In the Scottish village of Culross, you feel as though you’ve stepped back into the 17th and 18th centuries. As you wander through its narrow cobbled streets, you’ll find beautifully preserved historic houses at every turn. Fans of Outlander will instantly recognise several spots in Culross, as the village was featured multiple times in the series as the setting for the fictional town of Cranesmuir. I’ve had the chance to visit Culross several times and I’m excited to share more about this special place in Scotland.
Read this article in DutchWhere is Culross located?
Culross is situated in Fife, on the northern shore of the Firth of Forth, a large estuary on Scotland’s east coast. The village lies between Edinburgh and Stirling and is about a 40-minute drive northwest of Edinburgh, just across the Kincardine Bridge. Thanks to its location by the water, Culross offers beautiful views across the estuary.
The history of Culross
The history of Culross dates back to the Middle Ages and is deeply tied to religion, trade and industry. The village was likely founded in the 6th century by Saint Serf, a monk who, according to legend, was the mentor of Saint Mungo, the patron saint of Glasgow. It’s no coincidence that Culross became an important religious centre. In the 13th century, the Cistercian monks built Culross Abbey, which became a popular place of pilgrimage and played a significant role in the region.
In the 16th and 17th centuries, Culross experienced its golden age thanks to thriving trade and industry. The village became famous for its production of salt and coal. Its location along the Firth of Forth made it an important export harbour. Sir George Bruce, an influential merchant and engineer, played a key role in this period of prosperity. In 1575, he built the world’s first underwater coal mine, which extended beneath the seabed. His innovative approach turned Culross into one of the leading centres of the coal industry in Scotland.
Decline and obscurity
In the 18th century, the coal industry went into decline and Culross lost its economic importance. The harbour silted up and the village gradually sank into poverty. As a result, very little new construction took place, which ironically helped preserve Culross’s historic architecture. The village remained almost unchanged and now offers an authentic glimpse into what a 17th-century Scottish village would have looked like.
Rediscovery and restoration
In the 20th century, Culross was rediscovered by historians and recognised as a site of historical significance. The National Trust for Scotland began an extensive restoration project, carefully preserving its old buildings, including the palace, the abbey and the charming white houses with their distinctive orange-tiled roofs.
Things you shouldn’t miss in Culross: attractions and tips
When visiting Culross, there are several places you really shouldn’t miss. For Outlander fans, there’s even more reason to explore every corner of the village. Many of the houses were used as homes for iconic characters and several locations served as the backdrop for key scenes in the series.
Culross Palace
One of the highlights of Culross is Culross Palace. This beautifully restored merchant’s house from the 16th and 17th centuries stands out with its bright yellow walls and orange-tiled roof. Inside, you’ll find historic rooms with wooden ceilings, antique furniture and wall paintings that bring the past to life.
Behind the palace lies a charming garden filled with herbs, flowers and fruit trees, laid out exactly as it would have been in the 17th century. These atmospheric gardens were used in Outlander as the setting where Claire gathers her herbs. In the series, it’s a place where she uses her knowledge of plants to create remedies, making it instantly recognisable to fans of the show.
Hagg’s Steps
The historic, narrow staircase known as Hagg’s Steps leads you to the higher parts of Culross. From the path at the top, you’re rewarded with stunning views over the Firth of Forth, the village of Culross and the beautiful gardens of Culross Palace.
Culross Abbey
At the top of the hill stands Culross Abbey, founded in the 13th century. Although much of it has fallen into ruin, part of the building is still in use today as a parish church. The ruins and surrounding graveyard create a mysterious, historic atmosphere. From here, you also have stunning views over the village and the surrounding landscape.
Mercat Cross and the market square
The historic market square is the heart of Culross. Here, you’ll find the Mercat Cross, a stone pillar that once served as the place for public announcements. Around the square are the typical white houses with bright orange roofs that are so characteristic of Culross.
The market square also features prominently in the series Outlander, where it serves as the setting for the fictional village of Cranesmuir. This is where Geillis Duncan lives and the Mercat Cross is a central location in Cranesmuir. One memorable scene shows Jamie rescuing a boy who had been nailed to the monument.
Culross Townhouse
This 17th-century building once served as the town hall and prison. Today, it houses a museum that tells the story of the village’s rich history. The small cells downstairs offer a glimpse into the harsh conditions prisoners faced in those days.
Narrow streets and cobbled alleys
Stroll through the narrow, cobbled streets such as Tanhouse Brae and Back Causeway. Here, you can truly feel the historic atmosphere, as if time has stood still.
Tea at The Biscuit Café
A visit to Culross isn’t complete without a stop at The Biscuit Café, located in a charming historic building. Here, you can enjoy a cup of tea along with delicious homemade treats.
Lunch or dinner at The Red Lion Inn
Be sure to have a meal at The Red Lion Inn, an authentic Scottish pub. The menu features a variety of traditional dishes, including haggis. Not so keen on trying local specialities? I can highly recommend the steak, which I enjoyed myself. A fun little detail: before your meal is served, you’re given a bib to protect your clothes from splashes as the meat arrives on a sizzling hot plate.
West Kirk
Be sure to take the short walk to the ancient graveyard of West Kirk, located a little further out. In Outlander, this graveyard represents the fictional cemetery of Black Kirk, where Claire and Jamie discover why many boys from the village fall ill after visiting the site. It’s a mysterious place that feels almost eerie, especially on gloomy, windy days. Definitely worth a visit.
Walking along the Firth of Forth
Take a walk along the waterfront for beautiful views of the Firth of Forth. Enjoy the tranquillity and the stunning landscapes surrounding the village. Are you a bird enthusiast? This area along the river, as well as nearby Queensferry, is a popular spot for birdwatchers.
Exploring this part of Scotland by rental car
I’ve visited this region of Scotland several times to explore its beautiful sights, including many Outlander filming locations. If this sounds like something you’d enjoy, I highly recommend renting a car. Make sure to choose a rental with an all-in insurance package so you’re fully covered. That way, you won’t have to deal with additional insurance hassle when picking up the car, which saves a lot of stress and lets you hit the Scottish roads with peace of mind.
Where to stay in and around Culross
There are a few lovely accommodation options in Culross itself, but if you don’t necessarily want to stay in the village, there are also plenty of great places nearby. One of my personal favourites is Parkhead House in nearby Queensferry, a charming and cosy place to stay. From here, you can also walk straight to Midhope Castle, a must-visit if you’re a fan of Outlander.
