Has Outlander Increased Tourism in Scotland?

By Michael Ferguson

Scotland has always been a popular destination for travelers, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. However, in recent years, the country has seen a surge in tourism that many attribute to the popular TV series Outlander. The show, which is based on the books by Diana Gabaldon, follows the story of Claire Randall, a World War II nurse who travels back in time to 18th century Scotland.

Outlander’s Impact on Scottish Tourism

Since its debut in 2014, Outlander has gained a massive following around the world. The show’s stunning cinematography and compelling storyline have captivated audiences and inspired many to visit Scotland to see the locations featured in the series for themselves.

According to VisitScotland, the national tourism organization for Scotland, Outlander has had a significant impact on Scottish tourism. In 2019 alone, it was estimated that around 40% of visitors to Scotland were influenced by the show. This translates to approximately £134 million in tourism revenue for the country.

The Outlander Effect

The impact of Outlander on Scottish tourism has become known as “The Outlander Effect.” This phenomenon refers to how popular culture can influence travel decisions and lead to an increase in tourism.

One example of The Outlander Effect is the village of Culross in Fife. The picturesque village was used as a filming location for several scenes in Outlander and has since become a popular destination for fans of the show. Local businesses have reported an increase in footfall since the village was featured on screen.

  • Outlander Tours
  • Many tour companies now offer Outlander-themed tours that take visitors to key locations featured in the series.
  • The tours typically include visits to castles such as Doune Castle (which was used as Castle Leoch) and Blackness Castle (which was used as Fort William).
  • Other popular stops include the village of Falkland (which was used as Inverness in the show) and the Culloden Battlefield, which is featured heavily in season three.

The Future of Outlander Tourism

As Outlander continues to gain popularity around the world, it’s likely that Scottish tourism will continue to benefit from The Outlander Effect. VisitScotland has recognized the importance of the show to Scottish tourism and has even created an Outlander-themed map that highlights key locations from the series.

However, it’s important to note that Scotland has much more to offer visitors than just Outlander-related attractions. The country boasts a wealth of stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and vibrant culture that are worth exploring beyond the context of a TV show.

In Conclusion

Outlander has undoubtedly had a significant impact on Scottish tourism. The show has inspired many fans to visit Scotland and explore its rich history and breathtaking scenery. While The Outlander Effect is undoubtedly beneficial for Scottish tourism, it’s important for visitors to remember that there is much more to see and do in Scotland beyond what’s featured on screen.