North-east of Scotland film and TV itinerary 

Picture-perfect Culross is so well preserved that a visit is like stepping back in time. Must-sees include its ochre-coloured palace and the Mercat (“market”) Cross, both featuring in Outlander (2014–). Indeed, the village doubles for Cranesmuir in the show, and also stands in for Norway in Captain America: The First Avenger (2011).

Fans of Outlander (2014 –) will recognise the Mercat Cross. A star in its own right, weave your way through narrow alleyways in the historic village of Culross where you’ll find the monument in the small square. Featuring in season one in the fictional village of Cranesmuir, the monument is next to the house where Claire stayed with Gaillius Duncan before they were accused of witchcraft. It can also be seen in season four’s episode, ‘Down the rabbit hole’. The base of the Mercat Cross was built in the 16th century, while the shaft and capital were replaced in 1902 by architect John William Small.  

Striking stained glass, Robert the Bruce’s burial place and fascinating fossils – there’s so much to discover at Dunfermline Abbey. Dunfermline was once Scotland’s capital and its abbey is the city’s showstopper. Standing in its nave, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re actually in Durham Cathedral – they share the same Romanesque architecture. When Robert the Bruce died in 1329, he was buried right here at the abbey, but it wasn’t until 1818 that his tomb was rediscovered. It’s therefore incredibly fitting that 2018's Outlaw King, telling Robert the Bruce’s epic story, chose to film here. The abbey also played host to scenes shot for the 1997 film Macbeth.  

With over 900 years of history to its name, Aberdour Castle has witnessed some of Scotland’s most pivotal moments. Like generations of noble families before you, you too can explore one of Scotland’s oldest standing castles and see how the Scots of the past lived. In Outlander series one (2014), Aberdour stars as the abbey in Scotland where Jamie recovers from his injuries after being at Wentworth Prison.  

Dysart’s harbour once welcomed tall ships, which would arrive with cargo from the Netherlands in the 1700s and leave with coal, beer, salt and fish. Its maritime history makes it a fitting double for France’s Le Havre port in Outlander (2014–), where Claire and Jamie meet the Comte St. Germain.

When Outlander (2014–) needed a stand-in for Inverness, where Claire and Frank honeymoon, Falkland fitted the bill. It’s chock-full of spots from the show, including the Covenanter Hotel (Mrs Baird’s bed and breakfast) and the neo-gothic Bruce Fountain. 

Standing proudly on the Fife coastal path, St Monans Auld Kirk said to be Scotland's closest church to the sea. A place of worship since 1265, you can visit the church from April to October. The fishing village is home to a small but thriving community, wander through the old-style 17th to 19th-century merchant houses, stopping off at a cafe or restaurant to meet the locals along the way. You might recognise the Kirk from the film The Railway Man (2013) starring Colin Firth and Nicole Kidman.

Discover Scotland’s fishing heritage in the pretty port of Anstruther, where no trip is complete without a locally caught fish supper. You don’t need to leave dry land to follow in the fishing community’s footsteps thanks to the Scottish Fisheries Museum, which brings their stories to life. A highlight of the museum is its collection of some 15 boats, including the Reaper, a restored Fifie Sailing Herring Drifter. These boats studded Scotland’s east coast during the 19th and 20th centuries, and the Reaper even makes a cameo in series two of Outlander (2016), when it appears as one of the boats in Dysart Harbour. Finish up at the award-winning Anstruther Fish Bar, with its delicious secret-recipe batter.

For two miles (3.2km) of golden sand, rolling dunes and a world-renowned golf course, head to St Andrews’ West Sands Beach. Around a 15-minute walk from the centre of the town, film buffs will recognise it from the iconic opening sequence of 1981's Chariots of Fire. 

Follow in royal footsteps at Scotland’s oldest university, as seen on The Crown. St Andrews has been a seat of education since 1413, when its university was founded, but you don’t need to be a student to get a taste of life here. Join a local guide for a walking tour, taking in the university as well as the town’s cathedral, castle and iconic golf courses. In 2023, Netflix came to St Andrews to film series six of The Crown to retell the love story of the Prince and Princess of Wales, who met here as students in 2001. 

Whether you’re a pro putter or new to the world of golf, there’s no better place to learn about its history than the R&A World Golf Museum. There’s more than 500 years of stories to discover, brought to life with interactive displays and six distinct thematic displays. If you’re peckish, head upstairs to the brasserie for unbeatable views over the Old Course and West Sands Beach. St Andrews is known as the ‘Home of Golf’, so why not play a round at one of its iconic courses while you’re here? 

Welcome to the new home of the Stone of Destiny, a symbol of Scotland’s monarchy for centuries. This legendary sandstone block was used for the inauguration of Scottish kings and later British monarchs, including the coronation of King Charles III in 2023. On display in Edinburgh Castle until spring 2024, it’s now pride of place in the refurbished Perth Museum, returning to the area for the first time in over 700 years. Some of the museum’s quirkier exhibits are Miss Ballantine’s Salmon, a monster fish caught in 1922, and the Strathmore Meteorite, the largest ever recorded in Scotland. 

Surrounding this historic palace are gorgeous gardens and a peaceful woodland, home to lots of curious peacocks. It’s perfect for a visit with kids, thanks to its adventure playground and beech tree maze – planted in half green, half copper, to imitate the iconic Scottish tartan. Several film crews have set up their kit here, too. Including TV shows Antiques Road Show, The Great British Bake Off and Escape To The Country. The grounds and wider estate have also featured several times in the time-travelling drama, Outlander (2014–).

Step into Balhousie Castle and the rich history of the Black Watch. Thought to date back to the 12th century, the castle’s current iteration dates from around the 1860s and is the ancestral home of The Black Watch. Formed in 1739, The Black Watch has kept the Highlands under close guard through the world's conflicts. Head to the museum to discover uniforms, paintings, medals photographs and more; take a guided tour or book a private Black Watch Story Tour to hear all about the regiment's colourful history. Enjoy a warm welcome at the Bistro @ The Castle, then head to the gift shop for handpicked local gifts. Lookout for special events, activities, exhibitions and talks throughout the year. 

A place of worship since the Middle Ages, Tibbermore Church in Perthshire has plenty of history under its belt. The interior boasts striking wooden bench pews and a pulpit that looks like an ancient courtroom stand, so it’s no wonder that the TV show Outlander (2014–) shot scenes for the which trial of Claire and Geillis is season one, episode 11. Explore the church which is portrayed to be in the fictional town of Cranesmuir, though most scenes for the town were shot in the real-life location of Culross, some 40 miles (65km) away from Tibbermore.

One for nature lovers, Drummond Castle Gardens offer everything from snowy splendour in winter, to a summertime riot of colour. While the Perthshire-based castle remains a family home, its grounds are open for walks and picnics, and are largely wheelchair accessible too. Spring holds Easter egg hunts amid its fountains and flowerbeds, autumn brings spooky trails and pumpkin carving for Halloween and winter becomes a wonderland dreamland of sleigh rides, treasure hunts and decoration-making workshops. Remember those Versailles scenes in Outlander series two in 2016? Spoiler alert: they were filmed here rather than in France.

During the Roys' trip to Scotland in Succession (2018–2023), they stay in the suitably luxurious surroundings of Gleneagles. This five-star resort hotel has been creating millionaire moments for almost a century and is a particular favourite of golfers thanks to its three championship courses. From horse riding to off-roading, award-winning spa escapes and Michelin-starred dining, there’s plenty to enchant away from the greens too. 

When the V&A Dundee opened in 2018, it broke new ground as Scotland’s first dedicated design museum. An ever-changing calendar of exhibitions and workshops includes the Dundee Tapestry, celebrating the city’s industrial heritage and creativity. In the “Dundee” episode of Succession series two (2019), businessman and patriarch Logan Roy celebrates 50 years as CEO of his company, Waystar RoyCo, in this spectacular setting. 

Top-quality creative experiences, available to everyone – that’s the ethos of this spirited theatre, home to the Dundee Rep Ensemble and Scottish Dance Theatre. Actor Brian Cox, best known as Succession’s Logan Roy, was born in Dundee and trained here back in the 1960s – he even returned in 2025 to premiere a new production, Make It Happen. All year round, expect a super line-up of drama, dance, music and comedy, with Scottish talent taking centre stage. Enjoy a pre-theatre dinner at the award-winning Rep Restaurant while you’re here. 

See Dundee – and if you’re lucky, its resident dolphins – on a fun-filled RIB adventure. Join SaltDog Marine on their popular one-hour trips from Broughty Ferry, where you’ll be treated to a sea-breezy new perspective on Dundee’s sights. Look out for the striking V&A Gallery and the Larick Beacon, an old pile lighthouse, as well as the odd cruise ship. There’s even a community of bottlenose dolphins who call this area home, so keep an eye out for them. 

Get green-fingered at Dundee’s urban oasis, a showcase for British plants. Spread across 27 acres, it’s free to visit and will keep you busy for hours – especially on a sunny day. It’s a great place for the family to let off some steam, with buggy-friendly paths and baby changing facilities at the visitor centre. Here you can also pick up useful guides to the gardens to plan your visit.

From brown bears to myna birds, you’ll find creatures great and small at this small zoo. It’s part of Camperdown Park, the largest park in Dundee, and is home to over 50 species. Don’t miss the bears making a splash in their pool and the ear-splitting squawks of the hyacinth macaws, the largest species of flying parrot. Bears roamed wild in Scotland in ancient times, and the Bear Broch Visitor Centre is a replica of an old Scottish stone dwelling that may have existed in those days.  

If laughter is the best medicine, Dundee is dishing out prescriptions at the Icebreaker Comedy Club. With local performers alongside national talent, catch a comedic performance at this inclusive venue. The longest running comedy club in Dendee, there’s a reason this place has stood the test of time. 

Dramatically perched on top of ancient craggy rocks overlooking the North Sea are the ruins of Dunnottar Castle. Around two miles (3.2km) south of Stonehaven in Aberdeenshire, the castle is steeped in history. With evidence of early habitation around 5000BC to Christian missionaries, Scottish kings and queens and invading Vikings, walk directly in the footsteps of its many historic ancestors as you get up close to the fortress walls. Inspired by the rugged scenery while visiting, Disney and Pixar weaved in aspects of the castle into the fictional DunBroch castle in Brave (2012). Other filming credits include the 1990s movie Hamlet starring Mel Gibson, which saw Dunnottar standing in for Elsinore Castle, and the 2015 film Victor Frankenstein.

Love Disney? Then you’ll recognise Craigievar in Aberdeenshire: legend has it, those towering turrets and pink facade inspired Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle. This striking castle was a family home until the 1960s, but is now open to the public, offering guided tours of its artworks, artefacts and weapons. With no artificial light on the upper floors, you’ll see it exactly as it was when first completed in 1626.

Secret staircases, hidden trapdoors and a spy hole – there’s a quirky side to one of Scotland’s largest castles to discover. With its pretty turrets, Castle Fraser looks straight out of a fairytale. Explore the grand hall and state rooms, brimming with family treasures, and climb to the top of the round tower for a bird’s-eye view of the estate. In 2006’s The Queen, the castle’s handsome exterior doubles as Balmoral Castle. 

The Scottish holiday home of the Royal Family, take time to tour the historic gardens and estate of Balmoral Castle. You can even rent a royal cottage in the grounds, catch an outdoor theatre performance in summer, or join a guided wildlife-watching tour with its rangers.

Boot up to discover Britain’s largest National Nature Reserve – where you’ll also find four of our five highest mountains. If you’re looking for a hike with variety, you won’t find much better than this, with more than 29,000 hectares of moorlands, pine forests, mountains and wetlands to enjoy. Wildlife-watchers, look out for red squirrels and pine martens, as well as golden eagles swooping overhead. You might even spot a certain caped crusader – the nail-biting opening scene of 2012's The Dark Knight Rises, involving a hijacked plane, has Mar Lodge’s landscapes as its backdrop. 

Need a digital detox? Wake up to the sounds of nature, surrounded by rolling hills, looking down into the glen of the Cairngorms countryside. Get off the beaten track and choose a bespoke glamping pod at Howe of Torbeg away from the hustle and bustle of city life. With logs and charcoal available to purchase on site, try your hand at open fire or camping stove cooking. There’s also a communal snug area to get to know your fellow glampers over a hot toddy and warm fire. The local village of Ballater is around five minutes away by car; head over for local fare and the farmers market taking place from April to November on the last Saturday of the month. Enjoy bird watching, walking trails or a spot of wild swimming. For a galactic adventure, book a Wild Stargazing Experience in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park.

Opened in 1885, the Aberdeen Art Gallery will take you on a journey through artistic history right up to the present day. Packed with contemporary artworks from local and international artists, there are 18 galleries to take in. Set over three floors, the gallery is accessible to all, look out for concerts, events, workshops and family fun. Want to take your visit to the next level? Listen to a curated playlist inspired by the collections as you wander throughout, or download a digital guide that gets even further behind the collections. 

For a great place to spot playful dolphins all year around, head to Torry Battery in Aberdeen. With panoramic views of the harbour mouth and the North Sea, you can sometimes spot seals, otters and whales too.

Perched on a cliff above the North Sea, these 16th-century ruins are bringing the drama. Wander around its roofless corridors for yourself and imagine its past grandeur. Dracula author Bram Stoker mentions the castle in two of his novels, The Watter’s Mou’ and The Mystery of the Sea, after staying here, but its links to the famous vampire himself have never been proven. If you’ve been glued to The Crown (2016–2023) like us, you’ll recognise Slains Castle when it doubled for Castle Mey when the Queen Mother goes to Scotland. 

Whether you’re after adrenaline-fuelled thrills or a seaside chill, Cruden Bay offers the best of both worlds. There are two miles (3.2km) of sands to enjoy, which have a warm pink glow. Want to get active? Tee off at nearby Cruden Bay Golf Club, which overlooks the water, or enjoy the waves from your surfboard, kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Or, simply lay down a towel and sunbathe on the sands – the choice is yours. See this peaceful spot in The Crown (2016–2023).

Whether you’re watching the fishing boats from its harbour or sampling their bounty at its seafood restaurants, Macduff’s fine fishing heritage is yours to discover. You can also meet the creatures who call the Moray Firth home at the Macduff Marine Aquarium (closed until early 2026 for upgrades). In the fifth series of The Crown (2016–2023), ‘Queen Elizabeth II’ (Imelda Staunton) can be seen at Macduff harbour.  

Follow Portsoy’s twisting streets to its 17th-century harbour, which comes to life every summer with the Scottish Traditional Boat Festival. It puts Scotland’s boat building heritage firmly in the spotlight, but it’s also a great chance to pick up some local souvenirs and try some coastal delicacies. Back in the town, learn all about Portsoy Marble, which was once shipped to Versailles, and pick up some treasures in the gift shop. (Spoiler alert: the ‘marble’ is actually green or red serpentinite.) See Portsoy on the small screen in the first episode of Peaky Blinders’ sixth series (2022) . You can even have a drink at the pub featured in the show, the Shore Inn.  

Want some adrenalin-fuelled fun? Feel the breeze whizzing past your face as you shoot down the side of Cairngorm Mountain. Seated on an inflatable rubber tire, take your pick from two custom-built slides: The Spindrift, which is 70 metres long, and The Cliffhanger, which – as the name suggests – is a much steeper slide. All that’s left to do is sit back, hold on tight, and enjoy the ride with views of Loch Morlich and the Spey Valley as you go. Fun for all the family age four up (between one to two metres tall), you can book an individual or group session. 

This beautiful estate sits in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, with a host of adventurous activities in store. You can walk, cycle or canoe around this tranquil spot, and even take a ‘Hairy Heilan Coo Safari’ to meet its four-legged residents. It's epic scenery across the estate has featured in several shows, including The Crown (2016–2023) as the Royal Family’s summer residence, Outlander (2014–) where Claire and Jamie first meet, and Monarch of the Glen (2000–2005). It also features in the James Bond film, No Time to Die (2021).

Discover what Highland life was like in the past with this popular living history museum in the Cairngorms. This 80-acre living history site brings to life the past, from the 1700s to the 1950s, and visitors can see how Highlanders lived and worked through the ages. With around 35 buildings to explore, from homes to a school, it’s like travelling back in time. The museum is open from March to October and entrance is free. The museum was a filming location for Outlander (2014–), and ever since it has hosted ‘Outlander Day’, where you can experience Jacobite life for yourself.  

Wander the picture-perfect trails that criss-cross the Ardverikie Estate – and look out for its herd of 1,000 red deer. Bag your first Munro, go rock-climbing at the ‘Ardverikie Wall’ or look out for the estate’s nesting pairs of golden eagles and ospreys. Ardverikie makes a dramatic backdrop for a car chase in No Time To Die, and you may also know Ardverikie House as Glenbogle from Monarch of the Glen (2000–2005). If you want to make a weekend of it, there are cosy holiday cottages on the estate and subject to availability, guests may be able to take a tour of Ardverikie House (not normally open to the public) to see its interior filming locations.