Balmoral Castle
Balmoral Castle: A Scottish Royal Residence
Balmoral Castle is a stunning Scottish castle located in Aberdeenshire. The castle is a popular tourist attraction and has been a favorite residence of the British Royal Family since Queen Victoria and Prince Albert purchased it in 1852. It also was the summer retreat of our late monarch, Queen Elizabeth II.
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What to See at Balmoral Castle
Visitors to Balmoral Castle can explore the Castle Ballroom, which is open to the public during the summer months. This is a beautifully decorated room which currently has an exhibition of His Majesty the King’s watercolor paintings. Visitors can also take a stroll around the beautiful gardens and woodland trails, which are home to a variety of flora and fauna.
The Balmoral Estate has grown over time, with successive members of the royal family expanding its boundaries. Today, it sprawls across approximately 50,000 acres (20,000 hectares) of land, making it a dynamic working estate encompassing grouse moors, thriving forestry, productive farmland, and carefully managed herds of deer, Highland cattle, sheep, and ponies.
History of Balmoral Castle
The story of Balmoral's royal legacy traces back to 1852 when Prince Albert, the beloved husband of Queen Victoria, acquired the estate along with its original castle from the Farquharson family. Shortly thereafter, it became evident that the existing house could no longer accommodate the royal family's needs, prompting the commissioning of the current Balmoral Castle.
This architectural masterpiece was brought to life through the skilled craftsmanship of William Smith from Aberdeen, with Prince Albert's personal touch on the designs. It's worth noting that Balmoral remains the private property of the reigning monarch and is not part of the Crown Estate. Throughout the years, it has served as a cherished summer residence, most recently by Queen Elizabeth II, who peacefully passed away there on September 8, 2022.
Plan Your Visit
Balmoral’s grounds, gardens and exhibitions usually open to visitors from spring into summer, and guided tours of some castle rooms run on set dates. Visitors can purchase tickets online or at the entrance on the day of their visit. There is also a gift shop on the premises, which sells souvenirs, books, and local produce.
Admission fees
Ticket prices change each year: check the official Balmoral Castle website for current prices
Opening Hours
Opening dates and times change each year, so check before you go
For autumn opening times, please check the website
Balmoral Castle is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the history and culture of Scotland.
From its rich history and stunning architecture to its extensive art collections and beautiful gardens, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this magnificent Scottish castle.
