Set in the time of the Jacobite Uprising of 1745, Outlander is a ten-volume series written by American author, Diana Gabaldon. It follows the trials and tribulations of a fictitious Clan Mackenzie and residents of Castle Leoch, the façade of which is based upon Castle Leod. The story focuses on a 20th century nurse, Claire Randall, who travels back in time to 18th century Scotland, meeting Highland warriors, Jacobite activists and members of the clan.

With equal measures of romance, action and adventure, the novels and subsequent TV series have proved popular with audiences worldwide. Gabaldon even suggested Castle Leod as the filming location. Many Outlander fans visit Castle Leod to walk the grounds and see for themselves what inspired the author; it offers an opportunity to soak up real Clan Mackenzie history and informs the subject matter of these exciting stories. Gabaldon's books have brought people from all around the globe to experience their own Highland adventure.

Now, as a Guardian of Castle Leod, her entry onto the ‘Guardians' Shield’ is displayed at the entrance to the Castle along with others who’ve committed to investing in its ongoing restoration. Sam Heughan and Graham McTavish, who play Jamie Fraser and Dougal Mackenzie in the TV series, are Guardians, too. Gabaldon has also planted a Rowan tree in the grounds so her love of this Castle is clear to see. If you join our woodland walk, our guides will point out the tree and its commemorative plaque.

Author, EH Bernard became so involved in her research for the Sisters of Castle Leod that she thought Sibell Mackenzie had visited her from beyond the grave to tell her that she must be the narrator of the story rather than her sister, Constance.  Bernard became obsessed with her subjects, as any historical fiction writer must be, and delved deep into the lives of the Countess of Cromartie and Lady Constance. 

What she found were two unique women, both with strong minds and both with the courage of their convictions. However, it was their differences and the potential tension created by them that inspired the author to examine, imagine and extrapolate what the relationship between the sisters might’ve been like.

EH Bernard visited Castle Leod many times before she committed her ideas to the novel. She is pictured below with the 5th Earl of Cromartie and clan chief, John Mackenzie.

SG MacLean was born in Inverness and grew up hearing stories of the Battle of Culloden. She resisted writing about the Jacobite Uprising for many years before eventually penning The Bookseller of Inverness.

Set in the aftermath of the battle, it follows Iain MacGillivray, a Jacobite left for dead on the battlefield who survives and builds a new life as the owner of a bookshop, hence the novel’s name. He lives a quiet life for many years until a stranger is found dead with the knife that killed him laid out with a white cockade -the most recognisable symbol of the Jacobites. 

A tale of intrigue and adventure that is heavy on suspense, MacLean used the escape tunnels underneath Castle Leod as a backdrop for part of the action. They really do exist!

Main photo by Ed Miller - © 2014 Sony Pictures Television