15 Amazing Outlander Series Filming Locations in Scotland (+ Map)
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Now that Outlander is heading into its final season (cue the tears 😭), we need every excuse to relive the magic of the show, right? There’s truly no better way to do that than by visiting Outlander’s filming locations in Scotland. And there are plenty of them!
So, are you a die-hard Outlander fan dreaming of walking in the footsteps of Claire and Jamie?
If so, you've landed in the right place!
This blog post is your ultimate guide to the Outlander series filming locations scattered across Scotland. From ancient castles to quaint Scottish villages, each spot is steeped in history and magic, bringing your favorite scenes to life.
Can I tell you a secret? Outlander is the entire reason I visited Scotland for the very first time back in 2016! Jamie and Claire's love story set against the epic backdrop of the highlands inspired my own love story with Scotland itself. I know, I know - cheesy but true.
In this guide, we’re diving into 15 must-visit Outlander filming locations, providing you with some historical and Outlander-specific facts, practical tips for visiting, and insider recommendations. By the end, you'll be ready to plan an unforgettable trip that combines your love for the series with Scotland's breathtaking beauty.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
15 Must-Visit Outlander Series Filming Locations in Scotland
Doune Castle
Blackness Castle
Midhope Castle
Falkland, Fife
Royal Burgh of Culross
Hopetoun House
Drummond Castle Gardens
Linlithgow Palace
Glencoe
Highland Folk Museum
Kinloch Rannoch Moor
Bakehouse Close & Tweeddale Court
Culloden Moor + Battlefield
The Devil's Pulpit
Craigmillar Castle
Map of Outlander Series Filming Locations
Best Outlander Tours in Scotland
Other Outlander Locations in Scotland
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Short on time? Book this one day Outlander guided tour to check off multiple Outlander filming locations in a day! This 9 hour tour includes visiting the top locations, admission tickets and round-trip transport from Edinburgh.
15 Must-Visit Outlander Filming Locations in Scotland
1. Doune Castle
Doune Castle, located near Stirling, is a fan favorite and a must-visit for any Outlander lover. This medieval stronghold served as Castle Leoch, the home of Clan MacKenzie in the series. The castle's towering walls, grand kitchen and ancient halls will transport you straight into the 18th century.
Explore the courtyard, and imagine the bustling life of the castle during Jamie's time. The exterior of this castle was used greatly in the show, while most interior shots were created in a studio (this is a ruined castle, so it's understandable!). Don't miss the audio tour narrated by both Sam Heughan of Outlander, which adds an extra layer of authenticity to your visit.
Entry to the castle is £10 per adult, and booking online in advance is highly recommended.
2. Blackness Castle
Known as "The Ship That Never Sailed" due to its ship-like shape, Blackness Castle stands on the south shore of the Firth of Forth. In Outlander, it portrayed Fort William, the stronghold of the notorious Black Jack Randall.
Climb the towers and wander along the castle's open-air curtain wall, looking down into the courtyard where Jamie was flogged by Jack Randall, and you'll feel the intense atmosphere of the show. The views from the castle over the Firth of Forth are spectacular, offering beautiful (and much less somber) photo-ops.
Entry to the castle is £7.50 per adult, and booking online in advance is highly recommended.
3. Midhope Castle
Midhope Castle, also known as Lallybroch, is an absolutely essential stop for Outlander fans. This 15th-century tower house served as Jamie Fraser's family home, a place of refuge and love throughout the series.
While the interior is not open to the public, the exterior alone is worth the trip. Stand in the courtyard where Jamie and Claire shared many heartfelt moments, and you'll be transported back to their world.
Entry to the grounds is £7 per adult when purchased online, or right at the castle's parking lot.
>> Read the full guide: How to Visit Midhope Castle in Scotland: Outlander Lallybroch Location
4. Falkland, Fife
Step into the quaint village of Falkland, which served as 1940s Inverness in the series. With its cobbled streets and charming architecture, Falkland feels like a step back in time.
Visit the Bruce Fountain, where Claire first sees the ghost of Jamie. Wander through the village square, dotted with shops and cafes, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. You can even stay at The Covenanter Hotel, which served as the exterior for Mrs Baird’s B&B in the first episode of Season 1 (interior shots were filmed in Glasgow).
>> Book your stay at Mrs Baird's B&B (The Covenanter Hotel)
Also, don't miss Falkland Palace, a Renaissance gem with beautiful gardens. It's a great place to explore and enjoy a picnic surrounded by heaps of Scottish history - this was once a favorite place of Mary, Queen of Scots.
5. Royal Burgh of Culross
The picturesque village of Culross, with its whitewashed cottages and cobbled streets, is instantly recognizable as Cranesmuir, the home of Geillis Duncan. The village's super well-preserved historic charm (dating back to the 16th century!) makes it a magical place to visit.
Stroll through Mercat Cross, where multiple scenes were filmed, and visit Culross Palace, a beautifully restored 17th-century building with stunning gardens. The palace's gardens were actually used as the herb gardens of Cattle Leoch, where Claire first meets Geillis in Season 1.
6. Hopetoun House
Hopetoun House, a magnificent "country house" near Edinburgh (more like a palace, if you ask me!), was featured in several Outlander scenes - most notably the Duke of Sandringham's opulent residence. Explore the elegant State Rooms, lush gardens and scenic grounds. Keep an eye out for familiar locations like the Red Drawing Room and of course the grand exterior.
The estate often hosts Outlander-themed events and tours, so check their schedule for a fully immersive experience.
Entry (for adults) is £13.50 for access to the house & grounds, or £6.50 for just the grounds.
7. Drummond Castle Gardens
Would you believe that the Versailles scenes Outlander were filmed right in Scotland? Drummond Castle Gardens, located in Perthshire near Crieff, served as the gardens of the Palace of Versailles throughout Season 2.
The meticulously manicured lawns and vibrant flowerbeds create that fairytale-like atmosphere that easily passes for gardens fit for French royalty. Wander through the terraces, sculptures, and gorgeous arrays of flowers and shrubbery for a peaceful retreat.
Entry to the castle's gardens is £10 per adult, and booking online in advance is recommended. (Note that the castle itself is not open to the public, tickets are only available for visiting the grounds and gardens)
8. Linlithgow Palace
Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots, became Wentworth Prison in multiple Outlander scenes. The lower floor of Linlithgow Palace became the prison cells at Wentworth - its towering walls and eerie corridors set the stage for some of the series' most intense moments in Season 1.
Climb the winding staircases to the top of the towers for breathtaking views of Linlithgow Loch and the surrounding area. The palace's Great Hall and courtyard are also must-see highlights.
Entry to the castle is £10 per adult, and just like the other historic castles in this guide, booking online in advance is highly recommended.
9. Glencoe
The dramatic landscapes of Glencoe set the scene for part of the opening credits of Outlander. This iconic valley, with its towering mountains and deep glens, embodies the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
Hike the trails that wind through the glen, and you'll find yourself surrounded by the same breathtaking Scottish Highland vistas that might've captivated Claire and Jamie. The Three Sisters viewpoint and the view of the “wee white hut” (Lagangarbh Hut) are both particularly breathtaking, don’t miss them!
Consider staying at a local inn (The Clachaig Inn is a personal favorite) to fully immerse yourself in the area.
>> Read the full guide: How to Spend 2 Days in Glencoe, Scotland
10. Highland Folk Museum
The Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore offers a glimpse into 18th-century Highland life, making it a perfect Outlander destination. The museum's authentic buildings and artifacts bring history to life in the form of an entire village, which was used in the Season 1 episode "Rent" as the MacKenzie Village. You know the one - where Dougal gives his Jacobite speech, and Claire participates in a traditional Scottish Wool Waulking.
Explore the blackhouses, workshops &events, and village setting that beautifully recreates the atmosphere of the Jacobite era. This museum is free to enter and explore, but they do welcome donations!
11. Kinloch Rannoch Moor
Kinloch Rannoch Moor, with its rugged and remote beauty, was the filming location for Craigh na Dun, the mystical stones that transport Claire through time. While the stones themselves are fictional, the scenery is very real and enchanting. Pack a picnic and enjoy the peace and quiet of the area, soaking in the otherworldly atmosphere.
Take a scenic drive through the moor, and then make the short walk up to the exact location where Outlander filmed its Craigh na Dun scenes. Fun fact: the stones in the show were man-made and placed in Kinloch Rannoch Moor, but they were directly inspired and molded from the Callanish Standing Stones on the Isle of Lewis.
>> Read this Craigh na Dun guide on the blog, and scroll down to section #3 for information on how to find and visit the exact filming location in Kinloch Rannoch Moor.
12. Bakehouse Close & Tweeddale Court
Located in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town, Bakehouse Close and Tweeddale Court served as the backdrop for some of the show's iconic scenes when Claire and Jamie finally reunite! These narrow, cobbled alleys capture the essence of 18th-century Edinburgh.
Wander through Bakehouse Close, and you'll find the spot where Jamie's print shop was located. Tweeddale Court was used for some of the bustling Edinburgh street scenes during this time in the series.
Combine this visit with a tour of the Royal Mile and other historic sites in Edinburgh for a full day of exploring.
>> Read the full guide: How to Spend 2 Days in Edinburgh: The Best Weekend Itinerary
13. Culloden Moor & Battlefield
Culloden Moor, near Inverness, is a solemn and significant site in Scottish history. It was here that the Jacobite rising of 1745 came to a tragic end. Walk the battlefield, and you'll feel the weight of history. The visitor center offers detailed exhibits and a powerful 360 degree immersive film that brings the events of the battle to life.
Pay your respects at the clan stones, a touching tribute to those who fought and fell on this hallowed ground.
The filming location for the battle scenes in the show was actually at Cumbernauld Glen, a woodland area located between Glasgow and Falkirk. Outlander only filmed at the real Culloden Battlefield for the Season 2 finale, when Claire visits the site of the Clan Fraser grave marker (in 1960s Scotland).
Entry to the visitors center exhibits and the battlefield is £16 for adults. Click here for more ticket information and hours.
14. The Devil's Pulpit
The Devil's Pulpit (Finnich Glen), is a hidden gem near Loch Lomond. This deep, narrow gorge with its moss-covered walls and blood-red water looks straight out of a fantasy novel, and was used as the fictional "St Ninian's Spring" or "Liar's Spring."
In Outlander Season 1 Episode 6, Dougal has Claire drink from the spring to prove she isn’t lying about being an English spy, proclaiming that if she had been lying, “it will burn your gizzard out.”
Descend the worn steps into the glen, and you'll be greeted with a vibrant and mystical landscape. Wear sturdy shoes and take extra caution when walking in, as the path is very steep and narrow. Do not attempt this trek during or right after a storm - the steps down are extremely dangerous when slippery.
15. Craigmillar Castle
Nestled just a stone's throw from Edinburgh's city center (less than a 10 minute drive, to be exact), Craigmillar Castle served as the backdrop of Ardsmuir Prison during Jamie's incarceration in Season 3. Both the exterior and interior of this castle were used for filming, which is quite unique!
Not only is this castle a great Outlander filming location to visit, but is also has a ton of interesting history! Craigmillar is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Scotland, and was even a refuge to Mary Queen of Scots in the 1560s.
Entry to the castle is £7.50 for adults, and tickets can be booked online in advance.
PRO TIP: Multiple locations on this list are run by Historic Environment Scotland, like Wentworth Prison (Linlithgow Palace), Castle Leoch (Doune Castle), Ardsmuir Prison (Craigmillar Castle), and Fort William (Blackness Castle).
Purchase an Explorer Pass while you’re traveling in Scotland to gain access to these sites (plus 50+ other historic sites) and avoid paying separately during each site visit.
Explorer Passes are £44 for adults, and are valid for 14 consecutive days. That means you can visit as many of these sites as you want within 14 days with "free" entry!
Map of Outlander Series Filming Locations in Scotland
To help you plan your adventure, I've created a detailed map of all the Outlander filming locations mentioned in this guide. Use it to map out your journey and ensure you don't miss any of the best spots!
Best Outlander Tours in Scotland
Luckily for Outlander fans, several companies in Scotland offer specialized Outlander-themed tours! These tours can range from day trips to multi-day excursions.
Here are the top rated Outlander tours to book:
Other Outlander Locations in Scotland
If you're looking to explore even more Outlander sites while in Scotland (yes, please!), consider adding these filming locations and related locations to your itinerary:
Preston Mill in East Lothian served as the backdrop for various scenes in the Outlander series, including the location where Jamie hides from the Redcoats.
Aberdour Castle stood in for the monastery where Jamie recuperates after he was freed from Wentworth Prison and Black Jack Randall in Season 1.
Glasgow Cathedral's crypt was used to depict L'Hôpital des Anges in Paris, where Claire volunteers as a nurse in Season 2.
The Georgian Kitchen at Callendar House was used for the kitchen scenes at the home of the Duke of Sandringham in Season 2, including where he met his gruesome end.
Culloden House Hotel, near Inverness, was a key location for the lead-up to the Battle of Culloden, representing the Jacobite headquarters and where the real Bonnie Prince Charlie stayed during that period. You can book a stay at the Culloden House Hotel for an incredible experience - I highly recommend if you’re visiting Inverness.
Calanais Standing Stones (Callanish Stones) on the Isle of Lewis directly inspired the fictional Craigh na Dun, the mystical stone circle where Claire's time-traveling journey begins.
Glencorse Old Kirk, a 17th century chapel in the Pentland Hills just 20 minutes from Edinburgh, was the setting for Claire and Jamie's wedding ceremony in Season 1. Fun fact: this private venue can be booked for real weddings!
Dysart Harbour in Fife (on the east coast of Scotland) was transformed into the French port of Le Havre, where Jamie and Claire arrive in Season 2.
Culloden House Hotel near Inverness
Calanais Standing Stones on the Isle of Lewis
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best time to visit Outlander filming locations in Scotland?
A: The best time to visit is typically during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is milder and the landscapes are in full bloom. However, my personal favorite time to visit Scotland is during the fall season (October and November), when the summer crowds are gone and the landscapes of the highlands are awash with foliage hues.
Q: Can I visit all the filming locations in one trip?
A: It's definitely possible to visit many locations in a single trip, but in that case, it will be best to plan a longer stay to fully appreciate each site without feeling rushed. Some of the sites mentioned will require a long drive or even a ferry to reach.
Q: Where is Jamie Fraser's home in Scotland?
A: Jamie Fraser’s beloved home, Lallybroch, is located in the picturesque countryside of the Scottish Highlands in the books and tv series. In real life, "Lallybroch" is actually Midhope Castle, which is located just a short 30 minute drive from Edinburgh.
Q: Is there a real Lallybroch in Scotland?
A: While Lallybroch is a fictional location, the inspiration for it comes from real locations throughout Scotland, and fans can visit the castle used for filming (Midhope Castle)!
>> Read the full guide: How to Visit Midhope Castle in Scotland: Outlander Lallybroch Location
Q: Do the stones in Outlander really exist?
A: Technically, no. However, the mystical stones featured in Outlander were based on the very real Calanais Standing Stones on the Isle of Lewis. Alternatively, you can visit Kinloch Rannoch Moor, which is the filming site for Craigh na Dun in the show (replica stones were placed in this location just for filming).
>> Read the full guide: How to Visit Craigh na Dun from Outlander
Q: Is any of Outlander historically accurate?
A: Outlander weaves together historical fact and fiction, with many events and characters grounded in real history, like the Jacobite Rising of 1745 in Scotland.
Q: Where are the American scenes in Outlander filmed?
A: Many of the American scenes were actually filmed in various locations across Scotland, capturing the essence of North Carolina and "Fraser's Ridge" through carefully selected backdrops. As someone who lived in North Carolina for multiple years, they honestly fooled me! Job well done.
Final Thoughts
Exploring the Outlander filming locations in Scotland is a dream come true for fans of the series, myself included! Each site offers a unique and beautiful glimpse into the world of Claire and Jamie, while showcasing the natural beauty and rich history of Scotland.
Whether you're planning a dedicated Outlander-inspired trip, or you're incorporating these sites into a larger Scottish adventure, I hope you find this guide useful in visiting some of the very best and most memorable Outlander series filming locations in bonnie Scotland!
More Scotland travel guides:
Scottish Highlands:
How to Visit Midhope Castle in Scotland: Outlander Lallybroch Location
Ultimate Scotland Bucket List: 17 Places You Need to Visit
13 of the Best Hidden Gems in Scotland
How to Spend One Day on the Isle of Kerrera
How to Spend Two Days in Glencoe, Scotland
How to Visit the Kilchurn Castle Panorama Viewpoint on Loch Awe
Top 20 Places to Stay on the Isle of Skye (Hotels, B&Bs, Cabins)
How to visit Craigh na Dun from Outlander
10 Incredible Photography Locations on the Isle of Skye
Edinburgh:
The Perfect 2 Day Itinerary for Edinburgh, Scotland
The Best Hotels in Edinburgh with Views of Edinburgh Castle
15 Best Things to Do in Edinburgh, Scotland for First Time Visitors
7 Best Coffee Shops in Edinburgh
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15 Amazing Outlander Series Filming Locations to Visit in Scotland
