West Highland Lochs and Castles

This 10-hour tour covers three key attractions in the Trossachs and Perthshire: Loch Katrine (a large freshwater loch with mountain backdrop), Doune Castle (a 14th-century fortress famous for filming Outlander and Monty Python), and Aberfoyle village. The tour includes coach transport, a guide, and multiple photo stops at scenic viewpoints. It's designed for photographers, Outlander fans, and visitors wanting to see more landscape variety and castle interiors in one day compared to other Highlands tours. Best for Photographers and Outlander fans. This is a easy activity lasting 10 hours. Group size: 2-30. You meet at Glasgow Central Station. Key highlights: Doune Castle entry and tour with audio guide, Loch Katrine with mountain backdrop photography, Aberfoyle village and Rob Roy MacGregor heritage.

Price: £65

Duration: 10 hours

Difficulty: easy

Group size: 2-30

Best for: Photographers and Outlander fans

Best time: May to September for dry weather and wildflowers; April and October for fewer crowds and golden light for photography

Meeting point: Glasgow Central Station

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

7:30am Coach departs Glasgow Central Station - Meet guide outside the station main entrance, board coach, travel northwest toward the Trossachs.

8:30am-10:00am Aberfoyle village and scenic viewpoint - Stop in Aberfoyle for photos and a walk around the village; guide explains the area's Rob Roy MacGregor history and landscape.

10:00am-12:00pm Loch Katrine scenic drive and stop - Travel along Loch Katrine shoreline, stop at viewpoints for photography and walking. Water reflects mountains; best light mid-morning.

12:00pm-1:00pm Lunch break in Callander or Doune - Independent meal at local restaurant or bring packed lunch. Approximately 1 hour to eat and rest.

1:00pm-3:30pm Doune Castle tour and exploration - Guided or self-guided walk through 14th-century castle interiors, dungeons, and ramparts. Audio guide covers history and filming locations (Outlander, Monty Python, Game of Thrones).

3:30pm-5:30pm Return to Glasgow - Coach journey back south, arrive at Glasgow Central Station approximately 5:30pm.

The whole experience takes 10 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at Glasgow Central Station.

• Doune Castle entry and tour with audio guide
• Loch Katrine with mountain backdrop photography
• Aberfoyle village and Rob Roy MacGregor heritage
• Filming location for Outlander, Monty Python, and Game of Thrones
• Multiple scenic photo stops throughout the day
• Accessibility: Coach accessible with wheelchair spaces but limited. Doune Castle has steep spiral stairs to upper levels and uneven stone floors; not fully wheelchair accessible. Loch Katrine viewpoint is flat and accessible. Contact operator to discuss specific needs.

What is included: Coach transport from Glasgow Central Station and return, Doune Castle entry and audio guide, Guide commentary throughout the day, Designated photo stops and scenic viewpoints.

Not included: Meals and beverages, Boat trips on Loch Katrine (optional extra, approx. £12), Gratuities for guide. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Camera or smartphone with high battery, Waterproof jacket or rain coat, Comfortable walking shoes with good grip (castle has steep stone stairs), Layered clothing (wind and rain likely), Sun cream and hat for sunny days, Money for lunch and optional boat trip, Binoculars for wildlife spotting (red squirrels, deer). Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: May to September for dry weather and wildflowers; April and October for fewer crowds and golden light for photography.

Tip: Doune Castle featured in Outlander and Monty Python

Accessibility: Coach accessible with wheelchair spaces but limited. Doune Castle has steep spiral stairs to upper levels and uneven stone floors; not fully wheelchair accessible. Loch Katrine viewpoint is flat and accessible. Contact operator to discuss specific needs..

Operator: Timberbush Tours | Book directly (opens in new tab)

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Glasgow Cathedral (3 min from Glasgow Central Station walk)

This activity is run by Timberbush Tours.

Book directly at their website (opens in new tab).

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 48 hours before departure; 50% refund if cancelled 24-48 hours before.

Accessibility: Coach accessible with wheelchair spaces but limited. Doune Castle has steep spiral stairs to upper levels and uneven stone floors; not fully wheelchair accessible. Loch Katrine viewpoint is flat and accessible. Contact operator to discuss specific needs..

Best time to go: May to September for dry weather and wildflowers; April and October for fewer crowds and golden light for photography.

Is Doune Castle the Outlander filming location?

Yes, Doune Castle appears as the fictional Castle Leoch (Clan MacKenzie home) in Outlander seasons 1-2. The castle also featured in Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975) and recent Game of Thrones spin-off. Audio guide highlights filming locations throughout the castle.

Can I take a boat on Loch Katrine?

The tour stops at Loch Katrine for photos and walking, but the boat trip on the steam ship (SS Sir Walter Scott) is optional and costs approximately £12 extra. The boat ride takes 30-45 minutes and is not included in the tour price.

How much walking and climbing is involved?

Moderate. Doune Castle requires climbing three flights of steep spiral stone stairs to reach the ramparts (approximately 40-50 steps total). Loch Katrine viewpoint walk is flat (10-15 minutes). Aberfoyle village walk is flat and short (15 minutes). Wear comfortable, supportive shoes.