Outlander

Follow in their footsteps and relive Outlander for yourself.

Enter the world of Outlander, a thrilling romantic adventure that transcends history. Claire Randall, a British Army nurse, is on honeymoon with her new husband in Scotland when she is mysteriously thrown some 200 years to the Jacobite uprising in 1743. There she meets handsome Highland warrior Jamie Fraser, and finds herself torn between her old life in the present – and her new life in the past. 

Many iconic scenes from this cult TV series were filmed in the Edinburgh area, so why not take a day trip and follow in the footsteps of our time travelling heroes?

Outlander film locations in and near Edinburgh

Craigmillar Castle

Craigmillar Castle, an easy journey form Edinburgh’s city centre is an ancient castle built around a tower house dating back to the 1300s. Home of Mary Queen of Scots who stayed there in 1566, it then briefly became her prison after her arrest in 1567. Outlander season 3 sees it play the role of Ardmuir Prison – plan your trip to explore the past on Craigmillar Castle’s website.

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The Signet Library

One of Edinburgh’s finest examples of lavish Georgian Architecture, the Signet Library located in the city’s elegant New Town plays home to scenes in Outlander’s third season. Visit the Colonnades tea salon for afternoon tea to enjoy the atmosphere, or, given that the library is also a conference and events venue, perhaps start planning your wedding there. Find your way to the Signet Library by visiting their website.

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Summerhall

Former veterinary school Summerhall plays a part in Outlander’s third season. Today the venue is a popular arts and performance venue, while still recognisably a former hospital. Find out more about Summerhall and the events they host on their website.

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Bakehouse Close & Tweeddale Court

Part of Edinburgh’s Old Town, Bakehouse Close is – in the words of Edinburgh World Heritage – one of the best-preserved examples of old Edinburgh. The archway dates back to 1570 and the close is featured along with parts of the Royal Mile including nearby Tweeddale Court in Outlander Season 3. While you’re there, step round the corner and learn more about Edinburgh at the Museum of Edinburgh.

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Hopetoun House

This beautiful stately home near South Queensferry is the setting for the residence of the Duke of Sandringham in series one. Interior scenes were filmed in the Red Drawing Room, while the Sea Trail and West Lawn to the rear of the house was the location for the duel between the Duke and the head of the McDonald clan. The rear steps of the house serves as the location for a thrilling sword fight in season one, while the courtyard behind the Stables Tearoom features regularly as a Parisian street location in series two. 

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Midhope Castle 

Located on the wider Hopetoun Estate is Midhope Castle, which is the external location for fictional Lallybroch – the Fraser family home. Midhope Castle dates back to the 15th Century and although the exterior is relatively intact, the castle is derelict inside. Plan your trip on the Hopetoun House website.  

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Preston Mill  

Preston Mill in the village of East Linton (East Lothian) stands in as the mill at Lallybroch, Jamie Frasier’s home estate. He escapes the English by diving into the mill water to avoid being captured. Plan your visit to Preston Mill via the National Trust for Scotland.

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Gosford House

Doubling as the stable house at Versailles, Gosford house appears in the second series while Claire and Jamie are desperately try to create good terms with Bonnie Prince Charlie. Note that while part of the grounds are open to the public, the house is open for only certain days of the year. Check ahead before you travel on the Gosford House website. 

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Flotterstone, Penicuik

Just ten miles outside Edinburgh you’ll find Flotterstone near Penicuik, part of the Pentland Hills Regional Park. The spot of Season 1’s Cocknammon Rock, where Heughan and his men clash with the English. If you’re looking for some stunning scenery on Edinburgh’s doorstep, look no further than the Pentlands. 

You can tune in to the latest Outlander episodes in the UK on Amazon Prime

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For further information about films shot in Edinburgh, see the city’s film office Film Edinburgh

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