Outlander Filming Locations

Have you ever found yourself wondering where is Outlander being filmed? With Outlander series 5 on the horizon, we thought it would be an excellent opportunity to highlight some of the show’s most striking landscapes.

Outlander is a whirlwind historical drama based on Diana Gabaldon’s famous book series that follows the story of Claire Randall, a World War II nurse who gets transported back to the mid-18th century whilst celebrating her honeymoon in the Scottish Highlands. With most of the show’s scenes being shot in Scotland, you can easily visit any of these beautiful locations with no time travel required.

Discover some of the stunning Outlander filming locations listed below…

Doune Castle (Castle Leoch)

Famously known for being the setting of Castle Leoch, this 13^th century structure resides not far from the city of Stirling in Central Scotland.

As the home of Colum and the ancestral seat of Clan Mackenzie, it’s one of the central locations of series 1, featuring the castle itself, its superb country grounds and huge courtyard.

It boasts a colourful story or two having played major roles in the Wars of the Three Kingdoms and the Glencairn and Jacobite Uprisings. And as it happens, Doune is no stranger to the limelight with Outlander being the latest in a long line of productions that have been filmed there, alongside big names including Monty Python and Game of Thrones.

Sticking with the theme of filming locations, why not take a browse through our list of the top Downtown Abbey filming locations, something that could inspire your next Sykes getaway.

Kinloch Rannoch (Craigh na Dun)

Considered by many to be the most iconic location for Outlander, Kinloch Rannoch appears in the pilot episode when Claire visit the stone circles at Craigh na Dun, accidentally time travels back to 1743 during her honeymoon.

Though private land, it is open to the public when farmers aren’t herding sheep. An iconic landscape for those seeking ultimate Outlander filming locations in Scotland with stunning high peaks, mountainous views and plenty of hiking trails for keen explorers.

Culross (Cranesmuir)

Arguably the most complete example of a 17^th or 18^th Century burgh in Scotland, Culross is a medley of winding cobbled streets and quaint traditional buildings. The eagle eyed amongst you will recognise it as the fictional village of Cranesmuir, featured in many episodes of series 1 and 2. The Mercat Cross area pictured above is probably the most familiar spot from the show. The walled gardens at Culross Palace were also used as Claire’s herb garden and the town’s West Kirk doubled as the Black Kirk during episode 3 of series 1.

Culross is a must visit Outlander filming location, especially for history connoisseurs to imagine what 18^th century living would have been like.

Looking for some other activities to get involved with on your UK break? Then our list of unusual animals you can find in Scotland is sure to encourage some long walks and thorough searches for you and your little ones!

Blackness Castle (Fort William)

Then there’s the imposing Blackness Castle in West Lothian. Overlooking the Firth of Forth, its unique appearance earned the castle its nickname of “The Ship That Never Sailed” and I think it’s fair to say that Blackness has had a fairly eventful life.

Built way back in the 15^th century, it has served as The Royal Burgh of Linlithgow, an official residence of the Scottish Monarchy, a state prison and an ammunition depot in World War One. In Outlander however it only has the one role, that of Fort William, the brooding base of operations for the evil Black Jack Randall and the location of Jamie’s heart-rending incarceration.

Discover some of the best hidden gems in Scotland, all perfect for a day out exploring with your loved ones.

Falkland (Inverness)

If it’s Outlander attractions in Scotland you’re most keen about then a visit to Falkland is a must, better known as Inverness and where the show originally began set in the 1940s, the square in particular was heavily featured.

Particularly in recent years Scotland has become a huge holiday attraction for its magnificent rural scenery and historical locations. When you visit Falkland, some popular Outlander attractions include the Bruce fountain and Mrs Baird’s B&B where Jamie saw that ghost in episode 1!

If you’re still debating whether Scotland is the best place for you, why not check out our Scotland travel guide?

Glencoe, Outlander

Featured in the opening credits of every episode, this stunning setting showcases the rugged landscape the Scottish Highlands has to offer. Infamous for its dark past, with the government-sanctioned massacre of the MacDonald clan by the British Army during the 17^th century.

These days, Glencoe is hugely popular for mountaineering and superb hiking opportunities, a highlight for any avid walker. Explore the high mountain peaks and waterfalls with your loved ones, these striking views are perfect no matter the weather.

If that’s piqued your interest, then you’ll want to take a look through our selection of Highland Cottages so you can book your Outlander adventure today!

Honourable mentions…

Pollock Country Park

Featured during series 1, 2 and 4, this Outlander filming location was first used as the scenery surrounding Castle Leoch and where Claire gathers herbs.

Bakehouse Close

Found in the centre of the bustling city of Edinburgh, Bakehouse Close was the filming location for Jamie’s printing shop location, where we see Claire and Jamie reunite after many years apart.

Glasgow University

This renowned university was a filming location during the summer of 2016. It represented Harvard University where Frank was a Professor.

Series 5

Little is currently known about Outlander filming locations for series 5, however a few key places have been mentioned including Queen’s Park in Glasgow. On the outskirts of Stirling, Cambusbarron was used for night filming scenes, whilst the interior and exterior of the Grade A listed Thomas Coast Memorial Church was also featured.

Hopefully that’s got you in the mood to tune in when Outlander series 5 returns. Or who knows, maybe it’s even tempted you into going for your own Outlander adventure, albeit hopefully without the time travel, murder and intrigue?

Image credits: grassrootsgroundswell – (CC BY 2.0); Scotland By Camera – (CC BY-ND 2.0).