Culross, just across the Firth of Forth from South Queensferry, was transformed into Cranesmuir for Outlander — the village where Claire meets Geillis Duncan, and where the series first reveals its darker political undercurrents. From the Mercat Cross and palace courtyard to the eerie West Kirk, this Fife village became one of the show’s most recognisable filming locations. It’s easy to explore on foot, packed with 17th-century architecture, and ideal for fans looking to step straight into the world of Claire and Jamie.
Mercat Cross & Village Square
The cobbled square in front of Culross’s Mercat Cross was transformed into Cranesmuir — Geillis Duncan’s home village. It’s here Claire watches a boy punished in public and where townsfolk gather for judgment. The setting was used without major alteration, making it one of the most recognisable filming locations in all of Outlander.
Culross’s town square remains almost unchanged from the 1600s — a rare example of a Scottish royal burgh preserved in full. Located just across the Forth from South Queensferry, the square and surrounding lanes make for a rich historical visit beyond the screen. It’s walkable, photogenic, and perfect for a short day trip from Edinburgh or the cruise port.
Culross Palace & Courtyard
Culross Palace’s ochre walls and crow-stepped gables served as the backdrop to several Outlander scenes. Most notably, it doubled as Geillis Duncan’s home, and its courtyard and upper rooms appeared in multiple Cranesmuir episodes.
Culross Palace is one of Scotland’s finest surviving merchant houses, with intact 17th-century interiors and original painted ceilings. Easily reached from Queensferry, it offers visitors a chance to see both real Scottish heritage and on-screen locations in one stop. The palace is managed by the National Trust for Scotland and open seasonally.
Palace Gardens & Herb Beds
Claire’s herb garden scenes were filmed in the raised beds behind Culross Palace. The tiered terraces and medicinal plants still grow today, and fans will instantly recognise the stone steps where Claire gathered herbs and tended to the ill.
The palace garden is one of the few in Scotland reconstructed using 17th-century planting records. Visitors can explore historic medicinal beds and native species while standing in one of the show’s most serene filming spots — all just a short trip from South Queensferry or Dunfermline.
Jetty View Toward the Village
This view — looking back at Culross from the Forth — was used as an establishing shot of Cranesmuir. It shows how little the town has changed, its rooftops and chimneys rising above the harbour as they did centuries ago.
Culross’s setting on the northern shore of the Firth of Forth makes it an ideal partner stop when exploring from Queensferry. Whether arriving by car or looking for a quieter village beyond Edinburgh, this angle shows why filmmakers return here again and again.
Culross Backstreets
Culross is one of the best-preserved 17th-century villages in Scotland — and it shows. From its ochre-washed palace to its cobbled streets and untouched shoreline, Culross needed almost no set dressing to become Cranesmuir in Outlander. The National Trust village is steeped in authentic period detail, making it the perfect filming location for scenes involving Claire, Geillis, and the town’s eerie superstitions.
Built on the back of trade and salt production, Culross once thrived as a merchant town along the Firth of Forth. Today, its layered rooftops, gabled windows, and medicinal gardens offer a rare glimpse into life as it was in the 1600s. That real history — visible on every doorstep — is what makes Culross not just a filming location, but a place that truly feels lived in.
West Kirk (Black Kirk in Outlander)
Just outside the town, West Kirk appeared as the Black Kirk — a ruined chapel where villagers believed dark forces lingered. Claire visits it with Jamie, uncovering the truth behind the illness haunting Cranesmuir. The real kirk is still atmospheric, surrounded by trees and time.
Though slightly off the main path, West Kirk adds depth to any visit to Culross. For fans or history seekers, it completes the filming trail — and is easily included in a loop trip from Queensferry. Paths may be muddy, but the mood is unforgettable.
Where Next?
Outlander Locations in Edinburgh
Follow Claire’s journey into the heart of the city with Outlander filming locations in Edinburgh – including Jamie’s print shop at Bakehouse Close, Craigmillar Castle as Ardsmuir Prison, and royal interiors at the Palace of Holyroodhouse. These sites are just a short ride from Queensferry and easy to explore on foot.
Outlander Locations near Queensferry
Want to visit Lallybroch, Fort William, and the Duke of Sandringham’s estate? These Outlander locations near South Queensferry – including Midhope Castle, Blackness Castle, and Hopetoun House — are all within 15 minutes of the cruise port.
Things to Do in South Queensferry
There’s more to see beyond the show. Browse our full guide to things to do in South Queensferry – from historic pubs and bridge viewpoints to hidden local walks and day-trip inspiration for every kind of visitor.
Culross Palace Herb garden niki.L, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons.
Picture: Culross Mercat Cross Phillip Capper, CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons.
Scott grew up in South Queensferry and knows the town like the back of his hand. He writes practical travel guides based on lived experience — tender days, cruise traffic, shortcuts into Edinburgh, local food spots, and the quirks only residents notice. His articles focus on clear directions, accurate timings, and grounded advice for visitors exploring Queensferry and the east of Scotland.