The diverse landscapes, picturesque villages and urban town centres provide an abundance of spectacular filming locations in Scotland. Steeped in culture and history with unforgettable scenery, it’s easy to see why Scotland has become a firm favourite amongst location scouts, directors and production companies around the world.
From period dramas to blockbuster action films, Scotland’s unspoilt wilderness and ancient architecture have long played a starring role in a number of productions. Journey into other worlds as we take a look at some of the best known film locations in Scotland.
Glenfinnan Viaduct
The Glenfinnan Viaduct has become a true icon in the Scottish landscape, famously featuring in the Harry Potter films. A staple in British filmmaking, it’s hard to forget the shot of the Hogwarts Express crossing this ancient stone viaduct.
While the Hogwarts Express is simply a work of fiction, the Jacobite Steam Train runs from Fort Williams to Mallaig, passing over this world famous railway infrastructure on the way. This 84 mile round journey is nothing short of spectacular, and if you’re lucky, the train will pause on the viaduct for you to take in the magnificent view. 
Quiraing
In the northernmost peninsula of the Isle of Skye, in the area known as Trotternish, Is one of the Scottish Highlands’ most unforgettable landscapes. Formed by an ancient landslip, it is easy to see why film makers have been inspired and influenced by the otherworldly landscape of the Quiraing.
The Quiraing provided the perfect backdrop from the 2015 adaptation of William Shakespeare’s darkest play, Macbeth. This dramatic landscape has influenced a number of filmmakers, with Snow White and the Huntsman, Transformers: The Last Night, King Arthur: Legend of the Sword and many more filming scenes at the Quiraing.
Glencoe
Glencoe comes up time and time again in film and tv, and for good reason. Located in the heart of the Highlands, Glencoe is Scottish wilderness at its best. Its breathtaking combination of wild volcanic mountains and dramatic valleys have provided spectacular backdrops for a number of productions.
The 2021 action packed Skyfall used Glencoe and nearby Glen Etive as the setting for James Bond’s ancestral home. Glencoe has also left its mark on Harry Potter, Braveheart, Rob Roy, The 39 Steps and Mary Queen of Scots to name a few.
Eilean Donan Castle
Scotland is home to more than a thousand castles, yet few are quite as recognisable as Eilean Donan Castle. Featuring prominently in the 1986 film Highlander, Eilean Donan Castle became the home of the Clan MacLeod Situated on a small tidal island where three great sea lochs meet, Eilean Donan Castle has taken centre stage in countless films, such as The New Avengers, Loch Ness and The World is Not Enough.
Glen Nevis
Braveheart has become synonymous with Scotland, which was partly filmed in the valley of Glen Nevis. This picturesque glen sits at the foot of the UK’s highest mountain Ben Nevis, with native Caledonian pines scattered across this untouched landscape marking the primeval wilderness.
Glen Nevis has become a popular filming location in Scotland for period productions plus the Scottish classics Highlander and Rob Roy, as well as providing scenery for two Harry Potter movies.
Old Man of Storr
There are few locations more cinematic than the Old Man of Storr. Situated in the Trotternish, close by to the Quiraing, the Old Man of Storr is a 160 ft tall pinnacle punctuating the landscape. Seen for miles around, this rock formation has provided an atmospheric, otherworldly scenery for films such as Prometheus and The Wicker Man
Step into the silver screen
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If you’re feeling inspired by Scotland’s landscape for your next film, our dedicated flight managers are on hand to arrange multi-destination shoots or to fly your crew and equipment worldwide.
Contact the jetlogic team today who’ll take care of all your private charter needs, meaning you can sit back and get lost in the world of film.
