From Outlander to Chariots of Fire: Filming Locations Near Woodside Luxury Lodges

From Outlander to Chariots of Fire: Filming Locations Near Woodside Luxury Lodges

From iconic Oscar-winning films to some of the world’s biggest TV dramas, the landscapes surrounding Woodside Luxury Lodges have helped put this part of Scotland on screen for audiences around the world. 

From historic villages and castles to sweeping beaches and dramatic coastline, these filming locations are all within easy reach of the park and are just one of the many reasons St Andrews and the surrounding area remain such a sought-after place to own a luxury lodge.

 

West Sands Beach, St Andrews

Featured in: Chariots of Fire
Approx. 10 minutes from Woodside

Perhaps the most iconic filming location in the area, West Sands Beach became world-famous thanks to the unforgettable opening sequence of Chariots of Fire.

The vast stretch of sand, rolling dunes and open coastline perfectly capture the natural beauty that makes St Andrews so unique. Even today, it still feels every bit as dramatic and atmospheric as it did on screen.

Combined with views towards the Old Course and the historic town skyline, it’s easy to see why this part of the coastline continues to attract visitors, photographers and filmmakers alike.

 

St Andrews Town Centre & University

Featured in: The Crown
Approx. 10 minutes from Woodside

With its historic stone buildings, cobbled streets and instantly recognisable university architecture, St Andrews has a timeless quality that naturally lends itself to television and film.

Most recently, parts of the town featured in The Crown, recreating scenes from Prince William and Kate Middleton’s university years.

The blend of coastal scenery, history and culture is part of what gives St Andrews its reputation as one of Scotland’s most desirable destinations, not just to visit, but to spend more time in throughout the year.

 

Falkland

Featured in: Outlander
Approx. 35 minutes from Woodside

The picturesque village of Falkland became one of the standout locations in Outlander, transforming into 1940s Inverness throughout the series.

Its beautifully preserved buildings, traditional village square and historic charm make it feel almost untouched by time, which is exactly what made it such a perfect filming location.

Places like Falkland are part of what makes Fife so special. Around almost every corner, there’s another village, harbour or hidden stretch of countryside that feels worthy of the screen.

 

Dysart Harbour, Kirkcaldy

Featured in: Outlander
Approx. 35 minutes from Woodside

Dysart Harbour offered a completely different backdrop for Outlander, doubling as the French port of Le Havre during Season 2.

With colourful waterfront buildings, rugged coastline and sweeping sea views, the harbour showcases another side of Fife’s landscape and character.

The east coast of Scotland has an understated beauty to it, and locations like this are a reminder of why so many people fall in love with the area after spending time here.

 

Culross

Featured in: Outlander
Approx. 40 minutes from Woodside

Culross is often described as one of Scotland’s most beautiful villages and it’s easy to understand why filmmakers continue to use it.

The cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings and centuries-old architecture create a setting that barely feels touched by modern life. In Outlander, it became the fictional village of Cranesmuir.

It’s these kinds of places that give the region so much character and make exploring the surrounding area feel endlessly rewarding for lodge owners.

 

Aberdour Castle

Featured in: Outlander
Approx. 40 minutes from Woodside

One of Scotland’s oldest stone castles, Aberdour Castle appeared in Outlander as a monastery in France.

Surrounded by gardens, coastal scenery and historic ruins, it’s another example of the rich history woven throughout this part of Scotland.

Owning a holiday home close to places like this is part of what makes ownership near St Andrews feel so unique. There’s a real sense of heritage, scenery and atmosphere throughout the entire region.

 

Why St Andrews Continues to Capture Attention

From internationally recognised beaches to historic villages and dramatic coastline, it’s no surprise filmmakers continue to return to Fife year after year.

For owners at Woodside Luxury Lodges, these landscapes aren’t just somewhere to visit on holiday, they become part of the lifestyle that comes with owning in one of Scotland’s most iconic and visually stunning regions.

If, like us, you love this corner of the world, you will love Woodside Luxury Lodges. Explore ownership today.