With the eighth and final season of Outlander arriving this March, Scotland is once again set to capture the imagination of viewers around the world as Claire (played by Catriona Balfe) and Jamie’s (played by Sam Heughan) story comes to an end.
Fans have already begun speculating about the dramatic conclusion to the show as teaser trailers hint at Jamie Fraser’s death and Claire Fraser’s attempts to deny fate and save her husband's life.
For our USA audience, Outlander season eight will premiere on Starz on Friday, the 6th of March. British fans of Outlander can catch the new season on Saturday, the 7th of March, exclusively on MGM+ (found on Amazon Prime Video).
Season 8 will have an 8-episode run airing weekly, meaning fans can savour the final season or wait until the 24th/25th of April to binge the entire season.
Since its debut, Outlander has introduced global audiences to Scotland’s rugged beauty, Jacobite history, and rich cultural traditions. The series has sparked a rise in highland lovers seeking to walk in the footsteps of Claire and Jamie - exploring ancient castles, mist-covered battlefields, and remote landscapes.
The show has put a spotlight on the tragic history Scotland holds dear to its heart, from the true stories of the Scottish freedom fighters hoping to liberate their people to the lands that inspired such rich mythology and folklore.
If you want to read more about the mythology of Scotland checkout our blog on the Creatures of Folklore.
For fans inspired by the new season, a trip to Scotland offers the opportunity to step directly into the world of Outlander. Many of the show’s most recognisable settings are real places - remarkably preserved towns, castles and landscapes that carry centuries of history.
Just beyond Edinburgh, you can follow in the footsteps of Claire and Jamie across a collection of filming locations that feel as atmospheric in person as they do on screen.
The Standing Stones
Heading north from Edinburgh across the Firth of Forth, the journey begins at the Tuilyies Standing Stones – the inspiration for Craigh na Dun, the mysterious stone circle that allows Claire to travel through time. While time travel may not be guaranteed, the setting captures the same sense of Highland legend and ancient folklore that defines the series.
Culross
This beautifully preserved 17th-century village is one of Scotland’s most picturesque historic burghs. Its cobbled streets and white-harled houses doubled as Cranesmuir in Outlander, and you may recognise the palace gardens as Claire’s herb garden. Walking through Culross feels like stepping back several centuries - little imagination required.
Doune Castle
A short drive away stands Doune Castle, better known to fans as Castle Leoch, the seat of Clan MacKenzie. Its impressive medieval great hall and battlements provide one of the show’s most iconic interiors. The castle has also appeared in productions such as Game of Thrones and Monty Python and the Holy Grail, but for many visitors, it will forever be linked with Jamie’s early story.
Linlithgow Palace
Travelling south, the Royal Burgh of Linlithgow offers time to explore its historic streets and lochside views. Linlithgow Palace served as Wentworth Prison in the series, though its true history is far more regal: it was once a favourite retreat of Scotland’s royal family. Its vast courtyard and fountain remain striking reminders of Renaissance Scotland.
Blackness Castle
Jutting dramatically into the Firth of Forth, Blackness Castle is affectionately known as “the ship that never sailed” due to its shape. In Outlander, it becomes Fort William — the headquarters of Black Jack Randall. From its walls, you can look across the water towards Edinburgh and the famous Forth bridges, blending centuries of Scottish engineering with sweeping coastal views.
Midhope Castle
In the warmer months, Midhope Castle opens its gates to visitors. Recognisable as Lallybroch, Jamie Fraser’s family home, this 16th-century tower house is one of the most beloved filming locations. Though the interior is not furnished, standing in its courtyard offers a powerful sense of connection to the series.
If you’re planning a trip to Scotland and want to take time to walk in the footsteps of Claire and Jamie Fraser, our Outlander and Jacobite Experience is perfect for you.
While Outlander provides the spark, the real magic lies in exploring Scotland’s landscapes at your own pace. From the shores of Loch Ness to the glens of Glencoe and the historic streets of Edinburgh’s Old Town, the settings offer far more depth than any screen can capture.
Spring is an especially beautiful time to visit. As March brings longer daylight hours and fewer crowds than peak summer, visitors can enjoy iconic destinations in a quieter, more atmospheric setting. It’s an ideal season for multi-day journeys into the Highlands, scenic drives along the west coast, or exploring castles and clan heritage sites.
With renewed excitement around the series, early planning is recommended — particularly for popular Highland locations and guided experiences. Many travellers choose to combine Outlander filming sites with other highlights such as Loch Lomond, the Cairngorms, or the Isle of Skye, creating a well-rounded Scottish adventure.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or newly inspired by the latest season, Outlander offers a compelling starting point for discovering Scotland’s history, landscapes, and culture.
If you’re interested in exploring Scotland but want to do it at your own pace, our expert itinerary planners can help craft your perfect itinerary for your own private tour of Scotland.
Outlander is more than just a love story - it's a reminder of the beauty of Scotland and the rich history the lands and people hold.
If you’re looking for things to do in Scotland in 2026, tracing the landscapes behind one of television’s most iconic series offers a unique and unforgettable way to experience the country. From castle courtyards to Highland glens, the real Scotland is every bit as captivating as the world on screen.
