Films and TV shows filmed in Inverness

On location: Inverness and the Scottish Highlands

With our dramatic landscapes, the Scottish Highlands has seen its fair share of film and TV productions. So today, we’re taking a look at some of the biggest and best movies and shows set in or inspired by the Highlands. Walk in the footsteps of your favourite stars with our guide to film and TV locations in Inverness and the surrounding area.

Outlander (2014 – )

The spell-binding Scottish Highlands provides the setting for the time travel romance, Outlander. Starting out as a series of novels, the story was then adapted for TV. There are so many Outlander locations on our doorstep, from the ancient sites that inspired the books, to places used for filming. The Clava Cairns, Culloden Battlefield, Fort George, Castle Leod and Urquhart Castle should all be on your list. Take a look at our Outlander locations guide for more!

Disney/Pixar’s Brave (2012)

Brave is the magical tale of Merida, a Scottish princess who discovers the meaning of true bravery. Although this is an animation set in the fictional kingdom of DunBroch, the filmmakers were influenced by beautiful landscapes and historic sites in the Scottish Highlands, such as the ruins of Urquhart Castle and the forests of Glen Affric.

Harry Potter (2001-2011)

Author, J.K. Rowling, wrote most of the Harry Potter books in Scotland and took inspiration from around her. Furthermore, she has said that she always imagined Hogwarts, the magical school where the story is set, to be in Scottish Highlands. So in the films, the Glenfinnan Viaduct became part of the route the Hogwarts Express took to get here. There are several Harry Potter tours that start in Inverness and will take you to see the viaduct, or even over it by train.

So, book your stay at the Kingsmills Hotel in Inverness and visit these great film and TV locations for yourself. You can also find more filming locations to explore on the VisitScotland Film and TV Sets guide.