Game of Thrones and Outlander – the connections

Connections Between Game of Thrones and Outlander

Scotland’s stunning landscapes and historic architecture have provided the backdrop for many iconic TV series, including Game of Thrones (GoT) and Outlander. Although these two shows have distinct storylines and settings, they share several connections in terms of locations, actors, and overall influence.

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Shared Actors

While Game of Thrones and Outlander do not share a lot of actors, there are some notable overlaps:

1. Clive Russell: Russell portrayed Brynden Tully (the Blackfish) in GoT and had a role in Outlander as Simon Fraser, the elder Lovat. His commanding presence and portrayal of cunning characters link him to both productions.
2. Tobias Menzies: While Menzies is most famously associated with Outlander as both Frank Randall and Jonathan “Black Jack” Randall, his earlier work includes portraying Edmure Tully in GoT. His ability to embody vastly different characters showcases his versatility and makes him a notable connection between the two series. Game of Thrones and Outlander tours of Scotland
3. Diana Rigg (Indirect Connection): While Rigg (Lady Olenna Tyrell in GoT) did not appear in Outlander, her Avengers co-star Patrick Macnee is referenced as an inspiration by Outlander creator Diana Gabaldon. This tangential link connects the two series through shared influences in British acting history. To avoid booking fees for Outlander tours of Scotland you can make a booking by phone / WhatsApp on +447305294773 or contact us online .
4. Mark Lewis Jones played Tom Christie in Outlander and is known for his unique features and captivating performances, became a regular face in some of our top TV dramas, including Netflix’s The Crown, HBO’s Chernobyl, the popular series Game of Thrones, and Outlander.

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Filming Locations

Scotland has been a prime location for Outlander, while Game of Thrones came to Scotland once to film at the Scottish castle featured in five films and TV series :

1. Doune Castle: This historic castle in Stirling served as Castle Leoch in Outlander and also appeared in the Game of Thrones pilot as Winterfell. Although the latter series later used different locations for Winterfell, Doune Castle remains a shared visual link between the two. The Feast of Winterfell was filmed in the Great Hall at Doune Castle . Doune also featured in the films Monty Python and the Holy Grail, the Outlaw King and Mary, Queen of Scots . To avoid booking fees for Outlander tours of Scotland you can make a booking by phone / WhatsApp on +447305294773 or contact us online .
2. Scottish Highlands: While not explicitly featured in Game of Thrones, the rugged beauty of Scotland’s landscapes bears a striking resemblance to Westeros’ northern territories, such as the lands beyond the Wall and Winterfell. Both series heavily rely on dramatic natural scenery to evoke a sense of history and mysticism. Glencoe is featured in the opening sequence in Outlander in the early seasons.

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Cultural Influences and Themes

Both Outlander and Game of Thrones draw heavily from history, myth, and legend, some of which are rooted in Scottish heritage:
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• Outlander is steeped in Scottish culture, particularly during the Jacobite era, while Game of Thrones incorporates elements of Celtic, Norse, and medieval traditions, which are prevalent in Scotland.
• Both shows depict feuding clans and families, with Outlander exploring Highland clans and GoT featuring the rivalries of noble houses such as the Starks, Lannisters, and Baratheons.

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Fan Tourism

Both series have sparked fan interest in Scotland. Outlander enthusiasts flock to locations like Culloden Battlefield and Doune Castle, while GoT fans visit crossover sites or nearby filming hubs in Northern Ireland and beyond. The Outlander effect refers to the huge increase in visitors from the USA and around the world in visiting the film locations in Scotland . To avoid booking fees for Outlander tours of Scotland you can make a booking by phone / WhatsApp on +447305294773 or contact us online .

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While Game of Thrones and Outlander differ significantly in tone and narrative, their connections through shared actors, locations, and cultural influences highlight Scotland’s pivotal role in shaping fantasy and historical storytelling. Fans of both series continue to celebrate these ties through tourism and fandom culture.

Our top three tours at the moment are the  Dunnottar Castle Tour from Edinburgh , our Game of Thrones Scotland   and our  Braveheart Tour Scotland taking you to iconic locations associated with Scottish hero William Wallace