Departing from Edinburgh in the morning, we will head north across the Firth of Forth towards the Tuilyies Standing Stones, much like the ones we frequently see in Outlander, used as markers of where travellers can pass through and travel in time.
From there, and no doubt after a few attempts at time travel, we head towards the Royal Burgh of Culross. This picturesque village is a textbook example of a 17th century village in Scotland. You might recognise the village from Outlander, as it feature as Claire’s herb garden, and the Mercat Cross in the show’s Cranesmuir Village.
We continue towards Doune Castle (optional extra), which featured as Castle Leoch in Outlander, the seat of Clan MacKenzie. You might also recognise this medieval stronghold from many other different films and tv programmes such as Game of Thrones and Monty Python and the Holy Grail. On our way, we will pass the historic and imposing Stirling Castle, which sits proudly over the city of Stirling, high on volcanic rock. You can visit Stirling Castle on our Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies tour from Edinburgh.
Our tour then heads south, towards the Royal Burgh of Linlithgow, where you will have time to grab some lunch, and also visit Linlithgow Palace, Outlander’s Wentworth Prison (optional extra). The palace, with it’s impressive grounds overlooking stunning scenery, was originally used as a relaxing retreat for the Royal Family on journeys between Edinburgh and Stirling Castle.
From Linlithgow, we travel to Blackness, home to Blackness Castle (optional extra), affectionately known as “the ship that never sailed” due to its triangular shape, which juts out into the Forth. In Outlander, Blackness Castle is used as the set for Fort William, the headquarters of Black Jack Randall. Look down the Forth towards Edinburgh and you will be met with a view of the 3 bridges that span the water.
Our final stop of the day depends on the time of year that you travel. In the summer months, we will continue to Midhope Castle (optional extra). This 16th century townhouse was the backdrop to Lallybroch, Jamie Fraser’s family home. Spend time here for photos and soak up the atmosphere and keep an eye out for Jamie, just in case. Should Midhope be closed for filming, or if your tour is in winter, we will instead continue to the Forth Bridges. Spanning 3 centuries of Scottish engineering and innovation, these impressive structures connect the Kingdom of Fife to the Lothians and serve as a vital transport link for the country.
Then, your Outlander tour will return to Edinburgh where you can stay in town and explore some of the city centre’s sights. Or, just head back to your accommodation and binge some more Outlander.
• Please note: from 3rd December 2024 our Edinburgh tours will depart from NCP Castle Terrace, EH1 2EW.
