Scotland’s historic castles have provided atmospheric backdrops for numerous television series and feature films , enhancing narratives with their rich heritage and striking architecture. Here are some notable TV shows filmed in or near Scottish castles:
1. Outlander (2014–Present)
This historical drama series is based on Diana Gabaldon’s best selling novels. Outlander filming took place at a number of Scottish castles:
- Doune Castle: Portrays Castle Leoch, the seat of Clan MacKenzie. Its well-preserved medieval structure vividly brings the 18th-century setting to life. Doune appears twice in the opening episode .
- Blackness Castle: Serves as the setting for Fort William, where pivotal scenes involving Captain “Black Jack” Randall occur. Its formidable presence adds to the show’s dramatic tension. This where Balck Jack cruelly whips Jamie Fraser .
- Midhope Castle: A key location, Lallybroch is Jamie Fraser’s ancestral home. The castle’s rustic charm embodies the Fraser family estate.
- Take an Outlander tour and visit Lallybroch Castle with Private tours Edinburgh
2. The Crown (2016–Present)
Netflix’s biographical drama about Queen Elizabeth II utilizes Scottish locations to represent royal residences:
- Ardverikie House: Stands in for Balmoral Castle, the royal family’s Scottish retreat. Its baronial architecture and surrounding landscapes authentically depict the grandeur associated with the monarchy.
- Slains Castle: Features as Castle of Mey, the Queen Mother’s home in Caithness. The castle’s ruins and coastal setting contribute to the series’ historical ambiance.
- Take the Crown castles tour and visit Balmoral Castle with Private tours Edinburgh. Phone / Whatsapp for more details on +447305294773
3. James Bond
The World Is Not Enough (1999)
Eilean Donan Castle was depicted as the Scottish headquarters of MI6 in this James Bond film. The castle appears twice in this Bond film , once during the day and then in a night-time scene when Bond drives his Aston Martin over the bridge to the castle .
Take a James Bond tour and visit Eilean Donan Castle with Private tours Edinburgh
4. Monarch of the Glen (2000–2005)
This BBC series centers on the MacDonald family and their efforts to restore their Scottish estate:
- Ardverikie House: Serves as Glenbogle Estate, the family’s ancestral home. The house’s picturesque setting and Victorian architecture play a central role in the series, reflecting the challenges of maintaining a historic estate in modern times.
5. The Traitors (2022–Present)
A reality competition series where contestants engage in psychological games set against a Scottish backdrop:
- Ardross Castle: Hosts the show’s events, with its 19th-century baronial design providing an atmospheric setting for the unfolding drama. The castle’s secluded location in the Highlands adds to the show’s suspenseful ambiance.
6. Hamlet (1990)
While primarily a film, this adaptation of Shakespeare’s play has been broadcast on television and features notable Scottish locations:
- Blackness Castle: Portrays Elsinore Castle, the Danish royal residence. Its imposing structure and coastal position effectively convey the play’s somber mood.
- Dunnottar Castle . Mel Gibson ( Braveheart ) and Glenn Close filmed scenes at the castle. Visit Dunnottar Castle with Private tours Edinburgh
These productions highlight the versatility and allure of Scottish castles, which continue to captivate audiences worldwide through their appearances on screen. It’s no surprise to anyone that filming in Scotland is increasing each year . With its stunning landscapes and ancient castles Scotland offers a wealth of opportunity for film makers from across the globe