Edinburgh and Outlander by Rail from London 3-Day Tour
Abbeyhill, Edinburgh
Discover the history of Edinburgh on a 3-day tour from London. Explore the city on a hop-on hop-off bus tour, visit the filming locations of the Outlander TV series, and see the real-life Lallybroch.
Edinburgh Three-Day Rail and Outlander Explorer Tour
This three-day tour from London combines a round-trip train journey with guided exploration of Edinburgh, its historic sites, and Outlander filming locations. It suits history enthusiasts, fans of the Outlander series, and first-time visitors to Edinburgh.
Highlights
- Discover Edinburgh Castle and the Stone of Destiny
- Explore Edinburgh with a hop-on hop-off bus tour
- Visit Outlander filming sites including Midhope, Doune, and Blackness Castles
- See the real-life Lallybroch and Clan MacKenzie’s seat
- Enjoy a scenic reserved-seat train journey from London
Tour Description
Day 1: Arrival and Edinburgh Exploration
After a four-and-a-half-hour train journey from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh Waverley, begin your visit at Edinburgh Castle. The 1,100-year-old fortress on Castle Rock reveals its history as a military stronghold, royal residence, and prison of war.
Next, board the hop-on hop-off guided bus tour covering 14 key locations including Grassmarket, John Knox House, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The bus ticket is valid all day, allowing unlimited stops and re-boarding as you explore the city.
Day 2: Outlander Explorer Tour
Leave Edinburgh to visit Outlander filming sites. Stops include Midhope Castle (Lallybroch) and Doune Castle (Castle Leoch). Travel through the Kingdom of Fife with a lunch break in Culross, representing the fictional village of Cranesmuir. The day ends at Blackness Castle, featured as Fort William, with views of the Forth Bridge. Return to Edinburgh by approximately 5:30pm.
Day 3: Free Day in Edinburgh
Spend your final day exploring Edinburgh at your own pace. Walk the medieval streets of Old Town, admire New Town’s Georgian architecture, or climb Calton Hill for panoramic views. Visit Castle Hill to see the Stone of Destiny and enjoy last-minute shopping or sightseeing before your return train.
Includes
- Return reserved-seat train journey from London (chosen travel class)
- Entrance to Edinburgh Castle
- Hop-on hop-off guided bus tour ticket
- Full-day Outlander Explorer guided tour (Day 2)
- Visits to Midhope Castle, Doune Castle, Blackness Castle
- Local guide providing historical context and insights
Excludes
- Tour guide services on Days 1 and 3 (only included on Day 2 Outlander tour)
- Lunch
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Important Information
- Electronic train tickets and full tour details will be emailed one week before departure (or within 24 hours if booked less than one week ahead).
- Train travel is with LNER.
- Days 1 and 3 tours are unescorted. Day 2 Outlander Explorer tour is fully guided by Highland Explorer Tours.
- Train schedule: Depart London Kings Cross at 7:00am, arrive Edinburgh Waverley at 11:20am. Return departs Edinburgh at 5:30pm, arriving London at 10:09pm. Times subject to change.
- Not suitable for children under 5 years. Child age 5-15 years inclusive.
- Midhope and Doune Castles may occasionally be closed for filming; itinerary adjustments will be made if necessary.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 7 days before departure for a full refund.
For best experience, book early to secure preferred travel class and bring comfortable walking shoes. Check local weather forecasts, especially for outdoor activities on Days 2 and 3.
