Scotland Outlander Tour: A Dreamy Journey Through Iconic Castles and Filming Sites

Are you an Outlander fan planning a Scotland Outlander trip and longing to step into the world of Claire and Jamie? Let this dreamy journey through iconic castles and filming locations transport you straight into the heart of the Highlands.

Scotland is a land of misty mountains, rugged coastlines, and centuries-old castles that tell the stories of warriors, clans, and legends. But for Outlander fans, this magical landscape is even more enchanting—it’s where Claire and Jamie’s epic love story unfolds.

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into the world of Outlander, this Scotland Outlander road trip will take you through some of the most iconic filming locations, from historic castles to ancient standing stones. Whether you’re a devoted fan (like me) or simply love Scotland’s rich history, this self-drive itinerary will transport you through time.

Pack your bags, cue the soundtrack, and get ready to explore Scotland’s spellbinding castle trail!

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Best Time to Visit Scotland for an Outlander Road Trip

Scotland is beautiful year-round, but the best time for an Outlander road trip is:

How Long Do You Need for a Scotland Outlander Road Trip?

For a well-paced Scotland Outlander road trip, plan for at least 5–7 days. If you want to dive deeper into Scotland’s castles and highlands, two weeks would be ideal.

Getting Around Scotland

The best way to explore Scotland’s Outlander filming locations is by renting a car. The roads are scenic, but keep in mind:

• Drive on the left side of the road!
• Some castle roads are narrow and winding, so take your time.
• Renting a small car is best for maneuvering in rural areas. (Especially if you are considering driving in the highlands)
• Get the rental insurance! We saw 2 vehicles with flat tires on the first day!

Day 1: Edinburgh – The Heart of Outlander’s Scotland

Your journey begins in Edinburgh, a city where history seeps from every cobblestone. Before heading into the Highlands, explore some key Outlander filming sites in the city.

Must-Visit Outlander Locations in Edinburgh

1. Holyrood Palace (Season 2)

In Outlander, Holyrood Palace is where Claire and Jamie meet Bonnie Prince Charlie in Paris. In reality, it’s the official residence of the British monarchy in Scotland and a breathtaking place to explore.

2. Bakehouse Close (Season 3 – A. Malcolm’s Print Shop)

Walk through Bakehouse Close, one of Edinburgh’s best-preserved historic streets, and you’ll recognize it instantly as Jamie’s print shop in Season 3.

Day 2: Midhope Castle & Blackness Castle – Jamie’s Home & Fort William

Leaving Edinburgh, head west to visit two other Outlander filming locations in Scotland that hold deep significance for Jamie’s story.

3. Midhope Castle – Lallybroch (Jamie’s Home)

No Scotland Outlander road trip is complete without visiting Lallybroch, Jamie Fraser’s beloved family home. This stop gave me literal butterflies as I was walking through the gate. In reality, this is Midhope Castle, a picturesque but abandoned 16th-century tower house.

4. Blackness Castle – Fort William (Season 1)

Blackness Castle stands in for Fort William, where Jamie was brutally whipped by Black Jack Randall. The castle juts out into the Firth of Forth, earning its nickname, “the ship that never sailed.”

Day 3: Doune Castle & Highland Roads

Driving deeper into Scotland, the landscapes become more dramatic as you head toward the Highlands.

5. Doune Castle – Castle Leoch (Season 1 & 2)

One of the most iconic Outlander castles, Doune Castle, is home to Clan Mackenzie. You can still walk the halls where Claire first arrived through the stones.

Day 4: Culross & Falkland – The Hidden Gems

6. Culross – Cranesmuir Village

The village of Culross stands in for Cranesmuir, home of Geillis Duncan. Walk through the cobbled streets, visit Culross Palace, and feel like you’ve stepped into the 18th century. You may remember it as the town where Claire was convicted of witchcraft.

7. Falkland – Inverness in Outlander

Falkland is where Claire and Frank stay in the 1940s. Visit the real-life “Mrs. Baird’s B&B” and see the iconic Bruce Fountain, where Jamie’s ghost appears.

Day 5: The Three Sisters of Glencoe – The Ultimate Highland View

8. The Three Sisters of Glencoe – Highland Beauty at Its Finest

Arguably one of the most breathtaking locations in Scotland, the Three Sisters of Glencoe were featured in Outlander as part of the opening credits. This area offers some of the most jaw-dropping mountain scenery in the country and is a must-stop for a photo or a short hike.

Day 6: Clava Cairns & Culloden

9. Clava Cairns – The Real Standing Stones?

While there’s no actual Craigh na Dun (sadly, it was just a set that was built), the Clava Cairns are an ancient stone circle that might have inspired Diana Gabaldon’s time-traveling stones.

10. Culloden Battlefield – The Tragic End of the Jacobites

The Battle of Culloden marks the end of the Highland way of life. This sobering site is a must-visit for Outlander fans to pay respects to Scotland’s fallen warriors. The Frasier Stone is currently roped off to prevent visitors from touching it.

Final Thoughts: Is Scotland’s Outlander Castle Trail Worth It?

If you love history, adventure, and a little bit of magic, this Scotland Outlander road trip outlines an unforgettable journey. You’ll stand in the places where Jamie and Claire’s love story unfolded, explore real-life castles, and witness the landscapes that have inspired centuries of Scottish legends.

This was an epic girls’ trip for us Outlander fans. What are you waiting for? Scotland is calling.