Scotland’s tourism industry has skyrocketed in recent years, thanks to the hit television show, Outlander. The successful production follows the story of a married combat nurse, Claire Randall who is mysteriously taken back in time to the year of 1743. The nurse is thrown into a threatening situation, where she is left fighting for her life. Thanks to the popularity of the show, reports have displayed that in recent times the number of fans travelling to Scotland has escalated rapidly. Outlander tours have become extremely popular since the making of the show and tour operators like Private Driver Scotland have capitalised on this new market, offering tailormade outlander tours.
It’s no surprise that Scotland in itself is a collection of famous movie hotspots that undeniably succeeded to capture the hearts of the Outlander production team. With vast landscapes, scenic views, rich history and authentic culture, it’s easy to see why fans can’t wait to visit the most recognisable filming locations. Currently, Scotland’s tourism industry is a vital growth sector for employment and is estimated to have produced over 200,000 jobs in recent times. Commonly dubbed the ‘Outlander Effect’, this immediate boost in tourism has seen fans flocking to popular attractions and taking part in guided tours to gain a glimpse into the world behind the scenes. Statistics have proven that since the show first aired in 2013, the growth in visitors to Scotland has risen by a whopping 67%.
Author Diana Gabaldon, who inspired the fantasy television show, was presented with an award for her contribution to the growth of Scottish tourism. Upon receiving the award, Gabaldon said that she had heard a great deal from fans, whom after reading her books and watching the television show, came to Scotland. She continued to mention that fans who have visited have all proceeded to write to her to tell her what an enjoyable experience they had visiting Scotland. Many fans of the show have also sent her souvenirs in the past, such as postcards and miniature Loch Ness monsters. Members of Outlander’s cast and crew have also commented on how thrilled they are that the show has succeeded in spreading the uniqueness of their Scottish heritage and culture with the rest of the world.
Overall, since the show first aired in 2013, the official Outlander tourism report claims that there have been over 1.5 million visitors travelling to Scotland, specifically to visit key locations from the series. Listed below are some of the most famous filming spots from the Outlander series that fans will recognise.
1 – Doune Castle
Presented in the show as the mystical Castle Leoch, Dune Castle is a stunning historical location situated near Stirling. The castle plays a leading role in the Outlander series, substituting for the fictional building. Each year, thousands of Outlander fans visit this recognisable spot to experience the breath-taking beauty of this beautiful attraction.
2 – Glencoe
Undoubtedly one of the most recognisable locations amongst fans of the show is Glencoe. No visit to Scotland is complete without experiencing this world-famous landmark, which features in the Outlander opening credits. Glencoe has also welcomed multiple filming crews for many famous movies and television shows, a genuine hotspot for Hollywood magic.
3 – Preston Mill
In the village of East Linton lies the superb, picturesque Preston Mill. The mill is one of the oldest, working, water-driven meal mills in Scotland, and is used as the backdrop for many scenes during the Jacobite Risings. Visitors can experience the history of the mill itself while learning of the real people who lived and worked there.
4 – Royal Burgh of Culross
In Fyfe, you will find a unique example of a historic Scottish town. The town of Culross is steeped in an impressive array of heritage and culture and lends its backdrop to the Jacobite and hospital scenes in season two. This rural location plays the role of the rustic, fictional village of Cranesmuir where Geillis live.
5 – Balgonie Castle
In the first season of Outlander, you will find the stunning home of the MacRannoch family, known as Eldridge Manor. Nestled in the heart of Fife, producers decided they would use the beautiful Balgonie Castle to create the atmospheric charm that this location presents. Visitors are welcomed all year round to experience what life would once have looked like in the past when this working castle was in its prime.
These are just a few of the various attractions that Outlander fans can visit when planning a trip to Scotland. However, there is no better way to achieve the full Outlander experience than taking part in a guided Outlander Tour Vacation. When you want to be swept away to Claire and Jamie’s world, the luxury tour will be the perfect option for you. Over the course of eight days, you will travel to the most popular locations from the series, while receiving first-class insights and access to interactive visitors’ centres into the mystical world of Outlander.
The best part about booking an Outlander Tour Vacation is that your accommodation and dining experiences are all pre-arranged for you. This encourages you to relax entirely, focusing on the tour and to get the full Outlander experience. You will visit magnificent 17th-century castles and have the opportunity to explore some of Scotland’s most breath-taking natural locations such as Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. Reside for the evening in some of the best hotels that offer luxurious accommodation and private dining experiences. Discover over 1000 years of ancient heritage as you get a taste of the medieval Urquhart Castle, located on the banks of the world-famous Loch Ness.
So feed your wild imaginations and start planning your visit to Scotland today, where you can get into full Outlander character and experience an exclusive, behind the scenes glimpse into the magical world of this triumphant production. This beautiful country will keep you coming back for more, and you will be amazed by all of the enchanting locations you get to uncover. There is something for the whole family to experience in Scotland, but for Outlander fans, this really will be the trip of a lifetime that you will remember forever.
