Introduction to Outlander

The Outlander series, based on Diana Gabaldon’s books, has been a massive hit since its announcement in 2013. The show, which airs on the US cable network Starz, follows the story of Claire Randall, a time-traveling nurse, and Jamie Fraser, a Scottish warrior. The series has not only gained a huge following but has also had a significant impact on Scotland’s tourism industry.

The Outlander Effect

The show’s success has led to what is known as the "Outlander effect," where fans of the show visit Scotland to see the locations where the series was filmed. According to Jenni Steele, manager for film and creative industry for Visit Scotland, "It has romance, it has slaughter, it has culture. It is Gaelic, it has music, it has food and drinks and the mystery and the puzzles that people who try to change through different time zones and periods in history." The show’s unique blend of history, culture, and romance has made it a huge hit, and its impact on Scotland’s tourism industry has been significant.

Fan Base

The show has a dedicated fan base, with fans from all over the world visiting Scotland to see the locations where the series was filmed. The fans, known as "Outlanders," are passionate about the show and its characters. There are even fan groups dedicated to individual characters, such as the "Heughligans" for Sam Heughan, who plays Jamie Fraser, and "Balfever" for Caitriona Balfe, who plays Claire Randall.

Scottish Culture

The show has also had an impact on Scottish culture, with many fans interested in learning more about the country’s history and traditions. The Badenoch Waulking Group, which demonstrates the traditional Scottish practice of waulking, has seen an increase in interest since the show featured the tradition in its opening sequence. The group’s members, Elizabeth Thomson, Sheila Mackay, and Maureen Caddon, are passionate about keeping the tradition alive and have collected over a hundred songs that they sing while demonstrating waulking.

The Power of Music

The group’s music has an emotional impact on its audience, with many people brought to tears by the songs. According to Sheila Mackay, "We see so many people in tears when we sing, especially from the pond. I think part of it has Outlander, but it’s also about keeping culture going, which does not happen in many areas." The show’s use of traditional Scottish music has helped to keep the culture alive and has introduced it to a new audience.

The Future of Outlander

The eighth and final season of Outlander has already been filmed, and the last episode is set to be released next year. However, the story is far from over, with a new prequel series, Blood of My Blood, set to be released. The prequel, which follows the parents of Jamie Fraser and Claire Randall, is set in 18th-century Scotland and World War I France. According to Jenni Steele, the prequel is expected to increase visits to Scotland, with many fans eager to see the locations where the series was filmed.

Tourism Boost

The Outlander series has had a significant impact on Scotland’s tourism industry, with many fans visiting the country to see the locations where the series was filmed. According to recent visitor surveys, around 30% of international visitors are inspired to come to Scotland after seeing the country in film and television, with Outlander playing a major role in this. The show’s success has helped to promote Scotland’s economy, with many businesses benefiting from the increase in tourism. As Jenni Steele noted, "There is a real love for the series and of course it continues in Scotland, which promotes the economy, it helps in locations and helps us to present Scotland."