Balmoral Castle

Balmoral Castle is the private Scottish residence of the British Royal Family, set in 50,000 acres of Royal Deeside. The castle and grounds are open to the public when the Royal Family is not in residence. The formal gardens, exhibitions in the castle ballroom, and the wider estate walks offer a fascinating glimpse into royal life in the Highlands. Queen Victoria described it as her 'dear paradise' and the Royal Family has spent every summer here since.

History

Queen Victoria and Prince Albert first leased the estate in 1848 and purchased it in 1852. Albert commissioned Aberdeen architect William Smith to design a new castle in Scottish baronial style, completed in 1856. The old castle was subsequently demolished. Balmoral has been the private property of the Royal Family ever since – it is not a Crown estate – and every monarch since Victoria has cherished it.

Visiting Balmoral Castle

The grounds and gardens are open seasonally, typically from April to the end of July – the castle closes when the Royal Family arrives for their summer residence. The ballroom contains exhibitions of royal memorabilia. Estate walks and Land Rover safaris are available. Crathie is about 50 miles west of Aberdeen on the A93.

Highlights

• The Royal Family's private Scottish home since 1852
• 50,000-acre Highland estate on Royal Deeside
• Formal gardens and estate walks open to the public
• Described by Queen Victoria as 'my dear paradise'

Private tours including Balmoral Castle

We can include Balmoral Castle in a private tour with a dedicated driver-guide and luxury Mercedes vehicle. Pick-up from your hotel, airport or cruise port.

Frequently asked questions

Can you visit Balmoral Castle?

The grounds and gardens are open seasonally, typically from April to the end of July – the castle closes when the Royal Family arrives for their summer residence. The ballroom contains exhibitions of royal memorabilia. Estate walks and Land Rover safaris are available. Crathie is about 50 miles west of Aberdeen on the A93.

When was Balmoral Castle built?

Balmoral Castle dates from 1856 (current building). It is classified as a royal residence, scottish baronial and is located in Crathie, Royal Deeside.

How do I get to Balmoral Castle?

Balmoral Castle is in Crathie, Royal Deeside, Royal Deeside. We offer private tours that include Balmoral Castle with door-to-door transport in a luxury Mercedes vehicle with a dedicated driver-guide.