From settings for well-loved TV shows to famous film locations, Scotland’s jaw-dropping landscapes dazzle on screen, but nothing beats the feeling of visiting a real-life filming location in person.
Immerse yourself in the worlds of James Bond, Harry Potter and many other well-known characters by visiting the Scottish film locations that their stories have played out in.
Only in Scotland can you visit:
1. CASTLE LEOCH FROM OUTLANDER
Doune Castle in Outlander, with Geillis Duncan (Lotte Verbeek) and Claire (Caitriona Balfe) © Sony Pictures Television
Also known as Doune Castle near Stirling.
Located a few miles north of Stirling, Doune Castle is so popular it’s featured twice on this list. Explore the castle to see the great hall, where luxurious banquets would have been held, and the kitchens, where the opulent food would have been prepared.
2. THE BRIDGE THAT CARRIES THE HOGWARTS EXPRESS TO HOGWARTS IN HARRY POTTER
Glenfinnan Viaduct, Lochaber
The Jacobite steam train passing over the Glenfinnan Viaduct at the head of Loch Shiel, Lochaber, Highlands of Scotland
Glenfinnan Viaduct, Lochaber Also known as the Glenfinnan Viaduct near Fort William.
One of the most famous film locations in Scotland, the Glenfinnan Viaduct is located west of Fort William and was completed in 1901. Enjoy a train ride over the viaduct – the Jacobite Express steam train runs in the summer months too – or stretch your legs on a short walk from Glenfinnan car park to the viaduct to savour unbeatable views.
3. THE EPIC DRIVING ROUTE FROM SKYFALL
Glen Etive near Glencoe Also known as the road through Glen Etive – pictured – and Glen Coe.
The driving route through Glen Coe is arguably the most famous in the country. The mountains surrounding both glens will take your breath away and there are lots of impressive places to stop for a photo.
4. THE STUNNING CHAPEL FROM THE DA VINCI CODE
Rosslyn Chapel, Roslin, near Edinburgh Also known as Rosslyn Chapel near Edinburgh.
With more than 100 carvings and scenes depicted in stone, the exquisite masonry of Rosslyn Chapel has to be seen to be believed. Look out for angels playing bagpipes, people dancing with death and the famous apprentice pillar – the story goes that the apprentice mason who carved this exquisite pillar was killed shortly afterwards by his jealous boss.
5. THE MOUNTAINOUS LANDSCAPES FROM BRAVEHEART
Highland cattle graze in the water of Glen Nevis Also known as Glen Nevis near Fort William.
Glen Nevis is a stunningly beautiful valley in the shadow of Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. There are plenty of walks you can enjoy in the glen, many of which start from the Braveheart car park, which was created as a parking spot for the film vehicles. It’s also part of the final section of the West Highland Way (a 95 mile walking route from Glasgow to Fort William).
6. THE ANCIENT STONE CIRCLE THAT INSPIRED THE STANDING STONES IN BRAVE
The Calanais Standing Stones on the Isle of Lewis
Calanais Standing Stones, Isle of Lewis
Also known as the Calanais Standing Stones on the Isle of Lewis.
Dating from the Neolithic period, the ancient Calanais Standing Stones have stood for over 5,000 years and are older than the standing stones at Stonehenge. Explore the site to feel the majestic power of the stones.
7. THE RUGGED LANDSCAPES OF MACBETH
The Storr and the Old Man of Storr
Also known as the Quiraing and the Old Man of Storr on the Isle of Skye.
The otherworldly landscapes of the Quiraing on the Isle of Skye are some of the most filmed and photographed parts of the country. Enjoy a hike up to the Old Man of Storr and soak up the panoramic views out towards the Scottish mainland and the Isle of Raasay.
8. THE CASTLE OF GUY DE LOMBARD IN MONTY PYTHON AND THE HOLY GRAIL
Also known as Doune Castle near Stirling – again! You can even take the audio tour of the castle that is narrated by Monty Python’s Terry Jones.
Source: Visit Scotland
