Outlander Filming Locations in Scotland: A Must-Visit Guide for Fans

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Outlander, the globally beloved series inspired by Diana Gabaldon’s novels, has brought Scotland’s stunning landscapes and rich history to life. If you’re an Outlander fan, you’re in for a treat as we take you on a journey to the series’ most iconic filming locations. This guide will explore the magical spots that have graced your screens and explain why you must visit them on your next trip to Scotland.

Falkland: Inverness of the 1940s and 1960s 

The picturesque village of Falkland in Fife transforms into 1940s and 1960s Inverness in the series. Its quaint cobbled streets and well-preserved architecture make it instantly recognisable to Outlander fans.

• The Covenanter Hotel: Portrayed as Mrs. Baird’s B&B, where Frank and Claire stay during their second honeymoon. While the interior shots were filmed in a studio, the exterior looks exactly as it does in the show. You can even book a room here for an authentic Outlander experience. 

• Tyndall Bruce Fountain: Located in the village square, this fountain is where Frank glimpses Jamie’s ghost watching Claire. Built in 1856, the fountain is a must-see for fans recreating this iconic scene. 

• Falkland Palace: A short walk from the village square, Falkland Palace’s East Range cellar doubles as the apothecary where Claire meets Mary Hawkins. Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, the palace is a historical gem worth exploring. 

Doune Castle: Castle Leoch, Home of Clan MacKenzie 

This 14th-century stronghold plays a prominent role in the series, appearing in numerous episodes. 

• Take the Outlander-themed audio tour narrated by Sam Heughan (Jamie Fraser). It provides fascinating behind-the-scenes insights into how the castle was transformed for the show. 

• While the exterior is easily recognisable, many of the interior shots were filmed on studio sets. Visitors can still explore Doune Castle’s Great Hall, kitchens, and battlements to imagine life as a MacKenzie. 

• The castle’s real history is equally compelling. It was used as a royal retreat and hunting lodge for Scottish monarchs until the 17th century. 

Located just an hour from Edinburgh or Glasgow, Doune Castle is a must-visit for history buffs and Outlander fans alike. 

Midhope Castle: Lallybroch, Jamie’s Ancestral Home

Midhope Castle, or Lallybroch, is one of the most beloved Outlander filming locations. This 15th-century tower house holds a special place in the series as a symbol of family, loyalty, and love. 

• The castle’s exterior is instantly recognisable from Seasons 1-4. While the interior is inaccessible due to its derelict state, fans can walk through the courtyard where Jamie introduces Claire to his sister Jenny. 

Nearby Locations: 

• Just a short walk from Midhope, follow the stream to find the spot where Fergus loses his hand in a dramatic scene. 
• A bit further, explore Dun Bonnet Cave, where Jamie hides from the British Government Forces in Season 3. 

Midhope Castle is located on private property, so access is limited and subject to closures for farming activities or filming. To ensure a seamless visit, join one of our 1-day or 2-day Outlander tours. These tours include a stop at Midhope Castle, allowing you to explore this iconic filming location and nearby landmarks with the convenience and expertise of a professional guide.

Hopetoun House: The Duke of Sandringham’s Estate

This magnificent 17th-century estate near Edinburgh has been transformed into several iconic Outlander locations, including the stately home of the Duke of Sandringham and various Parisian streets.

• Red Drawing Room: Known for its lavish décor, this room is where Claire blackmails the Duke of Sandringham to secure Jamie’s pardon.
• Helwater Estate: Several staterooms doubled as rooms at Helwater, where Jamie served as a groomsman.
• Duel Scene: The dramatic duel between Jamie and the Duke of Sandringham was filmed here, as well as the poignant moment when Jamie first sees Willie in the pram.
• Parisian Streets: The estate’s grounds and alleyways featured prominently, including the entrance to Maison de Madame Elise.

Hopetoun House is a treasure trove of Outlander locations, blending grandeur with cinematic history.

Culloden Battlefield: The End of the Jacobite Dream 

The Battle of Culloden is a cornerstone of Outlander’s storyline. While the battle scenes were filmed at Cumbernauld Glen, the real battlefield near Inverness is a solemn and moving site. 

• The visitor centre features exhibits detailing the Jacobite rebellion, including weapons, letters, and clothing from the period. 

• Visitors can pay their respects at the Fraser clan memorial stone, as Claire does in the series.

Culross: Cranesmuir

Culross, a beautifully preserved 16th-century village in Fife, serves as Cranesmuir in Outlander. Its cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and historical charm make it an enchanting stop for fans. 

• Mercat Cross: Featured prominently in scenes of Cranesmuir, including Geillis Duncan’s witch trial. 

• Culross Palace Gardens: Represent Claire’s herb garden at Castle Leoch. 

• The Town House: The 1626 building served as the setting for the pillory scenes in Cranesmuir. 

• West Kirk: Used as the abandoned Black Kirk in Season 1. 

Callendar House: Duke of Sandringham’s House

This elegant 14th-century estate played a pivotal role in the series, serving as the location for some of its most dramatic scenes. 

• Featured in Season 2, Callendar House’s 19th-century Georgian kitchen was transformed into the Duke of Sandringham’s kitchen. 

•  This is the setting for the tense and unforgettable scene where Murtagh avenges Mary Hawkins by killing the Duke.

Callendar House, located beside the Antonine Wall—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Roman Empire’s most northerly frontier—is a treasure trove of history. The site offers an engaging interactive exhibition on the Wall, showcasing its significance as a vital defensive line and a marvel of ancient engineering. Combining cinematic charm with rich heritage, Callendar House is a must-visit for history lovers and Outlander enthusiasts exploring Scotland. 

Kinloch Rannoch: Craigh na Dun’s Mystical Stones 

The fictional Craigh na Dun, where Claire begins her time-travel journey, was filmed near Kinloch Rannoch on Rannoch Moor. The standing stones in the show were created from Styrofoam, but the area’s enchanting beauty is very real.

• The moorland surrounding the area provides stunning views, with rolling hills and a serene loch adding to the otherworldly feel. While the stones were created from styrofoam, fans can visit the private farm where scenes were shot (with permission). 
• Kinloch Rannoch is remote, so plan ahead for your visit. Though it lacks tourist infrastructure, its unspoiled scenery makes it a worthwhile stop for any Outlander enthusiast.

Abercorn Church 

Located near Midhope Castle, Abercorn Church appears in Season 4 as a graveyard in Boston. 

• Dating back to the 11th century, the church’s historical significance is undeniable. Visitors can also explore its museum, which houses ancient artefacts. 

• The surrounding churchyard contains fascinating gravestones with intricate carvings predating widespread literacy.

Blackness Castle: The Iconic Fort William in Outlander 

The 15th-century Blackness Castle is a striking location on the Firth of Forth coastline, serving as Fort William in Seasons 1 and 2 of Outlander. Nicknamed the “ship that never sailed” due to its ship-like appearance when viewed from the sea, Blackness Castle boasts a dramatic history and unforgettable Outlander scenes. 

Key reasons to visit Blackness Castle: 

• Fort William scenes: The rocky courtyard is where Jamie was flogged by Black Jack Randall while Highlanders, including his father, were forced to watch. 

• Rescue and escape: The archway at the entrance is where Jamie and Murtagh captured a Redcoat during Claire’s rescue. The walls and shoreline were used for Jamie and Claire’s daring escape by jumping into the sea. 

• Historical features: Metal handrails were replaced with wooden fences, and a pillory was constructed to enhance the historical authenticity for filming. 

Beyond Outlander, Blackness Castle’s rich history includes serving as a royal residence, military fort, and prison for over 400 years. Today, it remains an essential stop for fans and history enthusiasts alike, just 40 minutes from Edinburgh. The castle is open year-round, but check for seasonal hours. 

The Highland Folk Museum: 18th-century Highland village 

The Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore is a captivating open-air attraction that recreates life in the Scottish Highlands through the centuries. Featured in Season 1 of Outlander, it portrayed a typical 18th-century Highland village in the episode Rent. 

• The 18th-century township’s thatched cottages set the stage for Claire and Jamie’s travels before the Jacobite Uprising. 

• Key scenes include Claire joining Jamie and the MacKenzie clan as they collect rent from villagers. 

Located 45 miles south of Inverness, this Outlander gem is a highlight of our 2-day Outlander Trail Small Group Tour.

Glen Coe: Outlander’s Iconic Opening Credits 

While not a filming location, Glen Coe’s rugged beauty features in the opening credits of every Outlander episode. With its majestic mountains, cascading rivers, and dramatic history, this iconic Highland valley sets the tone for the series. 

Glen Coe was the site of the 1692 Massacre of Glen Coe, where nearly 40 members of the MacDonald clan were killed, fuelling the Jacobite uprisings. Conveniently located between Edinburgh and Glasgow, Glen Coe is an essential stop for Outlander enthusiasts and a gateway to other filming locations.

With our 1-day and 2-day Outlander tours, you’ll enjoy seamless travel, insider stories about the filming process, and the chance to walk in the footsteps of your favourite characters without the hassle of planning or driving. Our experienced guides bring the series to life, sharing fascinating history and little-known secrets about the iconic locations.