Edinburgh: Outlander Castles Day Trip with Entry & Guide

Summary

Outlander filming sites from Edinburgh with castle entries included

You’ll step right into Outlander’s world on this small group day trip from Edinburgh—posing at Lallybroch (Midhope Castle), exploring Blackness and Doune Castles with entry included, and wandering Culross’ storybook streets. With a local guide sharing behind-the-scenes tales and plenty of time for photos or quiet moments by the loch, it’s more than just checking off locations—it feels personal.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed as we left Edinburgh was how quickly the city faded and those rolling green hills took over. Our guide, Kirsty, had this knack for dropping little facts about Outlander filming spots just as we rounded each bend — like she knew exactly when we’d start craning our necks. At Midhope Castle (Lallybroch for the fans), you can’t go inside, but standing in front of that weathered stone archway felt oddly familiar. I got a bit awkward posing for photos — not quite Jamie material — but everyone seemed to be doing the same.

Blackness Castle was next, jutting out into the Firth of Forth like it’s daring someone to attack. The wind there was sharp, almost salty, and I swear my scarf nearly blew off twice. Inside, the walls were cold to the touch and you could almost hear boots echoing through those empty rooms (or maybe that was just my imagination running wild after Kirsty’s stories about Fort William scenes). We had time to wander at our own pace — no rush, which I appreciated.

Lunch happened in Linlithgow, where some folks grabbed sandwiches by the loch and others explored the palace ruins. There’s this view across the water that just kind of stops you for a second; I didn’t expect to feel so quiet there. Later at Doune Castle (Castle Leoch), Kirsty let us know our entry was sorted already — she even pointed out her favorite spot in the great hall where they filmed that big feast scene. The stone steps were slippery and uneven; watch your footing if it’s rained recently.

Culross was last — golden light on cobbles, old ladies tending gardens, a cat slinking past Claire’s herb patch (yes, really). It smells faintly of wood smoke and something sweet I couldn’t place. If you’re an Outlander fan or just like poking around old villages, this part feels like wandering through a memory you half-remember from TV or maybe a dream. On the way back to Edinburgh, everyone was quieter than before — maybe tired or maybe just letting it all settle in.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Outlander locations day trip from Edinburgh

• Visit Midhope Castle for photos
• Explore Blackness Castle entrance
• Lunch and explore Linlithgow Palace area
• Tour Doune Castle entrance
• Visit Culross village and Claire's herb garden

Top questions

Is entry to Doune Castle included in this Outlander tour?

Yes, admission to Doune Castle is included in the tour price.

How many people are on each Outlander locations tour?

The maximum group size is 16 passengers per tour.

Can you go inside Midhope Castle during the tour?

No, visitors cannot go inside Midhope Castle but can take photos outside.

Is lunch provided on this day trip from Edinburgh?

No lunch is provided; you have free time at Linlithgow Palace to buy lunch or explore.

Are there any age restrictions for this tour?

The minimum age is 5 years old; children under 5 are not accepted.

Which filming locations are visited on this Outlander day trip?

The tour visits Midhope Castle (Lallybroch), Blackness Castle (Fort William), Linlithgow Palace (Wentworth Prison), Doune Castle (Castle Leoch), and Culross (Cranesmuir).

What happens if one of the castles is closed?

If a castle is closed on your date, alternative attractions such as Aberdour Castle or extra time at other stops will be provided at no extra cost.

Does this Outlander tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; check-in closes 15 minutes before departure in Edinburgh.

What’s included

Your day includes travel in a comfortable Mercedes mini-coach with up to 16 fellow travelers, entry fees for Doune and Blackness Castles already sorted by your guide, reserved tickets for Midhope Castle photo stops when available, plus all those stories along the way—just bring some cash for lunch at Linlithgow and curiosity for everything else.