This handy map of Glasgow shows the filming locations from the TV show ‘Outlander’ – here is where to find all the spots
Visit Scotland has put together a map highlighting the filming locations from the smash-hit television series 'Outlander' across Scotland, including Glasgow.
Countless fans have been captivated by the enchanting universe of the ‘Outlander’ TV series, adapted from the popular novels by Diana Gabaldon. Set against a Scottish backdrop, the show boasts some of the most stunning sights and spots our wee country has to offer. Conveniently, Visit Scotland has compiled a handy map bringing the show’s most iconic Scottish locations together in one place. With that in mind, let’s embark on an ‘Outlander’ tour of Glasgow to explore six specific filming locations featured throughout the seasons.
‘Outlander’ follows the journey of Claire, a former World War II nurse who finds herself unexpectedly thrown back in time to the mid-18th century. This sparks a sweeping romance between Claire (Caitríona Balfe) and Jamie (played by Sam Heughan), as the couple finds themselves swept up in the historic Jacobite rising.
George Square
When it comes to stunning architecture, Glasgow never fails to impress. The historic George Square made its appearance in Season 1 of ‘Outlander’ during the 1940s timeline, serving as the backdrop where Frank spontaneously proposes to Claire. As the city’s central hub, it’s the ideal starting point for your tour—especially since it sits right outside Glasgow Queen Street train station for anyone arriving from out of town.
Glasgow Cathedral
Image: Abbie Newton, Unsplash
Our next stop is Glasgow Cathedral, which stands as one of the few medieval churches in Scotland to have survived the Reformation completely intact. In Season 2 of ‘Outlander’, the cathedral’s atmospheric crypt was transformed into Paris’s L’Hopital Des Anges, where Claire volunteers her time. Situated on Duke Street, Glasgow Cathedral is a top-tier tourist destination renowned for its breathtaking Gothic architecture.
The University of Glasgow
Image: Kristina Galvydyte
The University of Glasgow stepped in to portray Harvard University during Seasons 3 and 4. In these episodes, Frank works there as a professor, and Brianna comes to visit him in his campus office. Established all the way back in 1451, the University of Glasgow is actually the fourth-oldest university in the English-speaking world. While exploring campus, be sure to stroll through the inner cloisters and pay a visit to The Hunterian Museum.
Kelvingrove Park
Sitting right alongside the university grounds is Kelvingrove Park, a tranquil riverside haven nestled on the banks of the River Kelvin. Throughout Season 3, Claire is seen taking walks through a Boston park with her young daughter, Brianna. In reality, these moments were captured right under our noses in the heart of Kelvingrove! Looking back, the scene featuring a man playing the bagpipes in the background probably should have given the secret away…
Pollok Country Park
Credit: Shutterstock
Many eagle-eyed fans spotted the gorgeous grounds of Pollok House within Glasgow’s Southside gem, Pollok Country Park, which doubled as the exterior grounds of Castle Leoch in Season 1. Additionally, the park stood in for the French countryside during Season 2 as the main characters journeyed from Le Havre onward to Paris. Pollok Country Park is easily one of the city’s best-loved green spaces, boasting the expansive Burrell Collection, resident Highland cows, and endless woodland paths to enjoy.
Calderglen Country Park
Though Calderglen Country Park is technically located in South Lanarkshire rather than Glasgow itself, it absolutely deserves a spot on this ‘Outlander’ itinerary—especially since we never pass up a good walk, and it’s just a quick 30-minute drive from the city centre. The park is featured in Season 4 during a hunting and fishing excursion with Jamie and Willie that takes an unfortunate turn. On your visit, you can immerse yourself in nature via the many walking paths, or explore the on-site zoo, historic Torrence House, and golf courses.
While the map only boasts six spots, fans can also visit spots like Dowanhill Street, where Claire and Frank lived in Boston, with its red brick homes, as well as St Andrews in the Square – the theatre in Wilmington. Plus, visitors can go to the Old Victoria Infirmary, Claire’s medical practice.
You can find the whole map featuring the most iconic ‘Outlander’ filming locations here.
