Highlights

• Small Group with no more than 12 guests
• Living like a local in luxury cottages  in beautiful rural setting
• Visiting over 20 filming locations
• An overnight stay in Inverness
• Evening Entertainment by local musicians and Gillebride
  MacMillian, the Bard from Outlander
• Restaurants and accommodation chosen with the discerning traveller
  in mind.
• No Single Supplement

Guiding Outlander fans through Scotland since 2014 • Maximum 12 guests • 5-star guest reviews •

The Quintessential Outlander Tour is our signature immersive journey through the Scotland of Outlander and Blood of My Blood. Designed exclusively for passionate fans, this intimate experience goes far beyond a sightseeing tour. Limited to just 14 guests, you'll travel with fellow Outlander enthusiasts, uncover the real history behind the stories, and experience Scotland as if you were staying with friends.

Together, we'll visit the iconic filming locations that have brought Diana Gabaldon's world to life, including Lallybroch, Castle Leoch, Helwater and the hauntingly beautiful Culloden Battlefield, with an overnight stay in Inverness. Every stop is brought vividly to life through fascinating storytelling, behind-the-scenes insights and the rich history that inspired the series.

Led by Emma and Anne, Scotland experts and devoted Outlander fans—you'll enjoy an authentic, fully hosted experience that has delighted guests from around the world since 2018. Whether you're travelling solo, with friends or as a family, you'll be welcomed into our "home from home" in the Scottish countryside, where shared meals, laughter and unforgettable moments create friendships that last long after the tour has ended.

Why book a Mary’s Meanders Tour? Unlike large coach holidays, our departures are limited to just 12 guests. We include expert guides throughout, carefully chosen accommodation, breakfasts and dinners, all transport and entry fees, allowing you to relax and immerse yourself in Scotland without worrying about the details.

Included

Accommodation in self catering cottages, full guiding services, premium transport with separate driver, overnight host at cottages, breakfast items provided based on guests preferences and dinners, entry fees and musical entertainment.

Exclusions

Flights, pre and post tour accommodation, lunches, drinks, and gratuities. 

Review Time!

Outstanding Outlander Experience

May 2026

The Outlander 6 Day Tour was excellent. Anne and Emma were exceptional. They were extremely knowledgeable in all things Outlander and Scotland. We were taken to so many special Outlander filming locations and many Scottish hidden gems as we travelled through Scotland. Anne and Emma worked tirelessly to make this experience flawless and memorable. They were with us throughout our entire journey together. Anne and Emma thank you for showcasing your beautiful country, you helped make this dream come true. Do not hesitate to contact Mary Meanders to make your Outlander experience a reality.

Day One – Welcome to the Scotland of Jamie and Claire

Your journey begins in the heart of Edinburgh, where centuries of history, passion, rebellion and romance have shaped the very streets that inspired the world of Outlander. We will join Sam from Edinburgh Tour Guides for a fascinating Outlander walking tour along the Royal Mile, where you'll uncover the stories behind the Jacobite era before enjoying lunch together and getting to know your fellow travellers.

Our adventure continues with a visit to the much-loved Lallybroch (Midhope Castle), you will hear the real history behind the estate and discover how this much-loved location became one of the emotional centres of the series. Next is the imposing Blackness Castle, instantly recognisable to fans as Fort William.

Before settling into your beautiful countryside cottages, we'll make a quick stop for any personal essentials. Then it's time to relax, unwind and enjoy our Welcome Evening. Over a delicious buffet dinner, you'll have lots of time to chat with your fellow Outlander fans, share your favourite moments from the series and begin friendships that often continue long after the tour has ended.

Day Two – Walking in Claire's Footsteps

Today we'll discover some of the series' most memorable locations, including the beautiful Hunterston House, known to fans as the home of Reverend Wakefield.

In Glasgow, you'll explore the magnificent Cathedral (L'Hopital des Anges) and Glasgow University which was transformed into Harvard University for Outlander: Blood of My Blood, and wander the very streets where Julia and Henry first meet.

As evening falls, we'll gather for a wonderful Scottish dining experience, celebrating Scotland's traditions, hospitality and wonderful local flavours.

Day Three – Castles, Kings and Legends

Stand within the walls of the iconic Doune Castle, forever known to Outlander fans as Castle Leoch, where Jamie and Claire's story truly began. You will have seen it recently in Blood of my Blood also.

We'll continue to the breathtaking Drummond Castle Gardens, transformed into the magnificent Palace of Versailles, before enjoying lunch surrounded by Scotland's spectacular scenery.

Our afternoon takes us to the atmospheric Tibbermore Church, where history and folklore intertwine through the story of Scotland's infamous witch trials.

We'll enjoy dinner in a local's favourite Benny T's - a family owned Fish & Chips restaurant before returning to the cottages to relax.

Day Four – The Scotland Behind the Story

Today brings some of the most picturesque filming locations in the series.

We'll stroll through the charming village of Falkland, forever remembered as 1940s Inverness, before visiting Balvaird Castle (Castle Leathers) in Blood of my Blood.

In the beautifully preserved village of Culross, you'll wander the streets of Cranesmuir before continuing to magnificent Hopetoun House, one of Outlander's most versatile filming locations, appearing as the Duke of Sandringham's home, scenes in France, Helwater and Elsmere.

Our final evening in the cottages is one to remember. We'll gather for a delicious home-cooked meal before enjoying a very special evening of traditional Scottish entertainment, with music and storytelling creating memories.

Day Five – Into the Highlands

This morning we bid farewell to our cottages and journey north into the breathtaking Scottish Highlands.

Along the way we'll stop to meet Scotland's much-loved Highland cows before travelling through the spectacular landscape of Glencoe, one of Scotland's most iconic and awe-inspiring glens. Take time to breathe in the fresh Highland air, admire the dramatic mountain scenery and enjoy lunch surrounded by unforgettable views.

Later we'll arrive in Inverness, Scotland's Highland capital and will enjoy our farewell dinner in a traditional Scottish pub, complete with live music, laughter and a final evening celebrating the friendships made during the week.

Day Six – Where History Lives Forever

Our final day is both moving and unforgettable.

We'll visit Culloden Battlefield, where the Jacobite Rising came to its conclusion and where the events that shaped Jamie Fraser's world become vividly real.

We'll then explore the ancient standing stones of Clava Cairns, a place that has captured the imagination of Outlander fans from around the world, before stepping back in time at the Highland Folk Museum, where you'll recognise the township featured in the famous Rent episode.

As we return to Edinburgh—you'll leave not only with incredible photographs, but with a deeper connection to Scotland, unforgettable memories and friends who share your love of Outlander. 

Notes - You will be dropped off in Edinburgh where our journey began - Apex Grassmarket Hotel or you can choose to remain in Inverness. We can help with hotel/tour suggestions.

Review Time!

Quintessential Outlander Tour

May 2026 • Solo

As a fan of both books and series I can say that this was such a treat to finally spend time in Scotland immersed in the sites, landscapes and culture that I had imagined from the books. Emma and Anne were wonderful in sharing their Outlander knowledge as well as Scottish history. Every day was full of sites to visit but never felt like it was too rushed. I really appreciated not only the outlander sites but all the other little tidbits shared along the way, as well as nice little places to eat and feel like a local.
I loved staying in the cottages as it felt more local than just being in a hotel in a city. The sheep and coos were an added bonus.
If you have dreamed of being here just do it!

Your journey will be hosted by Anne and Emma, passionate Outlander fans, award-winning guides and true Scotland enthusiasts. With years of experience sharing the magic of Scotland with visitors from around the world, they bring the filming locations to life with fascinating stories, historical insight and the behind-the-scenes details that make every visit memorable.

Since the very beginning of the series, Anne and Emma have been welcoming Outlander fans to Scotland through their location tours. They were also honoured to have the opportunity to personally guide Outlander author Diana Gabaldon on one of their tours in March 2019—an unforgettable moment in their journey as Scotland's trusted Outlander specialists.

Throughout your adventure, you'll travel in comfort and safety with your friendly, professional driver aboard a premium minibus, allowing you to relax and fully immerse yourself in the scenery, stories and experiences along the way.

Travelling solo? You’ll be in wonderful company. Many of our guests join us on their own, and we make sure nobody feels like a stranger. Before you arrive in Scotland, you'll be welcomed into a private online group where you can meet your fellow travellers, start sharing your excitement and begin making connections before the tour even begins.

This tour is designed primarily around the iconic Outlander filming locations and the stories behind them. If you would like to explore more of Scotland's capital, we recommend arriving a few days early to enjoy Edinburgh's many treasures, including Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile and other historic landmarks, or perhaps taking time to discover Glasgow.

For your convenience, we recommend staying at The Apex Grassmarket Hotel on the night before the tour begins, as this is our departure point for the start of your unforgettable Outlander adventure.

Why guests return

⭐ Running since 2014

⭐ 100% five-star reviews

⭐ Many repeat travellers

⭐ Thousands of miles explored together

During the 3-day Outlander tour, you will be immersed in historical tales of intrigue, romance, and adventure whilst remembering your favourite scenes from Outlander.

Great for Outlander fans and Scottish Castle lovers. 

Highlights

• Follow in the footsteps of Claire and Jamie Fraser in the wild and beautiful heartland of Scotland
• Visit Midhope, which is fictional Lallybroch, Jamie Fraser's family home
• Enjoy an unforgettable visit to Doune Castle, which plays a leading role as fictional Castle Leoch. Imagine the grand banquets that would have been held here
• Discover Blackness Castle, a 15th-century fortress that was the setting for the Fort William headquarters of Black Jack Randall
• Explore historic Culross, Scotland’s stunning 17th-century royal burgh, which is Cranesmuir in the Outlander TV series
• Revel in the grandeur of Hopetoun House, the Duke of Sandringham's residence in Season 1, as well as providing the backdrop for Parisian streets, the spare room in Jamie and Claire's Paris apartment, and the Hawkins Estate in Season 2 and Ellesmere and the stables at Helwater  during Season 3
• Hear the sounds of Preston Mill in action, one of the oldest, working mills in Scotland
• Step back in time and stand in Claire and Geillis's fictional footsteps in the pulpit of Tibbermore Church, the site of the infamous witch trials – if you dare!

Itinerary

The 3-day Outlander Tour departs promptly each day from Linlithgow Train Station, a short 20 train journey from Edinburgh Waverley and Edinburgh Haymarket train stations.  Please see the map for the exact location and direction assistance at the bottom of this page.

Day 1:

Meet: Linlithgow Train Station, 9.00 am (Directions below)

• Castle Leoch (Doune Castle)
• Blackness Castle (Fort William)
• Midhope (Lallybroch)
• Culross (Cranesmuir)
• Linlithgow Palace (Wentworth Prison)

Drop-off: Linlithgow Train Station, 5 pm approx

Day 2:

Meet: Linlithgow Train Station, 9.00 am

• Drummond Castle Gardens (Palace of Versailles)
• Tibbermore Church (Witch Trials)
• Tullibardine Chapel (Where Rupert loses his eye)
• Falkland (Inverness)
• Dysart (Le Harve)

Drop-off: Linlithgow Train Station, 5 pm approx

Day 3:

Meet: Linlithgow Train Station, 9.00 am

• Hopetoun House (Duke of Sandringham & French scenes S2)
• Craigmillar Castle (Ardsmuir Prison)
• Preston Mill (Lallybroch Mill)

Drop-off: Linlithgow Train Station, 5 pm approx

• Each day on the 3-day tour lasts around  8 hours. The day to day itinerary may change due to availability of locations.
• Times are dependent on local traffic conditions.
• Mary’s Meanders cannot be held responsible for any site closures, which sometimes happen at short notice. Suitable alternatives will be offered.
• Please note that tour prices do not include admission fees to any paid sites, hotels, meals or tips.
• Many of the locations on this tour have uneven terrain or cobblestones and are not suitable for those with mobility restrictions.

For more than 3 guests, please contact us.

Duration:
3 days, 8 hours per day

Meeting Point:
Linlithgow Train Station, Station Road, Linlithgow, (Map here) – 20 mins by train from Edinburgh, 30 mins by train from Glasgow (How to book a train ticket)

Tour Departs:
 9:00 hrs Linlithgow Train Station, Station Road, Linlithgow

Tour Returns:
By 17:00 hours Linlithgow Train Station, Station Road, Linlithgow

What to bring

• Your tour confirmation email
• Comfortable footwear, such as walking boots, trainers and sneakers
• Cash, credit card, or Historic Scotland Explorer Pass for entrance fees
  
  

* An Historic Scotland Explorer Pass is great value if you are planning to travel in Scotland after your tour. As well as giving you access to these properties, you can also visit any of their 70 properties, including Edinburgh and Stirling Castles, for no additional cost. More details here. 

The prices listed here are for guidance only and can change at any time.

Cancellation Policy

48 hours or more before start: 100% refunds. After that time: no refunds. (Terms and Conditions)

 Tour Itinerary

Your hosts will be Anne and Emma, dedicated Outlander fans, award-winning guides with lots of histories and tales to share. Anne and Emma have been offering location tours since the series first aired and had the pleasure of taking Outlander author, Diana Gabaldon, on their tour in March 2019.

You will be safely transported around by their friendly driver in a premium minibus.

This will be an ideal trip for solo travellers as Mary's Meanders will introduce you to your fellow guests in your own online private group before travelling.

This tour is primarily about the filming locations. We recommend you arrive a couple of days early if you want to visit Edinburgh sites such as Edinburgh Castle or take a trip to Glasgow.

We recommend you stay at The Apex Grassmarket Hotel the evening before the tour starts as we pick up from there.

Highlights -

• 5 days fully escorted small group tours to filming locations

• Day trip to Culloden and Clava Cairns.

• Dedicated driver and separate Outlander fan guide.

• Visiting at least 20 filming locations

• Evening meals including a Scottish themed dinner & entertainment show

• Evening entertainment with local musicians and Gillebride MacMillian, the Bard from Outlander  

Outline Tour Itinerary

Day 1 

Pick up from outside Apex Grassmarket Hotel

Walking Outlander tour of the Royal Mile

Hopetoun House (Duke of Sandringham home, Helwater, Ellsmere and more)

Midhope Castle (Lallybroch)

Linlithgow Palace (Wentworth prison)

­Fun evening mixer to settle in and get to know each other at cottages -Evening meal at cottages

Day 2

Highland Folk Museum

­Culloden

­Clava Cairns

Dinner in Dunkeld - Victorian town in Perthshire

Day 3

Falkland (Inverness)

Surprise stop!

­Culross (Cranesmuir & Bonnie Prince Charlie War cabinet)

­Blackness Castle (Fort William)

­Scottish Evening Meal Torphichen

Day 4

Doune Castle (Castle Leoch)

­Tibbermore Church (Witch Trials)

­Drummond Castle Gardens (Palace of Versailles

­Tullibardine Chapel (Where Rupert loses his eye)

­Meal in Cottage with entertainment – probably Gillebride MacMillan, Gwyllyn the Bard from Outlander and award-winning Gaelic singer.

Day 5

Craigmillar Castle (Ardsmuir prison)

Rosslyn Chapel

Roslin Glen (if mobility allows)

Drop off in Edinburgh

*Total price includes accommodation & passes.  

Join us for an Unforgettable Week of Creativity, Culture, and Cuisine!

This February from Monday 23rd to Friday 27th, we are inviting you to snuggle in, or indeed, enjoy the outdoors, whatever the weather merits, with our new 5-day Scottish experience.

Escape to the hills outside of The Royal Burgh of Linlithgow for a week of immersive crafting and culinary experiences. Surrounded by beautiful scenery, you’ll dive into Scotland’s rich traditions, learning from master artisans and chefs, while connecting with fellow enthusiasts in an inspiring and serene environment.

This is a very relaxed tour, as much about the experiences, as about the sites. Slow tourism, at its best.

Why join us?

**Authentic Experience:** Immerse yourself in Scotland’s rich cultural heritage with activities that are both educational and enjoyable.

**Expert Guidance:** Our team of skilled artisans and chefs ensure you receive the highest level of instruction and insight into
Scottish traditions.

 **Perfect for All Levels:** Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned crafter or foodie, our tour is designed to be accessible and enjoyable
for everyone.

Limited availability – don’t miss out!

Monday - pick up point Edinburgh, Grassmarket.

We recommend you come in a couple of days before to enjoy some time in the City. We will start the week off with a visit to the Islander store where you will make your own Harris Tweed Handbag. The hard question will be is it for you or will you gift it to someone??

After “working” in the morning, it will be time for some relaxation and delicious cakes! We will visit the Royal Yacht Britannia and enjoy a Cream Tea in the very spot where the Royal Family would have played cards and relaxed.

On then to our cottages in the hills, just outside Linlithgow, which will be our base for the week. We will settle in, enjoy a home cooked meal and get to know each other more as we “Coorie In” with a warm log fire.

Tuesday – no need to rush out the door this morning as our activity today is coming to you.

After breakfast we will enjoy a kilt making demonstration and workshop, where  you will make your own personalised souvenir to take
home. We will have lunch in the cottages before we  making the short journey to our local town Royal & Ancient Burgh of Linlithgow where you will have some free time. You might choose to do some shopping, relax in a café or perhaps take a walk around
Linlithgow Loch to fully embrace the fresh Scottish air.

Our next activity is a lot of fun and tastes good too! We will visit a local independent Whisky and Rum distillery for a tasting experience
that is just a little bit different to your typical distillery.  As they say themselves, “ every sip is a toast to eccentricity!” Fun memories will be made today that’s for sure!

Dinner tonight is in a family owned, cosy pub where you will have the chance to taste some of Scotland’s favourite traditional dishes –
will it be today that you try haggis for the first time???

We will finish off the day with a visit to see The Kelpies it up at night. Then its back home to relax on the sofa, or maybe a dip in the hot tub.

Wednesday – after a leisurely breakfast the “Coorie In’ers” will board the bus for a trip to The Kingdom of Fife. St Andrews is our first stop, (remember we need to indulge in that free & fresh Scottish air every day!), for the golfers amongst the group, this can be an emotional stop as they cast their eyes on the iconic Swilcan Bridge or maybe it will be seeing the café where William and Kate supposedly first met that will bring tears to your eyes. Joking aside, a visit to St Andrews is always a guest favourite, there is so much history here alongside some great shops and cafes to explore before our next activity.

Now we are going to experience a real treat for the senses -  we are excited to bring you to a workshop with an award winning Candle Making artisan in one of Fife’s coastal villages. Here, we will have the chance to make a Scottish scented candle that you will be able to bring home at the end of the session. Additionally we will enjoy freshly made scones with a little glass of prosecco to raise a toast to our new found skills!
After the session today, you will receive access to an online candle making course so maybe this will be start of new hobby or even a career.

Our last stop today has to be to the local award winning Fish and Chips restaurant, one of the joys of visiting Scotland at this time of
year is that we really do comfort food well – there’s nothing better than a plate of freshly caught fish and hot chips to warm your cockles up as they say!

Then its home for cocktails and some well-deserved Coorie In time.

Thursday- a relaxing morning start before we make our way to explore Stirling Castle, taking in the stunning vistas from the battlements. 

Lunch at your leisure in the Stirling Castle café.

Back on the bus for a short trip to the pretty town of Callander, which is known to many as the Gateway to the Highlands. The mountain Ben Ledi overlooks the town and provides a gorgeous backdrop for photographers/walkers who visit.

One of our favourite bakeries is in Callander but don’t fill up on too many cakes and pastries as we have a real treat for our final night.

We are delighted to have a wonderful and incredibly creative chef join us at the cottages for Scottish themed dinner experience. This
will be an immersive experience, with lots of opportunities to get involved, ask questions and of course enjoy delicious food and cocktails!

Friday  - sadly we must check out today but we will cheer ourselves up with a full Scottish breakfast at one of our favourite local eateries. We will finish off the week with a visit to our namesake’s birthplace, Linlithgow Palace where Mary Queen of Scots was born in December 1542.  

There will be one last surprise stop before you will be dropped back to your hotel at 3pm approx. after truly experiencing a taste of
authentic Scottish Hospitality, Heritage and Culture combined with a big helping of rest and relaxation!

THIS TOUR IS BEING DELIVERED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH CAPERCAILLIE ESCAPES. 

CAPERCAILLIE ESCAPES CAN ASSIST YOU WITH PRE & POST TOUR SERVICES INCLUDING ACCOMMODATION, TRANSPORT & ANY OTHER ACTIVITIES.

Book your spot now and give yourself the gift of relaxation and creativity.

Includes

Accommodation- 4 nights self-catering cottages

Transportation

Dedicated guide and on site hosts.

All meals (except lunch on Thursday) & evening cocktails

Artisan Workshops & materials needed

Scottish Dining Experience

Excludes

Flights

Hotel accommodation before and after the tour

Gratuities