My 2-Day Outlander Experience Tour from Edinburgh Review (2025)

So you are obviously thinking about seeing the spots where Claire and Jamie’s story comes to life, right? Well, I just got back from the 2025 ‘2-Day Outlander Experience’ from Edinburgh and, honestly, I kind of have to tell you all about it. It’s pretty much more than just seeing some filming locations, you know. Actually, it’s a bit like stepping through the stones yourself, minus all the scary bits, of course. For two whole days, it’s almost as if the modern world just melts away, and you are just there, in their Scotland. This review is, in a way, my attempt to bottle up that feeling and share it with you.

So, Why a Small-Group Tour Anyway?

Okay, so first things first, you might be wondering about the whole “small-group” part. Honestly, it’s actually a really big deal. You are in this comfortable van, not a huge coach, so it just feels way more personal. The driver-guide, at least ours was, is sort of like your own personal Scottish storyteller. He knew, like, everything, not just the *Outlander* stuff but all the real history that happened in these places too. We could ask a million questions, and in a way, it felt more like a road trip with a very knowledgeable friend. We were able to get to spots that bigger buses just can’t, which is seemingly how you find those really special, quiet moments.

Day 1: Literally Stepping into the 18th Century

The first day, well, it is just jam-packed with some of the most iconic spots you can think of. You actually leave Edinburgh pretty early, when the city is still just a little bit sleepy. The excitement on the van was, like, totally real as we drove out into the countryside.

Morning in ‘Cranesmuir’ (Culross)

So our first main stop was Culross, which you will totally recognize as Cranesmuir. It’s basically like time just stopped here. You’re walking on these very old, cobbled streets, and it is almost unreal how preserved everything is. We saw Geillis Duncan’s house and the Mercat Cross, and for a second, you could almost hear the town gossip. The guide pointed out the herb garden behind the palace, just like the one Claire worked in. Actually walking those same paths was sort of surreal; it really does pull you straight into the story. It is a bit hilly, so good shoes are a very good idea here.

Afternoon at ‘Castle Leoch’ (Doune Castle)

You know, seeing Doune Castle in person is a definite highlight. It is really imposing and stands so strong, you can totally see why they picked it for Castle Leoch, the home of the MacKenzie clan. It’s actually a bit emptier inside than you might imagine, which in a way lets your own imagination fill in the blanks with all the fires, food, and people. A really cool thing is that the audio guide for the castle is narrated by Sam Heughan (Jamie himself), so you get his commentary as you wander through the great hall and kitchens. Hearing his voice in that setting is, you know, just a little bit perfect.

The ‘Lallybroch’ Moment at Midhope Castle

Alright, so this was the big one for me, and pretty much everyone else on the tour. Midhope Castle, or Lallybroch, isn’t really a castle anymore; it’s more of a beautiful ruin on a private estate. You can’t go inside, but honestly, that doesn’t even matter. Just standing outside, by that famous archway, is a really powerful moment for any fan. We had some time to just walk around, take pictures, and sort of sit with the feeling of it all. It’s a very quiet and moving place, you know. I actually just stood there for a while, imagining Jamie riding up. It’s a bit smaller in real life, but still absolutely amazing.

Overnight in the Heart of the Highlands

After a day that was literally so full of emotion and history, staying overnight somewhere quiet was perfect. So, the tour usually arranges a stay in a charming town like Inverness or somewhere nearby. We stayed at this really lovely bed and breakfast. The host was incredibly welcoming, and having a proper Scottish breakfast the next morning was just what we needed. It was also, like, a great chance to chat with the other people on the tour and share our favorite parts of the day. At the end of the day, it is that feeling of community with other fans that makes it extra special.

Day 2: Battles, Stones, and a Glimpse of the 1940s

So, Day Two has a slightly different feel to it, a little more somber and historic, but just as powerful. You really start to connect the show’s fiction with Scotland’s very real, and sometimes sad, past. You should probably be prepared for some strong feelings today.

A Morning at Culloden Battlefield

Visiting Culloden is something you really have to experience. It’s a very somber and windswept place. Our guide gave us the historical background, and then we just had time to walk across the moor ourselves. You can see the flags marking the government and Jacobite lines, and it’s almost impossible not to feel the weight of what happened there. Finding the stone for Clan Fraser, knowing what it means in the story, is a very poignant moment. It’s quiet, respectful, and frankly, a very important part of understanding Jamie’s world and Scotland’s history. It’s definitely a place for reflection.

Clava Cairns and the ‘Craigh na Dun’ Mystery

Just a short drive from Culloden are the Clava Cairns, these ancient burial cairns and standing stones that are about 4,000 years old. You can see why they likely inspired Craigh na Dun. The air here feels different, kind of ancient and mysterious. You can walk right up to the stones and even touch them. Of course, everyone in our group had to go and gently touch the large split stone, just in case, right? It didn’t buzz for me, but actually being there, in a place so old and full of secrets, was still incredibly magical. It’s a pretty unforgettable spot.

Falkland: The Original ‘Inverness’

Our final big stop was the lovely town of Falkland, which you will recognize immediately as 1940s Inverness. It’s so strange to switch from the 18th century back to Claire’s original timeline. We saw Mrs. Baird’s Guesthouse and the Bruce Fountain in the center of the square. You know, the very same fountain where Frank watches Jamie’s ghost looking up at Claire in the window. It felt like we were closing the loop on the story, in a way. The town itself is just really charming and a lovely, slightly lighter place to finish the main part of the tour before the relaxing drive back to Edinburgh.

Is This Outlander Tour Right for You?

So, at the end of the day, who is this tour really for? Well, if you love the books or the show, it’s honestly a no-brainer. You will just be in heaven. It also really suits people who have an interest in Scottish history, because the stories go so much deeper than just the filming locations. However, if your travel companion isn’t an *Outlander* fan, they still might love the beautiful scenery and history, you know. But someone who just wants a quick, check-the-box tour might find it a bit too focused. It’s really for people who want to soak in the atmosphere.

You are not just looking at a film set; you are standing in a place with its own long, deep story, and the tour helps you feel both at once. It’s really about connecting with the heart of Scotland.

My Quick Tips for the Tour

Just a few final thoughts if you decide to go, which you probably should.

• Footwear is everything: You’ll be walking on uneven ground, old cobblestones, and across a battlefield. Seriously, wear comfortable, waterproof shoes.
• Pack for four seasons: Scottish weather is famously unpredictable. Bring layers, a waterproof jacket, and maybe a hat, just in case.
• Your camera needs back-up: You will take so many pictures. Just bring an extra battery pack or memory card. You will definitely thank me later.
• Talk to your guide: Ask questions! They are a walking encyclopedia of knowledge and can make the trip so much richer.
• Re-watch a few episodes: It sort of helps to have the scenes fresh in your mind. It makes the “Aha!” moments even better.

Read our full review: [2-Day Outlander Tour Edinburgh Review Full Review and Details]
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