Midhope Castle (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Midhope Castle?
What makes it 77% Solo-Friendly: A solo visitor can photograph the Outlander façade, study 16th-century features, and add a John Muir Way walk, but there are no toilets, cafés, or indoor areas if weather turns bad.
This place may be temporarily closed. Please check official sources before visiting.
Positives:
- Quiet setting: Few crowds allow a peaceful exploration and photography session.
- Scenic approach: The John Muir Way offers a rewarding walk with open-field views.
Challenges:
- No on-site facilities: No toilets or café; plan to use facilities in Linlithgow before arrival.
- Uneven terrain: Steep track and cobbled courtyard require sturdy footwear and care.
What is Midhope Castle?
- A 15th-century L-plan tower house on a working farm near Edinburgh, owned by the Hopetoun Estate
- Features a well-preserved stone exterior with bartizan turrets, a multi-storey east wing and a nearby dovecot ruin
- Served as the exterior set for Lallybroch in the Outlander television series
What is so special about Midhope Castle for solo trip?
- Photo the castle’s 15th-century exterior at your own pace.
- Explore via the John Muir Way for a scenic approach.
- Sketch or journal creative memories without crowds.
- Enjoy a quiet, Outlander-themed solo hike.
- Plan ahead: no on-site facilities or shelter.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Enough time to explore the courtyard, sketch details, and walk nearby John Muir Way without rushing.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Midhope Castle
Architecture & History Spotting:
Examine the 16th-century tower house features and nearby dovecot ruin.
Tip: Buy your £7 ticket online to skip the gate and head straight to the courtyard.
John Muir Way Approach:
Walk the John Muir Way path to reach the castle through open fields.
Tip: Wear waterproof shoes and bring water; the path can be muddy after rain.
Photo Journal & Sketching:
Capture or sketch the rough stone walls and empty courtyard for personal art.
Tip: Pack a lightweight sketchbook or camera, plus snacks and water since no facilities onsite.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Midhope Castle
- Early arrival: Visit at opening time to capture photos in soft morning light and avoid shadows.
- Pre-download audio guide: Get the free Geotourist audio guide before traveling for on-site commentary.
- Buy tickets online: Secure entry in advance to skip potential waiting at the gate.
Reviews of Midhope Castle
Jai Harvey-Yin
I thoroughly enjoyed our visit. As an Outlander fan, the interactive self paced tour was really great -‘totally enhanced the experience. The gentleman who greeted us was friendly and thorough and being given high speed WiFi was a bonus to make the experience fluid. Loved it!!!
David Burns
Got out to the site of Outlander’s Lallybrach. This was on a “castle route” from Edinburgh to Inverness. We decided to meander rather than take the quickest route. The walk around the grounds was interesting especially when you matched scenes seen in the show. Walked down by the stream that was the site of several scenes. Plan to rewatch and see if we can pick out the sites we stood on. Parking w...
T W
It's £7 each for entry. You can't go in the "castle" and there is literally nothing else to see. It's a cash grab by the owner. It wouldn't be so bad if the money was being reinvested back into the property but with it's plastic windows and poorly kept garden it's clearly not the case. Save your cash and take a photo from behind the barrier at the car park.
Champagnelifedreams
It was a dream come true to visit LALLYBROCH (Midhope Castle) as my sister & I absolutely love Outlander. Everyone we met was lovely. The weather was glorious making it a favourite magical memory of my 1st Scottish holiday. I cried when I 1st saw it!! Outlander fans will really appreciate a vist to Jamie Frasers ancestral home 10/10
David Reid
Jamie Fraser was Laird and master here from Outlander fame. The castle is being refurbished now. Not much to really see here unless your a True fan. Just remember Hollywood and reality ofter don't look as imagined. A beautiful spot,nice forest paths leading to various locations from the series.
When is the best time to visit Midhope Castle (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
Visit between late spring and early autumn for optimal light and fewer muddy paths. Check weather and dress in layers.
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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Castle entry ticket | GBP 7 |
| Round-trip train to Linlithgow | GBP 4 |
| Snacks and water | GBP 3 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 14 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Midhope Castle
Address: Midhope Castle, Abercorn, South Queensferry EH30 9SL, UK
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