What is the Edinburgh Movie and TV Locations Tour?

A 90-minute walking tour of Edinburgh’s film and TV filming locations, led by local film journalist and author, Jonathan Melville. You’ll visit the streets, closes and historic buildings that have appeared in Outlander, Avengers: Infinity War, One Day, Fast & Furious 9, Trainspotting 2, Baby Reindeer, Good Omens and many more.

Can I book a private group tour?

Yes, please see the options available and feel free to discuss options for private groups, corporate bookings or bespoke tours.

How do I book?

Booking is available directly through this website.

Who leads the tour?

Jonathan Melville, Edinburgh film journalist, author of six books on Scottish cinema, and contributor to the Guardian, The Telegraph, The Scotsman and BBC Radio Scotland. It’s led by someone who has spent years researching Scottish screen history and interviewing the people who made these films. Find out more.

Where does the tour start and finish?

The tour starts in Parliament Square, Edinburgh. It finishes in Bakehouse Close on the Canongate, which fans of Outlander and Frankenstein will recognise immediately.

How do I get to the starting point?

Parliament Square sits just off the Royal Mile, a short walk from Waverley Station and well served by bus routes along the High Street/North Bridge/South Bridge. The nearest car park is at St James Quarter or Castle Terrace.

How long does the tour last?

90 minutes. Actual walking time is usually no more than 30 minutes (though August crowds might extend that slightly!), while the rest is spent at each location, so there’s no route-marching involved.

How far do we walk?

All the locations are within a relatively compact area of the Old Town. The total walking distance is modest, comfortable for most fitness levels, though the Old Town does involve some cobblestones and gentle gradients.

What locations does the tour visit?

St Giles’ Cathedral, Parliament Square, the High Street, Victoria Street, Lady Stairs’ Close, the Mound, Waverley Station, Cockburn Street, Tweeddale Court, Canongate Tolbooth and Bakehouse Close.

Will we go inside any of the buildings?

No, the tour takes place on public streets and closes. We won’t be entering visitor attractions, so there’s no need to factor in entry fees.

What films and TV shows are covered?

Outlander, Avengers: Infinity War, One Day, Fast & Furious 9, Frankenstein, Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga, Rebus, Trainspotting 2, Good Omens, Department Q, Restless Natives, Baby Reindeer, Cloud Atlas, and more.

Is this suitable for children?

Yes, the tour covers a wide range of films and TV shows, so there’s something for most ages.

What should I wear?

Comfortable shoes are essential – Edinburgh’s Old Town is cobbled. Layer up and bring a waterproof in colder months; the weather can change very quickly, and all tours run in whatever conditions, short of extreme weather.

What happens if the weather is severe?

Tours run in all weathers, but in the event of extreme conditions that make it unsafe or impractical to proceed, the tour will be cancelled, and you’ll receive a full refund.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellations made more than 24 hours before the tour start time will receive a full refund. Cancellations made within 24 hours or non-attendance on the day, will be charged at the full price. To cancel or discuss a booking, please contact us by phone. Full details are in our Terms and Conditions.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments?

The Old Town’s cobbled streets and closes can be challenging for wheelchairs and mobility aids. Please get in touch before booking, and I’ll do my best to advise or adapt where possible.

What’s your Privacy Policy?

Please visit our Privacy Policy page.

Are you hiring new tour guides?

Not at present — Edinburgh Movie Tours is currently a one-man operation. I may look for additional guides as the business grows, and I’ll share details on my social channels if/when that happens.

I have a question that isn’t answered here

Drop me a message via the contact form, and I’ll get back to you.