Is Birkhall open to the public?

Nearby is Birkhall where the late Queen Mother used to live but is now owned by Prince Charles and that is on the road to the Glen Muick Reserve which is owned by the Balmoral estate and is open to all. Birkhall is private but does allow very limited guided tours of the gardens.

Can the general public visit Balmoral?

Visit Balmoral

The grounds of Balmoral Castle are now closed to the public until October 2025.

Does Prince Charles own Birkhall?

Prince Albert acquired Birkhall that was originally built in 1715 on the Balmoral estate, to give to his eldest son, Prince Albert Edward who later became King Edward VII. In subsequent years it was used by the Duke and Duchess of York as a holiday home. Charles, Prince of Wales is the current owner.

Can you walk around the grounds of Balmoral?

During our autumn and winter opening you will be able to enjoy some of the walks around the grounds, and have an opportunity to visit the Mews Gift Shop and the Restaurant.

Can you visit Balmoral inside?

Which areas of the castle are open to the public? Within the General Admission ticket, the only room open to the public is the Ballroom where there is an exhibition. A limited number of exclusive Interior Castle Tour. During winter opening hours the ballroom is closed.

King Charles Offers Public a Peek Inside Balmoral For The First Time

Is Balmoral Castle open to the public in 2025?

From Wednesday 1st October 2025 we will be delighted to welcome visitors to Balmoral Castle and Estate again, with wonderful experiences for all. From a chance to explore the stunning gardens to strolling through the estate grounds and relaxing with a delicious coffee in hand.

Can you visit the pyramid at Balmoral?

The Balmoral Pyramid, also known as Prince Alberts Cairn, is a large memorial near Balmoral Castle in memory of Prince Albert. This structure is a popular site for tourists to visit whilst in the Cairngorms National Park due to the pleasant walk and fantastic views from the top.

How long do you need to visit Balmoral?

We recommend that you set aside at least one and a half hours for your visit to Balmoral, to give you time to visit the grounds, gardens, gift shop and the coffee shop. Balmoral is located off the A93 mid way between Ballater and Braemar.

What is the closest town to Balmoral Castle?

Ballater is the nearest town to Balmoral Castle, one of the residences of the Royal Family, which explains the many 'By Royal Appointment' signs that can be seen on local shops and business. Close by is Royal Lochnagar Distillery which produces one of Scotland's most exclusive whiskies.

Can you visit Birkhall?

Nearby is Birkhall where the late Queen Mother used to live but is now owned by Prince Charles and that is on the road to the Glen Muick Reserve which is owned by the Balmoral estate and is open to all. Birkhall is private but does allow very limited guided tours of the gardens.

How many homes are on the Balmoral Estate?

There are approximately 150 buildings on the estate, including Birkhall, formerly home to Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, where King Charles III and Queen Camilla spent their honeymoon in 2005.

Who now owns Highgrove?

As Highgrove House is part of the Duchy of Cornwall estate, it is owned by Prince William.

Who owns Birkhall in Scotland?

“A Royal Connection”

The name refers to a huge estate and mansion house in Scotland: 'Birkhall' is probably best known as the home of the late Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother in Aberdeenshire. It is now owned by the Duke and Duchess of Rothesay (the Scottish identities of the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall).

What is the best castle to visit in Scotland?

What months is Balmoral open?

Balmoral Castle is open to visitors during the summer months, from April to July. 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.

Is Balmoral general admission worth it?

Well worth a visit! We had a lovely few hours there with friends but the admission prices are extortionate for what you get. General admission, £18.50 gets you into the grounds and only one room in the castle which was relatively small and stuffy not what you think of when they say Ballroom.

What is the best village near Balmoral?

BALLATER. Surrounded by the Cairngorms in the heart of Royal Deeside, Ballater is a charming Victorian village that sparkles when the mist comes in over the mountains. The closest village to Balmoral Castle, many of the shops and boutiques in the town proudly display their 'By Royal Appointment' signs.

Can you do a tour of Balmoral?

For the first time since 1856, experience the grandeur and heritage of Balmoral Castle with an interior guided tour, led by our experienced and knowledgeable guides. This unforgettable experience takes you through a selection of beautiful rooms within the Castle, offering an up-close look at Royal life.

What are the cairns for in Balmoral?

Tucked deep in the woods of Balmoral, the Scottish royal estate beloved by Queen Victoria, lie 11 little-known memorial cairns – including one massive granite pyramid. Built to commemorate royal milestones and loss, they tell a quiet story of love, grief and nation building.

Who lives in Balmoral Castle now?

Nestled in the wilds of the Scottish Highlands, Balmoral Castle has held a fond place in the hearts of the British Royal Family for generations. King Charles III personally owns the estate and has long served as a summer residence, offering a private retreat for the royals to unwind away from the spotlight.

Does the king still go to Balmoral Castle?

King Charles, 76, has continued his mother's tradition of spending some of the late summer at Balmoral since his accession. Prince William and Kate Middleton usually visit with their three children — Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7 — as well as other royals.

Is Sandringham open to the public?

House and Gardens open 10am-5pm April - October. See the website for the most up to date opening times. The Children's Play Area in the Royal Park is open all year (tickets are not needed to visit but car parking charges apply).

How long is the journey from Aberdeen to Balmoral?

Yes, the driving distance between Aberdeen to Balmoral Castle is 52 miles. It takes approximately 1h 15m to drive from Aberdeen to Balmoral Castle.

What is the dress code for the afternoon tea at Balmoral Castle?

I just made a reservation for my husband and me to enjoy afternoon tea at Palm Court. The dress code says "smart casual," and I am interpreting that to mean a neat, well put together style - not joggers or torn jeans.