Scotland with Claire (An Outlander Bucket List)

Craigh na Dun

To begin, Craigh na Dun isn't a place you can visit, but the inspiration... Just outside Inverness lies Clava Cairns, an ancient burial site shrouded in mystery and magic. This 4,000-year-old wonder is rumored to be the real-life spark behind Craigh na Dun, the mystical portal that launched Claire's time-traveling escapades. As you wander through the standing stones, you'll feel the weight of history and the whispers of the past. The stones' alignment with the winter solstice creates an ethereal atmosphere that's downright spellbinding. Even though it's not the actual filming location, Outlander fans will feel an instant connection to the show's most iconic moments. So, breathe in the Highland air, let the moss-covered stones transport you to another era, and imagine yourself stepping through the stones, just like Claire. Now if you want to see the absolutely beautiful (and real) area around the fictional Craigh na Dun, head to the heart of Perthshire. You'll find Kinloch Rannoch, a breathtakingly beautiful region that served as the real-life backdrop for the unforgettable standing stone scenes at Craigh na Dun. Though the stones themselves may be fictional, the rugged, windswept landscape that surrounds them is unmistakably authentic. The rolling hills, vast expanses of open moorland and untouched wilderness of this picturesque area. It captures the very essence of the Highlands — a place where the veil between the past and present is at its thinnest. As you stand amidst this majestic scenery, the magic of the landscape is palpable. It's easy to see why this spot was chosen to set the stage for Claire's transformative journey. So pack a picnic, inhale the crisp, fresh air, and let the views wash over you. You can almost feel the whispers of the past, beckoning you to step into the timeless world of Outlander.

Castle Leoch

Step into the majestic Doune Castle, the 14th-century stronghold that brought Castle Leoch to life as the beloved home of Clan MacKenzie in Outlander. Nestled in the rolling Stirlingshire hills, the castle's towering spires and grand great hall are a dead ringer for the show's iconic scenes. As you explore the castle's nooks and crannies, climb to the battlements and drink in the breathtaking views of the Scottish countryside, you'll feel like you're walking in the footsteps of Jamie and Claire. An exclusive audio guide, narrated by the dashing Sam Heughan himself, adds a touch of magic to your visit. Here, the lines between history and fiction blur, and you can almost hear the whispers of the MacKenzies as you imagine their lives, their struggles and their unbreakable bond with the star-crossed lovers.

Fort William

Perched precariously on the windswept shores of the Firth of Forth, Blackness Castle rises like a spectral ship, its rugged silhouette earning it the nickname "the ship that never sailed". It's not just its unique shape that makes it unforgettable. As the sinister Fort William in Outlander, this fortress is forever etched in fans' minds as the place where Jamie endured the brutal wrath of Black Jack Randall. As you delve into the castle's dark, stone labyrinth and ascend the towers, the shadows seem to whisper secrets of the past, and the weight of the show's most intense moments hangs heavy in the air. Yet, the breathtaking vistas across the Firth of Forth offer a jarring contrast to the castle's somber interior. This is a reminder that even in the darkest of places, beauty and drama can collide in unforgettable ways. In case you were wondering, it's nowhere near the town of Fort William.

Inverness

In the charming village of Falkland, Fife, the past comes alive. This picturesque haven served as the backdrop for 1940s Inverness, its cobbled streets and quaint stone cottages frozen in time. Wander through the village and you'll recognize many of the cottages from the show's early episodes. Be sure to visit the Covenanter Hotel, which played the role of Mrs. Baird's Bed and Breakfast, and stand in the village square where Claire caught her first glimpse of Jamie's ghostly figure by the fountain. Falkland's enchanting atmosphere is the perfect antidote to the present. It transports you back to an era of simplicity and charm, just as Claire was swept back in time. Honestly, the village has a magic of its own that may enchant you!

Cranesmuir

Tucked away in Fife, the village of Culross is a treasure trove of charm and history. Its cobblestone streets and whitewashed cottages perfectly capturing the essence of Cranesmuir, the infamous home of Geillis Duncan. As you meander through the village, the flower-filled gardens and rustic architecture will transport you straight onto the Outlander set. The village's historic charm is so meticulously preserved that it feels like a time portal to the 18th century, waiting to sweep you away to an era of mystery and intrigue. And for the ultimate Outlander experience, don't miss the Mercat Cross. This is where some of the show's most pivotal scenes were brought to life — the perfect spot to soak up the atmosphere and relive your favorite moments.

Opening Credits

Glen Coe, the majestic crown jewel of the Highlands, unfolds like a canvas of unbridled beauty. Its dramatic landscapes, a testament to the untamed power of nature. It's little wonder that this iconic glen takes center stage in Outlander's opening credits, its rugged peaks and sweeping valleys weaving a spell of wild enchantment. As you wander through Glen Coe's vast expanse, the scenery shifts and morphs, a kaleidoscope of color and texture that beckons you to explore its secrets. Hike the winding trails, pause at the roadside viewpoints or venture deeper into the glen's mysterious heart. Wherever you roam, the haunting atmosphere of Glen Coe will leave an indelible mark on your soul, much like the haunting refrain of the Skye Boat Song (did you know the original song is about 240 years old?). The experience was nothing short of mesmerizing. It is a symphony of sensory sparks that will forever etch the memory of this unforgettable place in your mind.

• Kitchen Restaurant, Inverness: The Kitchen Restaurant in Inverness is a great spot to grab a bite. It has a cozy atmosphere and delicious local dishes that are sure to hit the spot. Whether you're looking for a relaxing meal or just a tasty bite, The Kitchen is a fantastic choice.

• LYLA, Edinburgh: This seafood spot is housed in a beautiful old Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh, and they're quite picky about only serving the freshest, best stuff. Grab a drink and some snacks at the effortlessly cool bar upstairs, then head to the dining room for a taste of their amazing fish and shellfish dishes - think wild halibut or Scottish langoustines. The food is seriously impressive, with lots of subtle flavors and textures going on.

• Dulse, Edinburgh: Dulse is a go-to for top-notch Scottish seafood in Edinburgh’s West End. It blends fresh, local catch with creative twists for a menu that’s both exciting and rooted in tradition. Expect bold, flavor-packed dishes like lobster crumpet with yuzu brown butter, seared hake with kimchi hollandaise and baked North Sea cod in a rich Goan curry. It’s seafood with a fresh perspective — and every bite is a treat.

• Skua, Edinburgh (Stockbridge): Tucked away in a cozy Stockbridge basement, this intimate spot pairs moody, atmospheric décor with seriously impressive cooking. The menu of rustic sharing plates puts bold, flavor-driven British ingredients front and center. Each dish is carefully crafted and refreshingly fuss-free — don’t miss the standout fried chicken. A thoughtfully curated selection of natural wines rounds out the experience, with the by-the-glass options handwritten on the blackboard. Add in the warm, attentive service, and you’ve got a hidden gem worth seeking out.

• Ardfern, Leith: Right next door to its sister spot, The Little Chartroom, Ardfern is a laid-back gem inspired by the owner's fond memories of a village in Argyll & Bute. Part café, part bar, part bottle shop, it serves up an inviting brunch, a relaxed vibe and a wine list that’ll have enthusiasts grinning. But don’t sleep on the evening's small plates — they’re packed with bold flavors, comforting yet refined. If you love a great meal without decimating your budget, this place is a sure winner.