a full day of sightseeing in some of the most photogenic and storied locations in the Highlands. Skip entry fees, which are not included, and you’ll want to budget extra for meals or souvenirs. That said, the convenience of a guided day trip—especially one focused on Outlander locations—can be priceless for fans eager to see these sites without the hassle of independent planning.

Some travelers have expressed disappointment about the audio guides—one review noted that only three devices were provided for four people, which is frustrating when you’re paying a premium. The provided commentary, however, tends to be quite informative, and many appreciate the engaging storytelling from the local guide.

Practical Tips

Bring comfortable shoes for walking around castle grounds and villages, and weather-appropriate clothing as Scottish weather can change quickly. A camera is essential for capturing the stunning scenery, and a headset if you’re using an audio guide.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect if you’re a dedicated Outlander fan eager to stand where your favorite scenes were filmed. It’s also suitable for those interested in Scottish castles, charming villages, and Highland landscapes. The small-group setting and guided commentary make it ideal for travelers who prefer a more personalized, storytelling approach over large bus tours. However, if you’re sensitive to equipment issues or seeking a leisurely, less structured experience, it’s worth noting these considerations.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded look at some of Scotland’s most picturesque and film-famous locations, all within a manageable day from Glasgow. The blend of historic castles, authentic villages, and Highland vistas makes it a compelling choice for Outlander fans and scenery lovers alike. The small-group format fosters a friendly atmosphere, and the guide’s insights enrich the experience.

While some may find the audio guide limitations a drawback, most will appreciate the ease of transportation and the chance to see multiple key sites without the hassle of driving or complex planning. It’s a good way to get a taste of the Highlands, especially if you’re short on time but want a rich, story-filled day.

For lovers of Scottish history, TV fans, or those simply seeking beautiful landscapes, this tour delivers authentic sights with a touch of TV magic—making it a memorable part of any Scottish adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, your ticket includes comfortable coach transportation from Glasgow and back, making the long day easier to manage.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Buchanan Street Bus Station and ends there as well, making it convenient for travelers staying in Glasgow.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is about 9.5 hours, with the actual sightseeing lasting most of the day.

Are entry fees included?
No, entry to Midhope Castle, Blackness Castle, and Doune Castle is not included, so plan to budget for these if you want to go inside.

What about the guide?
A local guide with a penchant for storytelling leads the tour, and it’s available in several languages including English, Spanish, German, Chinese, Italian, Portuguese, and French.

Can I bring luggage?
Yes, each traveler can bring one suitcase (max 33lbs/15kg) and one carry-on. Collapsible wheelchairs are allowed if you’re accompanied to assist with boarding.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5, and it’s not suitable for wheelchairs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera are essential for making the most of the day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is this tour good value?
Considering the sites visited, the transportation, and the guide’s insights, it offers good value—especially for Outlander fans eager to see the scenery and filming locations firsthand.

This detailed, honest review aims to equip you with everything you need to decide if this tour matches your Scottish Highlands adventure dreams. Whether you’re a die-hard Outlander fan or a lover of castles and Scottish villages, this trip promises a blend of story, scenery, and history that’s hard to beat.

You can check availability for your dates here: