Royal Deeside: Balmoral Estate & Crathes Castle

Start your day with a visit to Balmoral Castle, the summer residence of the British Royal Family, where you’ll tour its stunning gardens and grounds. Then, discover the charming Victorian village of Ballater, renowned for its royal connections and quaint shops.Next, step back in time at the Tomnaverie Stone Circle, a fascinating Neolithic monument set against panoramic countryside views. Conclude your tour at the magnificent Crathes Castle, where you’ll marvel at its historic interiors and wander through its vibrant walled gardens. With breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage, this tour showcases the best of northeast Scotland.

Info: The Royal’s treasured highland home
Balmoral Castle is the private Scottish residence of the British Royal Family, acquired by Queen Victoria in 1852. The estate offers a unique opportunity to explore its rich history and stunning surroundings.
Guests can tour the beautifully landscaped gardens, which feature vibrant flowerbeds and a kitchen garden. Inside the castle, the ballroom is open to visitors, showcasing exhibitions and royal artifacts. Spanning 50,000 acres, the estate is a haven for nature lovers, with woodlands, rivers, and scenic trails offering breathtaking views of the Cairngorms.
We highly recommend listening to the audio tour. The audio will share stories and guides you around the estate. The Ballroom is only room open to visitors within the Castle. The objects in the Ballroom are from within the Castle, and are all objects that belong to the Royal Family.

Info: Victorian Charm
Royal Deeside, is a picturesque region famed for its royal connections, stunning landscapes, and charming villages. Flanked by the River Dee and nestled in the Cairngorms National Park.
At the heart of Royal Deeside is Ballater, a delightful Victorian village known for its ties to the British Royal Family. Just a short distance from Balmoral Castle, Ballater boasts royal warrants displayed on shops and businesses, reflecting its long history of serving the monarchy. Visitors can enjoy quaint tearooms, boutique shops, and the Ballater Old Royal Station, which has been transformed into a visitor center showcasing the area's rich heritage.
Whether exploring royal history, soaking in natural beauty, or enjoying the warm hospitality, Royal Deeside and Ballater offer a quintessential Scottish experience.

Info: Tomnaverie Stone Circle is a fascinating ancient monument located near Tarland in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. This well-preserved recumbent stone circle, dating back to the Neolithic period (around 4,000 years ago), offers visitors a glimpse into Scotland’s prehistoric past.
The site is unique to this region and features a large horizontal "recumbent" stone flanked by two upright stones, forming a striking focal point. Archaeologists believe it was used for ceremonial or astronomical purposes, possibly aligning with lunar or solar cycles.
Set on a hilltop, Tomnaverie provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the Howe of Cromar and Mount Keen in the Cairngorms. Its peaceful atmosphere and scenic location make it a perfect stop. This hidden gem offers an authentic taste of Scotland’s ancient heritage.

Info: Crathes Castle, located near Banchory in Aberdeenshire, is a stunning 16th-century tower house surrounded by exquisite gardens. This National Trust for Scotland property is known for its fairytale-like appearance, with turrets, intricate interiors, and painted ceilings that offer a glimpse into its rich history. Visitors can explore its many rooms, filled with period furnishings and family treasures, as well as learn about the Burnett family, who lived there for generations.
The castle’s walled gardens are a true highlight, featuring vibrant flowerbeds, sculpted hedges, and themed areas that change with the seasons. Beyond the gardens, the wider estate offers woodland trails, a café, and a shop. With its charm, history, and stunning natural surroundings, Crathes Castle is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the northeast of Scotland.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

William Wallace Statue, Union Terrace, Aberdeen, United Kingdom