Britain’s Film and TV by region: central Scotland
Edinburgh
Arthur’s Seat
Follow in the footsteps of Emma and Dexter, stars of Netflix mini-series One Day, on a hike up Arthur’s Seat. Located in Holyrood Park, this ancient volcano served as a striking backdrop for the star-crossed lovers’ hungover outing. With views of Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, it’s a popular destination for picnics and scenic walks. The Palace of Holyroodhouse, one of the King’s official residences, is at the end of the Royal Mile, closest to this green space.
Edinburgh Castle
At the top of the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle doesn’t just sit above the city – it practically keeps watch. Its oldest surviving building – St Margaret’s Chapel – dates back to around 1130, while the rest of the medieval castle grew between the 12th and 16th centuries. Clients can immerse themselves in its tales on an official guided tour and explore the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny and the medieval Great Hall, or roam at their own pace with timed-entry tickets and an audio guide.
Palace of Holyroodhouse
The Palace of Holyroodhouse, at the foot of the Royal Mile, is the King’s official Scottish address. Your clients can step inside Mary Queen of Scots’ private chambers, peek into Bonnie Prince Charlie’s former apartments and wander the atmospheric ruins of the 12th-century abbey. Audio tours reveal court history, hidden symbolism and centuries of royal ceremony, all framed by views of Arthur’s Seat.
Craigmillar Castle
Set off for Craigmillar Castle, a ruined fortress just a 15-minute drive southeast of Edinburgh city centre, where Outlander fans get a taste of Ardsmuir Prison. Built by the Preston family in the late 14th century, the tower house lies at the heart of a sprawling complex of fortified walls, courtyards and gardens, which include a fishpond shaped like the letter ‘P’ for Preston. Clients can climb the spiral staircases for views across Edinburgh, follow in the footsteps of Royal guests (Mary Queen of Scots lodged here in 1566), and wander through surrounding woodland paths dotted with ancient trees. Some of the plants are even believed to date back to the castle’s original garden.
Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway, Bo’ness, near Linlithgow
All aboard for a trip through Outlander history. The Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway sets the stage for an emotional moment in the first episode of the season, where Bo’ness doubles as the wartime London station where Claire and Frank say their farewells. The vintage steam train also provides a glimpse into Scotland’s railway past. A scenic return route to Manuel along the Forth Estuary takes in waterfalls and the Avon Viaduct, accompanied by traditional afternoon tea. Bo’ness, near Linlithgow, is a 40-minute drive from Edinburgh.
Blackness Castle
Just a 15-minute drive from Bo’ness (and a 40-drive from Edinburgh) lies Blackness Castle, which Outlander fans will recognise as Fort William. Built for the Crichtons in the 15th century, one of the most powerful families in Scotland at the time, its internal courtyard takes centre stage as the headquarters of the villainous Black Jack Randall in season one. But it’s not all about Outlander – clients can explore the castle’s historic grounds, which once served as a state prison, and climb the towers and wall for sweeping views of the Firth of Forth.
Bakehouse Close and Tweeddale Court
Tucked away in Edinburgh’s Old Town, the narrow, cobbled Bakehouse Close has changed little in centuries. Its archways and worn stone steps became Carfax Close in Outlander season three – the setting for Alexander Malcolm’s print shop. Nearby, Tweeddale Court leads to Tweeddale House (1576), both named after the Marquess of Tweeddale who owned the building in the 1670s. Together, the closes offer a glimpse of 16th and 17th century Edinburgh in the heart of the modern city. While in the area, clients can immerse themselves in the Scottish Storytelling Centre, which celebrates Scottish myths and folklore through performance, live music and exhibitions.
Newhailes House and Gardens
Step back into 17th and 18th century Scotland at Newhailes, a grand Palladian villa set in 80 acres of parkland and woodland, managed by the National Trust for Scotland. Situated just six miles (10km) from Edinburgh, near Musselburgh, and once the home of the Dalrymple family, it served as a - gathering place for thinkers of the Scottish Enlightenment - an 18th-century intellectual movement marked by major advances in philosophy, science, economics and education. Highlights include the house’s Rococo interiors, Italian marble fireplaces and Chinese sitting room. Clients can wander the Ladies’ Walk, explore the shell grotto, or refuel at the renovated Stables Café and enjoy views across the River Forth.
Rosslyn Chapel, near Edinburgh
Let clients uncover ancient secrets at Rosslyn Chapel, located just seven miles (11km) outside Edinburgh. Famously associated with The Da Vinci Code, the chapel is a key location in the quest for the Holy Grail, with its stunning architecture and stone carvings looking resplendent in director Ron Howard’s mystery-thriller. Its rich history (and folklore), including its connections to the Knights Templar and ancient legends add to the chapel’s allure. Regular bus services from Edinburgh to Rosslyn take around 40 minutes, while it is a 30-minute drive by car.
Royal Mile
Edinburgh’s Royal Mile may only be around a mile long (1.7km), but it’s crammed with centuries of history – and a few cinematic cameos. Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein filmed along St Giles Street and Parliament Square, while Outlander fans may wish to seek out Bakehouse Close. Marvel’s Avengers: Infinity War shot scenes, and nearby Victoria Street – just off the Royal Mile – hosted high-speed action for Fast and Furious 9. near Cockburn Street. Linking Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the cobbled stretch also packs in St Giles’ Cathedral, the Museum of Edinburgh, tartan shops, cosy cafés and lively street performers.
St Giles’ Cathedral
St Giles’ Cathedral looms over Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, a city landmark since the 15th century. Inside visitors will find the Thistle Chapel (home of the Order of the Thistle – Scotland’s highest and oldest order of chivalry), medieval choir stalls, and stained glass depictions spanning centuries, including a memorial to Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns. The cathedral featured in Avengers: Infinity War, with action scenes staged atop a replica of its roof when the real one couldn’t be used. Tours let visitors explore its architecture, vaults, and its pivotal role at the heart of Scottish history.
Royal Yacht Britannia
For a taste of maritime majesty, the Royal Deck Tearoom aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh’s port of Leith invites clients to sip like a sovereign. Once the private retreat of Queen Elizabeth II, this elegant floating palace also appeared in Downton Abbey: A New Era, doubling as a glamorous 1920s yacht. Today, clients can enjoy afternoon tea in the salon, with floor-to-ceiling windows and views across Leith’s harbour to the Firth of Forth.
getting around
Getting around: Clients can fly into Edinburgh Airport , which welcomes numerous international routes and connections. From the airport, getting to the city centre takes around 30 minutes by bus, tram or taxi. Travel between Edinburgh and Glasgow is quick and easy: trains run every 15 minutes from both Waverley and Haymarket stations, taking around 50 minutes to Glasgow Queen Street.
Glasgow
Kelvingrove Park and Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
Stroll like Outlander’s ‘Sassenach’ in Kelvingrove Park along the River Kelvin, which doubled as Boston Park where Claire Fraser takes regular strolls in season two of the series. Designed in 1852 by Sir Joseph Paxton, its Victorian terraces, ornamental gardens and the McLennan Arch give the park a cinematic air. Hop across the road where the red sandstone Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum awaits with world-class art treasures, from impressionist paintings by Claude Monet and surrealist compositions by Salvador Dalí to early modernist works by the Glasgow School of artists working in the city in the late 19th century.
Glasgow Cathedral
Just a stone’s throw from Kelvingrove Park is Glasgow Cathedral, an imposing 12th century Gothic landmark. Clients can marvel at its colourful stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings before exploring the crypt, which doubled as L’Hopital Des Anges in Paris where Outlander’s Claire volunteered as a nurse. The cathedral also appeared in the 2015 film Victor Frankenstein – and returned to the big screen in Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein (2025), with its haunting interiors once again setting the scene for gothic drama.
Outlander Tour, from Glasgow City Centre
For the ultimate fan experience, invite you clients on an immersive Outlander-themed tour of the Scottish Highlands. From one-day jaunts to multi-day adventures, visit iconic filming locations featured in the series, such as Doune Castle (Castle Leoch) and Midhope Castle (Lallybroch), while discovering the landscapes that inspired the show. The tours start and end in Glasgow City Centre. For a more intimate experience, private tours with exclusive hotel pick-ups and drop-offs are also available.
University of Glasgow
Founded in 1451, the University of Glasgow is Scotland’s second-oldest university and a showcase of neo-Gothic architecture, with soaring spires and echoing cloisters. Its quadrangles doubled as Harvard University in Outlander, where Frank taught before Claire’s return through the stones. Guided tours explore the Hunterian Museum – Scotland’s oldest public museum – as well as The Mackintosh House and the atmospheric cloistered walkways, which have also stood in for Hogwarts wizarding corridors in Harry Potter.
Glasgow Necropolis
For serious Gotham City vibes, invite your clients to walk through the labyrinthine pathways of Glasgow Necropolis, an atmospheric backdrop for The Batman (2022). Overlooking the city, this sprawling Victorian cemetery is brimming with eerie statues and towering memorials. Established in 1832, it is home to more than 50,000 graves and monuments dedicated to Glasgow’s industrial and mercantile elite. Guided tours of this Gothic site dive into the full story of the cemetery’s residents and mysterious past.
Grosvenor Picture Theatre
Step into Glasgow’s cinematic time machine at the Grosvenor Picture Theatre, located on Ashton Lane. This historic venue, dating back to 1921, has been meticulously restored to offer a luxurious movie-going experience. With just two screens featuring soft leather armchair seating, it’s a cosy spot for clients to enjoy the latest blockbusters, cult classics, or a range of special events, including dog friendly screenings on Sundays.
Cafe D’Jaconelli
Step into a slice of cinematic history at Café D’Jaconelli, a popular Maryhill institution since 1924. This retro Italian-Scottish café, with its red leather booths, jukebox and vintage charm, served as the backdrop for a scene in Trainspotting where Renton and Spud share a milkshake before Spud’s job interview. Beyond its film fame, visitors can enjoy anything from a hearty Scottish breakfast to milkshakes and traditional fish and chips.
getting around
Getting around: Clients can fly to Glasgow Airportwith regular buses and taxis to Glasgow city centre taking around 25–30 minutes. Getting around Glasgow is easy on foot and with the Subway – known as the Clockwork Orange – making it easy to reach key attractions. Stirling is just 40 minutes by train from Glasgow Queen Street, with frequent departures throughout the day. By car, the journey takes around 45 minutes.
Stirling
Doune Castle, Stirlingshire
Doune Castle is a prime location for clients looking to mix medieval history and British humour. The striking architecture of this 14th century landmark was used to depict Castle Leoch in Outlander, the home of the MacKenzies. Doune Castle is also a true Monty Python star. In Monty Python and the Holy Grail, it doubled as Camelot where King Arthur and his knights plotted their adventures. Clients can explore the cathedral-like Great Hall, the chapel and the kitchens, while the castle’s downloadable audio guide offers behind-the-scenes stories of its architecture, history and film appearances. From the top, enjoy panoramic views over the River Teith and towards the Menteith Hills and Ben Lomond.
Stirling Castle
Perched above the River Forth, Stirling Castle is a Scottish landmark with a cinematic claim to fame. It doubled as Mary Queen of Scots’ childhood home in Mary Queen of Scots and appeared in Outlaw King during pivotal scenes. In Good Omens, it stood in for Aziraphale’s bookshop, while Game of Thrones fans will recognize it as a backdrop for Westeros battles. Clients can explore the restored Royal Palace, marvel at the intricate Stirling Tapestries, and admire the Stirling Heads, a set of metre-wide oak medallions carved in the 16th century, depicting a range of kings, queens and mythical figures. Wander the majestic Great Hall – the largest medieval banqueting hall ever built in Scotland – and enjoy sweeping views of the Royal Park below, as well as the Ochil Hills in the distance.
Dunfermline Abbey and Palace
Outlaw King brought Dunfermline Abbey back to life on screen as the burial site of Robert the Bruce – and its history more than matches the drama. Founded by Queen Margaret in the 11th century and made an abbey by David I, it became Scotland’s royal mausoleum, a resting place of monarchs and saints. A one-hour-drive from Stirling, your clients can stand beneath the abbey’s Romanesque nave, admire the monks’ refectory, and spot fossilised crustaceans in St Margaret’s shrine. Don’t miss the stained-glass portraits of Queen Margaret, William Wallace and Bruce, or the adjoining Royal Palace – where Charles I was born in 1600.
Deanston Distillery Tour, Stirlingshire
Outlander fans can combine set-jetting with whisky tasting on this immersive tour of Deanston Distillery, located on the banks of the River Teith, just outside Stirling. In Outlander, the former mill stands in for Jamie’s cousin’s wine warehouse on the docks of Le Havre. The distillery’s behind-the-scenes tour highlights the traditional methods used to craft its single malt Scotch whisky, giving clients the chance to learn all about the whisky-making process. The tour concludes with a tasting of some of Deanston’s finest whiskies.
House of Henderson, Stirling
Explore the world of tartan at Stirling’s House of Henderson, a family-run outfitter that has been kitting out Highlanders (and many others) since 1923. Known for its tailored kilts and accessories, this shop is a treasure trove for anyone wanting to channel their favourite Outlander character. Beyond bespoke Highlandwear, clients can browse the shelves for Scottish souvenirs – from tweed and tartan scarves to jewellery and homewares.
Loch Katrine, Stirlingshire
Escape to Loch Katrine in the heart of the Trossachs National Park, where Outlander fans will recognise scenic spots from season two. Glide across the loch on the historic Steamship Sir Walter Scott with Loch Katrine Cruises, taking in the beauty of the surrounding hills and craggy mountains, while gliding past sites including Royal Cottage, built for Queen Victoria’s Loch Katrine visit in 1859. For land-based adventures, hire a bike at Trossachs Pier to cycle the 14-mile (23km) lochside road, or hike the miniature peak of Ben A’an for panoramic views.
Loch Lomond, Stirlingshire
Outlander fans will have lots to explore at Loch Lomond, a 50-minute drive from Stirling, which offers a mix of outdoor adventures. Several locations near Loch Lomond, such as Finnich Glen (known as the Devil’s Pulpit) and Loch Katrine, have been used in the popular series. Nestled in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, the loch is a prime location for boating and kayaking offered by Loch Lomond Leisure, as well as hiking and wildlife spotting. Clients can enjoy walks along the shores or take a boat tour with Sweeney’s Cruise Co.. For thrill-seekers, the 96-mile (154km) West Highland Way provides a set of challenging trails with spectacular views, linking Milngavie and Fort William.
Callendar House
Callendar House is a grand 14th-century mansion, set within Falkirk’s Callendar Park, a 30-minute drive from Stirling. It blends French Renaissance style with Scottish history – and a touch of cinematic drama, having starred in Outlander as the Duke of Sandringham’s residence. Through wars, rebellions and the industrial revolution, Callendar House has hosted Mary Queen of Scots, Oliver Cromwell and Bonnie Prince Charlie. Clients can explore its working Georgian kitchen, learn about the story of Falkirk and the surrounding parkland featuring an arboretum, ornamental gardens and a family mausoleum.
getting around
Getting around: Stirling is just 40 minutes by train from Glasgow Queen Street station, with frequent departures throughout the day. By car, the journey takes around 45 minutes. Hiring a car is the most convenient way to explore destinations outside Stirling.
