Outlander's Scotland: Myth, romance and adventure in the Scottish film archive

The following films in this article showcase places, people, and traditions that both complement and challenge 'Outlander's narrative, resonating deeply with today’s Scotland. Although film wasn’t invented during the era in which 'Outlander' is set, today’s talented Scottish cast and crew have brilliantly brought Diana Gabaldon’s books to life for a whole new audience.

We’ll also uncover surprising connections between the screen industry and 'Outlander', a series that has captured the imagination of a global audience. Come along as we explore these fascinating links and celebrate the rich tapestry of Scotland’s cinematic heritage.

Discover the nostalgic charm of a Scotland lost in the mists of time, a romantic theme that runs through the beloved series 'Outlander'. Our collection captures the essence of Scotland’s rich history, from the doomed Jacobite rebellion and the legend of Bonnie Prince Charlie to the breathtaking beauty of the Scottish landscape. These films portray a Scotland brimming with adventure, where the past comes alive on a scenic canvas ready to be experienced today.

'A Song for Prince Charlie' was sponsored by Drambuie, a whisky liqueur company with a recipe said to be passed down from Charles Edward Stuart himself.

'The Enchanted Isles' was sponsored by David MacBrayne, the company running ferries in the Western Isles. Both films were produced by the Films of Scotland Committee, established to promote Scotland both nationally and internationally by depicting all aspects of Scottish life.

These films were crafted to popularise Scotland to the world, encouraging tourism and economic growth. Something 'Outlander' has been doing in its own way more recently.

'Outlander' captivates audiences with its epic battles, political intrigue, and power struggles. Our archive features films made as family activities or hobbies, offering a unique glimpse into how stories were brought to life on film. One such example is Aberdeen-based Group 5, whose ambitious film showcases the excitement of battle scenes and daring stunts at Culloden and its aftermath. Imagine the dedication involved in creating costumes, scripts, and music from scratch.

Another gem in our collection is a video promising further adventures with Bonnie Prince Charlie. Set in Harris and featuring the Harris Drama Group, this video reimagines the prince’s escapades in the Outer Hebrides and his escape with Flora MacDonald. Filled with humour and intrigue, it highlights a community’s response to history and their unique storytelling.

This video is part of the Cinema Sgire community video project, which ran from 1977 to 1981. One of its directors, Mike Russell, was an early champion of Gaelic language screen production. He founded the Celtic Film and Television Festival in South Uist in April 1980 and later became a well-known Scottish politician.

'Outlander' is rich with crafts and customs that harken back to an older way of life. One of the filming locations was the Highland Folk Museum in Kingussie. This open-air museum features a Highland township from the 1700s, known as “Baile Gean,” which was extensively used in the series. Visitors can explore this mile-long site to discover how Highland people lived, worked, dressed, and managed their food.

Our collection also includes films that document skilled craftspeople at work and traditional objects that adorn the sets of 'Outlander'. Thanks to the Scottish Educational Film Association, we have records of the scouring, dyeing, winding, weaving, and tailoring processes involved in making a kilt.

Additionally, there’s a detailed look at how a silver quaich is crafted. This Scottish drinking cup is featured in 'Outlander'’s oath-taking scene, where Jamie swears allegiance to Colum, the Laird of Clan MacKenzie.

These films allow us to gain a deeper understanding of the traditional crafts and folklore that bring 'Outlander'’s world to life.

One of 'Outlander'’s remarkable achievements is its ability to showcase the beauty and diversity of Scotland’s landscapes. Some locations, like the Highland Folk Museum mentioned earlier, serve as actual sets, while others simply inspire.

For instance, the standing stones at Craigh na Dun, a pivotal element in the series, don’t actually exist at Kinloch Rannoch where filming took place. They are likely inspired by real standing stones, such as those at Callanish on the Isle of Lewis.

Our collection features films that show these iconic 'Outlander' locations as they appeared in the 20th and 21st centuries, from Culross to Hopetoun House. These films range from documentaries exploring centuries of Scottish architecture to television programmes highlighting specific villages.

Our archive continues to collect works that resonate with today’s audiences. One notable film, '1745' was released in 2017, inspired by advertisements for runaway slaves that writer Morayo Akandé discovered in historical Scottish newspapers. This film, featuring Clive Russell (who played Lord Lovatt in 'Outlander'), highlights the importance of retelling and reinterpreting stories as new discoveries are made. You can read the catalogue record for the film or watch the trailer.

Our collection also includes films that document significant historical events, enriching the Library’s history of Scottish culture. One such film captures speeches and music marking the 200th anniversary of Bonnie Prince Charlie raising the standard of James VIII of Scotland and III of England. This film, produced by James Nairn and his Caledonian Associated Cinemas in collaboration with the renowned newsreel company Pathe, offers a fascinating insight into the art of film production. This one can only be viewed on site at the Library.

The Scottish film and television industry is a vibrant community where actors often cross paths, creating fascinating connections. Our archive is a treasure trove of earlier works featuring some of your favourite 'Outlander' actors. If you're on site at the Library, you can watch the following films and discover their performances before they became part of the 'Outlander' universe.

With over one-third of the catalogued films in our collection now available to view, there’s plenty to explore online and at the National Library of Scotland in Edinburgh and Glasgow. To wrap up, here are a couple of intriguing 'Outlander'-related titles that you won’t want to miss. 

The first is a prize-winning amateur film made by the Schools Museum Service in Glasgow at Kelvingrove Museum, showcasing weaponry seen in 'Outlander'. Again, you'll need to be on site at the Library to view this one.

The second, written and narrated by Eric Linklater and based on his book of the same name, follows the journey of Bonnie Prince Charlie after Culloden. This rare film survives only on a single 16mm print in the archive.

This glimpse into the rich collection of films preserved by the National Library of Scotland spans from documentaries to feature films. Film and video have the unique ability to bring the past to life, making them the next best thing to 'Outlander's time travel.

For those fascinated by Scottish history, whether it’s the everyday lives of its people or the enchanting myths and legends, there’s always something new to discover.

'Outlander' courtesy of Sony Pictures Television/Lionsgate+