Midhope Castle, nestled near South Queensferry in West Lothian, Scotland, lies approximately 15 miles west of Edinburgh within the private Hopetoun Estate.
This 16th-century tower house, a classic example of a Scottish L-plan fortified residence, was originally built for the Drummond family and later linked to the Earls of Hopetoun.
Its robust stone exterior, characterized by narrow windows and a fortified entrance, reflects its historical role as a laird’s home, designed for both defense and prestige. While the castle’s exterior remains well-preserved, its interior is largely derelict, rendering it inaccessible to the public due to safety concerns. The iconic façade and courtyard, set against the backdrop of rolling fields, draw visitors for their picturesque charm and historical significance.
Lallybroch
In the TV series Outlander, Midhope Castle transforms into Lallybroch, the ancestral home of Jamie Fraser, capturing the hearts of fans with its rustic beauty.
Featured prominently in seasons 1 through 3, the castle’s exterior serves as the backdrop for pivotal scenes, including Claire’s arrival at Lallybroch and emotional family moments tied to the Jacobite Rising. Its evocative setting perfectly embodies the warmth and turmoil of the fictional Fraser estate, making it a must-visit for fans of the show.
The surrounding countryside enhances the romanticized Highland aesthetic, cementing Midhope’s status as one of Scotland’s most beloved Outlander locations.
Tours and Visiting Midhope Castle
Visiting Midhope Castle offers a unique experience for *Outlander* enthusiasts, though access is carefully managed due to its location on private land. Visitors must obtain a vehicle pass, costing around £10–£15 as of 2025, and approach via a short walk or drive from a designated parking area. Pre-booking is advised due to limited availability.
While the interior remains closed, fans can explore the castle’s exterior and courtyard, instantly recognizable from the show, and capture photographs of the iconic archway entrance. The nearby Hopetoun House, part of the same estate and used in Outlander for scenes involving the Duke of Sandringham, offers a complementary experience with its grand interiors and guided tours, priced at approximately £13–£15.
Midhope Castle’s prominence in Outlander has transformed it into a pilgrimage site, significantly boosting its profile among tourists. The surge in visitors has prompted the Hopetoun Estate to implement crowd management measures, such as timed entries, to preserve the site’s integrity.
Many Outlander-themed guided tours, offered by companies like Rabbie’s or Timberbush, include Midhope alongside other locations like Blackness Castle or Doune Castle, with day trips ranging from £40 to £100.
These tours provide fans with show-specific commentary and historical context, enriching the experience. For those planning a visit, sturdy shoes are recommended due to potentially uneven or muddy paths, and checking weather conditions is wise given the site’s exposed location.
Practical considerations for visiting Midhope include its accessibility and facilities. The castle is typically open during daylight hours, but visitors should confirm schedules via the Hopetoun Estate’s website (hopetoun.co.uk). Reaching the site by car is the most straightforward option, with a 30-minute drive from Edinburgh via the A904, though a vehicle pass is required for parking.
Public transport options are limited, with the nearest train station at Dalmeny, about 2 miles away, often necessitating a taxi or a long walk, making guided tours a more practical choice. There are no on-site facilities like restrooms or cafes, so visitors should plan to use amenities at Hopetoun House or in nearby South Queensferry.
