Outlander has done for central Scotland what The Lord of the Rings did for New Zealand: it has made a landscape into a character. Diana Gabaldon's time-travelling novels and the television series based on them draw fans from all over the world to the castles, villages and glens where scenes were filmed, and Glasgow is a convenient base, since much of that country is within easy reach of the city. A dedicated tour is the best way to see it, because the locations are scattered and some are hard to reach without a car. This nine-hour tour from Glasgow is sold as including admissions, which is a considerable benefit as several of the best-known sites charge for entry. It is a day for fans of the series, for those curious about the real Jacobite history behind the story, and for anyone who simply enjoys a castle and a village with a good guide. Expect plenty of commentary, from the filming anecdotes to the real events of the eighteenth century, and photo stops at places that will look familiar if you know the show.
Practical details
The day lasts about nine hours and starts and ends in Glasgow, with the pick-up point and time shown at booking. The tour page lists the stops and what is included, and it is worth reading before you go, because the exact locations can vary between departures and with filming or maintenance schedules. Bring a packed lunch or money for a cafe stop, and dress for changeable weather with comfortable walking shoes.
What to expect
The pace is relaxed but full, with stops at castles and villages, plenty of walking on paths and cobbles, and commentary on the coach in between. Fans will enjoy spotting the places they know, while non-fans still get a good introduction to Scottish castles and landscapes. Because it is built around real places, the tour makes sense even for those who have only seen a few episodes, and the guide can adapt the stories to the group.
Choosing
This is the right tour if the series is what draws you, since it concentrates on that. If you prefer a general scenic day, a Loch Lomond or Highlands tour offers more of the lochs and mountains. For history without the television link, a Stirling Castle visit is closer to the real events. Whichever you choose, book ahead in summer, when Outlander tours are popular and the best dates sell out.
What to expect
The experience
A guided coach day from Glasgow to castles and villages used in the Outlander series, with admissions included and commentary on both the show and the real history.
Best time
Late spring to early autumn gives the best weather for outdoor stops, though castles are atmospheric all year.
How long
About nine hours from the Glasgow meeting point and back.
Tips
Read the stop list on the tour page, bring lunch money and wear comfortable walking shoes.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Outlander fans and history lovers who want castles and filming locations without driving.
- Families
- Good for teenagers who watch the series; note that the show itself is adult, and the tour stays family-friendly.
- Couples
- A popular romantic day out for fans of the books and the series.
- Pair with
- A Stirling Castle visit for the real history, or a Mackintosh tea in Glasgow.
- Time needed
- A full day of about nine hours.
Good questions
How long is the Outlander tour from Glasgow?+
It runs for about nine hours, starting and ending in Glasgow.
Are admissions included?+
The tour is sold including admissions. Check the tour page for the stops and exactly what is covered.
Do I need to have seen the series?+
No. The tour works as a castle and countryside day for non-fans, with extra enjoyment for fans.
Does the tour visit the same places every time?+
Stops can vary by departure and by filming or site schedules, so check the tour page before you go.
What should I bring?+
Comfortable shoes, a waterproof jacket and money for lunch.
