Britain’s Film and TV by Region: North-east Scotland
Stop 1 - Fife
St Andrews
St Andrews on Fife’s east coast is home to Scotland’s oldest university and is widely considered to be the birthplace of golf. The University of St Andrews played itself in The Crown, while film buffs might recognise the nearby West Sands Beach from the opening sequence in Chariots of Fire. Combine a seafront stroll with a visit to the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral, Scotland’s largest medieval church and former seat of Scotland’s leading bishops. Climb St Rule’s Tower to see far-reaching views across St Andrews and Fife. Afterwards, explore the town’s independent shops, historic pubs, and golfing heritage, including a visit to the famous greens of the Old Course.
Beecraigs Country Park, near Linlithgow
Clients can lose themselves in woodland scenery at Beecraigs Country Park, which doubled as 18th-century Scottish backcountry in Outlander. Located near the historic town of Linlithgow, the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots, the 370-hectare park offers walking and mountain biking trails, fishing lochs and panoramic views of the Forth bridges. Keep an eye out for Highland cattle grazing nearby or try orienteering, an outdoor navigation sport using maps and a compass to find your way between a series of checkpoints. While in the area, book a boat trip on the Union Canal with Linlithgow Canal Centre and visit Scotland’s only Canal Museum.
R&A World Golf Museum, St Andrews
Swing by the R&A World Golf Museum in St Andrews, the home of golf, to explore 400 years of golfing history. This interactive space sits opposite the Old Course and covers everything from 15th-century equipment to the cap worn by Tiger Woods’s during the 2005 Open. With hands-on exhibits, trophies and even golf simulators, it’s a treasure trove for golf enthusiasts and visitors curious about the sport’s Scottish roots.
Scottish Fisheries Museum, Anstruther
Set sail through maritime history at The Scottish Fisheries Museum in Anstruther, which doubled as a French port in Outlander. The museum houses examples of costume, paintings, models and gear that tell the story of Scotland’s fishing industry, with boats on display and a programme of temporary exhibitions. The harbour next door is a good spot for tucking into fish and chips afterwards, with fresh catches available from the award-winning Anthruther Fish Bar.
Falkland
Falkland, a picturesque village nestled below the Lomond Hills in Fife, stood in for 1940s Inverness in Outlander. Its traditional stone houses are recognisable from the long-running series, as is the Bruce Fountain where Jamie Fraser’s ghost watches Claire Randall in season one. History lovers can visit Falkland Palace with its Renaissance architecture and extensive gardens, as well as a hunting lodge used by Mary Queen of Scots. Another highlight is the palace’s royal tennis court – one of the oldest in Britain.
Aberdour Castle
Step into Aberdour Castle, one of Scotland’s oldest standing castles with parts dating to the 1100s, to relive some of Outlander’s most haunting scenes. Aberdour Castle stood in for Sainte Anne de Beaupré monastery, where Jamie recovered after Wentworth Prison. Beyond its star appearance, the castle boasts a 17th-century painted ceiling, as well as walled and terraced gardens, and an orchard.
Culross
Wander through the winding streets of Culross, a 17th-century fishing village on the Firth of Forth, a 40-minute drive from Edinburgh. Here, Outlander fans can spot Claire’s herb garden and the fictional village of Cranesmuir. Don’t forget to visit the ochre-painted Culross Palace and its orchard garden, as well as the 13th-century ruins of Culross Abbey situated on a steep slope with far-reaching views over the town and beyond.
getting around
Getting around: The nearest major airport is Edinburgh Airport, with the route to Fife taking around 45 minutes by car. From the airport, clients can hire a car or take a train via Edinburgh Waverley station to towns including St Andrews. The journey from Fife to Perth takes around an hour by car or train.
Stop 2 - Perth
Perth Treasure Hunt Trail
Perth, Scotland’s former medieval capital, sits on the River Tay, around one hour 30 minutes to the north of Edinburgh. An engaging way to discover the city is the 1.75-mile self-guided Perth Treasure Hunt Trail, which, once downloaded from Treasure Trails, sends clients past statues, monuments and riverside landmarks, solving clues as they go. The route loops through the North Inch recreation space and back to the Kinnouil Street Car Park in the city centre, offering a fun way to see Perth’s sights.
Drummond Castle, Crieff, near Perth
Clients can lose themselves in one of Scotland’s finest formal green spaces at Drummond Castle Gardens, a 30-minute drive west of Perth. Landscaped 17th-century parterres with symmetrically pruned hedges and shrubs create a stunning kaleidoscope of patterns. Outlander fans will recognise it as the gardens of Versailles from Season 2. Don’t miss the panoramic view across Perthshire from the upper terrace. To make the most of a visit, your clients can stay in one of the cosy holiday cottages on the estate, which includes full unlimited access to the gardens.
Gleneagles Hotel, Auchterarder
Indulge in classic luxury at Gleneagles, the traditional five-star hotel built in 1924 known as the ‘Riviera in the Highlands’. A star of HBO’s Succession, this 850-acre estate offers three championship golf courses, a falconry school, equestrian centre, and even off-road driving. Guests can enjoy Michelin-starred dining at Andrew Fairlie or sip cocktails in the elegant 1920s-style American Bar. Only a 20-minute drive from Perth city centre, even a short visit delivers a taste of Scottish luxury and heritage, whether clients are just stopping for afternoon tea or exploring its grounds.
Perth Museum, Perth
See one of Scotland’s most legendary treasures up close: the Stone of Destiny, returned to Perth in 2024. This ancient coronation stone, used for the crowning of Scottish monarchs for centuries, is the centre piece of the Perth Museum. Housed in an Edwardian building, the museum is also home to rare Pictish stones, Jacobite relics and Roman artefacts which tell the story of the Perth and its role at the heart of Scottish royal and political life. Interactive exhibits, temporary exhibitions and events bring history to life and give clients a chance to dive deeper into local history. Please note: the Stone of Destiny experience is currently closed for repairs; please check the museum website for updates on the reopening date.
Scone Palace, near Perth
Walk in the footsteps of royalty at Scone Palace, a 10-minute drive from Perth, where Scottish kings were once crowned on the Stone of Destiny, which gave Perth its importance in medieval times. Now the home to the Earls of Mansfield, clients can explore the stately rooms housing collections of furniture, porcelain and paintings, or take a guided tour for a behind-the-scenes look into the history of this place. Outside, the grounds feature a pinetum, a star-shaped maze and peacocks roaming freely. Special events throughout the year include Wreath Making Workshops at Christmas, Candlelit Tours, Falconry Fridays, and garden fairs.
The Black Watch, Balhousie Castle, Perth
Explore centuries of military history at Balhousie Castle, home of the Black Watch regiment – originally formed in the early 18th century to watch over the Scottish Highlands and keep the peace after the Jacobite Risings. Inside, clients can discover more than 300 years of stories, from battles in Fontenoy, Belgium, in 1745 to campaigns in World Wars I and II. Original uniforms, medals and weaponry are displayed alongside personal letters from soldiers. The on-site bistro offers a chance to reflect over tea and scones.
Perth Concert Hall
Step into the heart of Perth’s cultural scene at Perth Concert Hall. Founded in 1900, the theatre was refurbished in 2017 and now boasts a new glass and steel exterior, and a main auditorium with improved acoustics. Another architectural highlight is the glass-fronted foyer spaces that double as exhibition and reception areas. Beyond big concerts, clients will find film screenings, talks and family events all taking place here.
Getting around
Getting around: Dundee, the next stop, can be reached by car in around 30 minutes. Regular trains connect Perth and Dundee too, taking around 25 minutes, with services running throughout the day.
Stop 3 - Dundee
V&A Dundee
Marvel at V&A Dundee, housed in a striking building clad in horizontal concrete panels. Designed by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, it seeks to evoke thoughts of the Scottish coastline and its rugged cliffs. Inside Scotland’s first design museum, clients can explore exhibits on everything from Scottish design to global fashion. Highlights include the restored Oak Room by Charles Rennie Mackintosh and touring exhibitions from the London V&A. After an afternoon of exploring the collection, relax at the Tatha Bar and Kitchen or browse the museum shop for gifts and design-related books. Travel Trade Group Bookings are available via the museum’s website.
SaltDog Marine Boat Trips
Go on an adventure with SaltDog Marine, whose RIB boat tours explore the Tay estuary. Clients may spot grey seals, seabirds swooping overhead, and if they are lucky, perhaps even Bottlenose Dolphins leaping out of the water. During the exhilarating ride, take in the striking architecture of the V&A Dundee building from the waterside, and the Larick Beacon – a former lighthouse – rising from the water. Skippers share local history and stories, making each trip an educational and fun way to dive into the history of Dundee and its maritime wildlife.
Dundee Rep Theatre
Catch cutting-edge drama at Dundee Rep, home to Scotland acclaimed acting ensemble as well as Scottish Dance Theatre. The theatre has produced numerous acclaimed and award-winning productions, including the Scottish premiere of the Pulitzer Prize-winning August: Osage County, and stages everything from Tennessee Williams to new Scottish writing. Clients can enjoy a pre-or post-performance meal at The Rep Restaurant or browse the shop for branded gifts – from tote bags to t-shirts.
SaltDog Marine Boat Trips
Go on an adventure with SaltDog Marine, whose RIB boat tours explore the Tay estuary. Clients may spot grey seals, seabirds swooping overhead, and if they are lucky, perhaps even Bottlenose Dolphins leaping out of the water. During the exhilarating ride, take in the striking architecture of the V&A Dundee building from the waterside, and the Larick Beacon – a former lighthouse – rising from the water. Skippers share local history and stories, making each trip an educational and fun way to dive into the history of Dundee and its maritime wildlife.
Dundee Botanic Gardens
Take a leafy detour into Dundee Botanic Gardens, set above the River Tay, where themed gardens showcase everything from native British plants to exotic varieties from around the world. Glasshouses shelter tropical orchids, cacti and giant water lilies, while outdoor paths reveal hidden sculptures and water features. There is also a sensory garden, as well as herb and water gardens.
Camperdown Wildlife Centre
Encounter Carpathian lynxes, owls, anteaters and brown bears in the heart of Camperdown Country Park, a 10-15-minute drive from Dundee. The conservation-focused Camperdown Wildlife Centre brings clients closer to its residents with daily keeper talks and interactive five-day Wildlife Camps for children each summer, blending animal encounters with creative activities. A play area and café make it an inviting stop for families.
Icebreaker Comedy Club
Laugh out loud at Icebreaker, Dundee’s comedy club which is a hub for local acts in Tayside. Founded by Luis Alcada in 2018, it began with open-mic nights and has grown into a firm fixture in Dundee’s arts scene, showcasing the work of up-and-coming Scottish comedians alongside veteran performers. The club runs regular shows, also including spoken word events and community comedy.
Getting around:
Getting around: Aberdeenshire is around 70 miles north of Dundee. By car, the journey from Dundee to Aberdeen takes about one hour and 30 minutes. Direct trains from Dundee to Aberdeen take roughly one hour and 15 minutes.
Stop 4 - Aberdeenshire
Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven
Climb up to the ruins of Dunnottar Castle perched on a 160-foot (50-metre) rock above the North Sea. Once a stronghold of the Earls Marischal, one of Scotland’s most powerful families, this medieval fortress has witnessed Viking raids, English invasions, and Jacobite uprisings. In the 1650s, it sheltered the Honours of Scotland – the nation’s Crown Jewels – from Oliver Cromwell’s troops, preserving them for the monarchy. Its rugged silhouette inspired the castle in Disney’s Braveand also featured in I, Frankenstein (2014). The walk up rewards clients with sweeping views across the North Sea, with the added drama of the waves crashing below.
Aberdeen Art Gallery, Aberdeen
Discover a world-class collection inside Aberdeen Art Gallery, where sunlight shines through a vast glass roof onto works by Claude Monet, Barbara Hepworth, Francis Bacon, and more. Refurbished in 2019 with a new modern extension added to the neo-classical building, the museum boasts 18 collection galleries, several exhibition spaces, and a sculpture court. The View of Aberdeen display (until 2028) adds a local dimension, sharing what the city means to its people through artworks, objects, and themes of daily life – from ‘far I bide’ (where I live) to the city’s many ‘weel kent’ (well-known) landmarks. While entry to the museum is free, temporary exhibitions, tours and workshops are ticketed.
Castle Fraser, near Kemnay
Step back in time at Castle Fraser, a 15th-century baronial tower house that feels straight out of a storybook. Used as a filming location for The Queen, the castle invites clients to walk through history – several rooms reflect different centuries, from the medieval Great Hall to the elegant Georgian dining room, and the Victorian bedrooms. Inside, marvel at antiques, family portraits, trap doors, secret staircases, and even the Laird’s Lug – a hidden spy hole used to watch guests in the Great Hall. Outside, the walled garden brims with herbaceous borders, as well as fruits and vegetables which are used in the courtyard café. Woodland trails offer a chance to spot red squirrels, roe deer, buzzards and dragonflies.
Balmoral Castle
For a regal day out, visit Balmoral Castle, the Scottish holiday retreat of the Royal Family since Queen Victoria’s reign. Open to the public since 2024 (check website for dates), visitors can explore select rooms at their own pace or join a guided tour for a deeper dive into regal history. The 45 acres of formal gardens – including greenhouses and vegetable patches – showcase King Charles III’s passion for gardening, while estate walking trails lead through lawns, moorland and woodland, offering views of the Cairngorms and a glimpse of royal country life.
Mar Lodge Estate
Discover the wilderness of Mar Lodge Estate, Britain’s largest National Nature Reserve in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, and a filming location for The Dark Knight Rises. The Victorian hunting lodge is set within an ancient Caledonian pine forest, with rivers and towering Munros (Scottish mountains over 3,000 feet / 914 metres). In fact, the estate is home to four of the five highest mountains in the UK, including Britain’s second highest mountain, Ben Macdui. Keep an eye out for red deer, red squirrels, golden eagles and black grouse. The estate’s Stag Ballroom, with its display of thousands of stag antlers, is a memorable piece of Highland sporting history.
Slains Castle, Cruden Bay
Feel the shiver of Gothic horror at Slains Castle, the windswept ruin said to have inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula after his visit in 1895. This 16th-century fortress, built by the Earl of Erroll, now stands roofless and open to the elements, its rooms slowly reclaimed by grass and moss. Wander through the overgrown corridors and peer through empty windows framing views of the North Sea, imagining Bram Stoker conjuring Count Dracula’s lair. For an extra chill, drive 10 minutes to Peterhead Prison Museum, a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award-winning attraction for four years running, to delve into life inside this former jail dating to 1880. Book a guided tour to hear gripping tales of Special Air Service (SAS) rooftop rescues and other hair-raising, but true events.
Macduff
Stroll along the harbour of Macduff, a working fishing town situated on Banff Bay looking out to the Moray Firth, which had a starring role in The Crown. A highlight is the Macduff Marine Aquarium, where clients can walk through a living kelp reef – the only one of its kind in the UK – and see native marine life, from wolf fish to tiny seahorses. The aquarium also runs daily talks and feeding sessions for families. Afterwards, sample fresh seafood in one of the harbour cafés like The Seafront or The Knowes Hotel and Restaurant.
Portsoy
Step back in time at Portsoy, on the Moray Coast between Cullen and Banff, whose 17th-century harbour is one of Scotland’s oldest. Featured in Peaky Blinders, the town is known for its annual Scottish Traditional Boat Festival (12 to 14 June 2026), which fills the harbour with beautifully restored vessels and live music. Visit the Salmon Bothy Museum to learn about the town’s fishing past, then browse shops selling jewellery made from Portsoy Marble, a unique local gemstone.
getting around
Getting around: The drive from Aberdeen to the Cairngorms National Park can take around two to three hours by car, depending on the destination. For public transport, take a direct ScotRail service from Aberdeen to Inverness (about two hours and 15 minutes), then connect to Newtonmore on the Highland Main Line (around one hour and 20 minutes).
Stop 5 - The Cairngorms
Mountain tubing at Cairngorm Mountain
Clients can unleash their adventurous side on the Cairngorm Mountain Tubing Slides, where giant inflatable rings send them flying down purpose-built slides. Each 30-minute session offers unlimited runs, from the 70-metre Spindrift to the steeper, edge-dropping Cliffhanger for brave adrenaline seekers. Open spring through autumn, it’s high-speed fun with exhilarating bends and stunning views. After the thrills, slow things down with a ride on the Cairngorm Funicular railway – Scotland’s only mountain track – soaking up views of the plateau and Loch Morlich.
Rothiemurchus Estate, Aviemore
Wander through one of Britain’s last remaining Caledonian pine forests at Rothiemurchus, set within the Cairngorms National Park, and stretching from Braeriach, Scotland’s third-highest mountain, to the River Spey at Aviemore. Encompassing 10,000 hectares of ancient forest, lochs, rivers, glens and mountains, visitors can engage in tailored experiences such as guided tours with expert rangers, encounters with Highland cattle, quad trekking, gorge swimming and clay shooting. Thrill-seekers can also opt for a Treezone adventure, featuring zip wires, hanging platforms, tight-ropes and scramble nets.
Ardverikie Estate, Newtonmore, Scottish Highlands
Welcome to Ardverikie – a 19th-century Highland estate crowned with château-style turrets near the glittering Loch Laggan. Film buffs may recognise it from The Crown, where it doubled as Balmoral, or from No Time to Die, the 25th installment of the James Bond franchise. Set within 38,000 acres of wilderness, Ardverikie remains privately owned but offers luxurious self-catering stays in its estate cottages. Guests can hike lochside trails, stargaze under dark Highland skies, or simply take in the sweeping, cinematic views from their accommodation.
Highland Folk Museum, Newtonmore
Step into the past at the Highland Folk Museum, an open-air time capsule that brings Scottish history and culture to life across more than 80-acres of historic buildings and exhibits. Fans of Outlander will feel right at home here, as this open-air museum was used to film 18th-century Scotland scenes – from authentic cottages to bustling village streets.
