Balmoral Castle is a private residence of the British Royal Family located in Royal Deeside, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, famously serving as the summer retreat for the late Queen Elizabeth II and now King Charles III. Purchased by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria in 1852, the current castle was completed in 1856 in the Scottish Baronial style. In 2026, the estate has entered a new era of accessibility under King Charles III, offering unprecedented interior guided tours of the private royal rooms during specific spring and summer windows. Unlike many other royal palaces, Balmoral is the private property of the monarch and is not part of the Crown Estate, allowing for a more intimate glimpse into the family’s preferred holiday lifestyle amidst 50,000 acres of Highland scenery.
The History of Balmoral
The story of Balmoral began in 1848 when Queen Victoria and Prince Albert first leased the property. They found the air so restorative and the landscape so reminiscent of the German Thuringian forest that Albert purchased the estate outright for £31,500 in 1852.
Because the original castle was deemed too small for the Royal Family’s growing household, a new castle was commissioned. Designed by architect William Smith and refined by Prince Albert himself, the current structure was built using local granite and features a 100-foot-tall clock tower that remains a landmark of Deeside.
2026 Visitor Opening Dates
In 2026, Balmoral has expanded its seasonal calendar to accommodate higher public interest. The estate typically follows a three-season opening pattern to balance public access with the Royal Family’s private residence periods.
Winter/Spring Walks: Selected dates from late January until late March (grounds only).
Main Summer Season: Open daily from April 1, 2026, to August 10, 2026.
Autumn Opening: Selected dates from October through December.
During the main summer season, the grounds, gardens, and exhibitions are open from 10:00 to 17:00, with the last recommended admission at 16:30.
Exclusive Interior Castle Tours
A major development for 2026 is the continuation of the exclusive interior guided tours. Previously, the public was only permitted to see the Ballroom, but King Charles III has opened several private rooms for small, guided groups.
These tours are restricted to 12 people per group and must be booked well in advance through the official website. Visitors can expect to see the grand entrance hall, the dining room, and several drawing rooms that reflect the personal tastes of the Royal Family from the Victorian era to the present day.
Exploring the Balmoral Grounds
The estate covers approximately 50,000 acres (20,000 hectares) of diverse Scottish terrain. It is a working estate that includes grouse moors, managed forestry, and farmland, as well as the famous Highland cattle and ponies.
The Formal Gardens
The gardens were significantly expanded by Prince Albert and later Queen Mary. Today, they feature a large kitchen garden, a Victorian conservatory, and a formal sunken garden. In 2026, visitors can see the newly redeveloped garden areas commissioned by King Charles III to enhance biodiversity and floral displays.
The Estate Pyramids
One of the more unique features of the grounds is the collection of stone cairns. The most famous is the Prince Albert’s Cairn, a massive stone pyramid erected by Queen Victoria following his death in 1861. It requires a moderate uphill hike but offers one of the best panoramic views of the entire estate.
How to Get There
By Car: Balmoral is located off the A93, about 50 miles west of Aberdeen and 60 miles north of Perth. Parking is available at the Crathie car park for a small fee (approx. £5).
By Bus: The Stagecoach 201 service runs from Aberdeen directly to Crathie, taking roughly 2 hours. This is a scenic route through the heart of Royal Deeside.
By Air: The nearest international airport is Aberdeen (ABZ), which is roughly a 75-minute drive from the castle.
Tips for Visitors
Dress for Weather: The Highland weather is notoriously unpredictable. Even in July, waterproof jackets and sturdy walking shoes are highly recommended.
Booking: For 2026, it is strongly advised to book all tickets online in advance to avoid disappointment, as daily capacities are strictly managed.
Dog Policy: Dogs are welcome on the grounds but must be kept on a lead at all times.
FAQs
Can you go inside Balmoral Castle in 2026?
Yes, for the 2026 season, there are limited interior guided tours available for purchase. General admission, however, only includes the grounds and the Ballroom.
Is Balmoral Castle part of the Crown Estate?
No, Balmoral is the private property of the King, inherited from Queen Elizabeth II. It is not managed by the Crown Estate or open to the public year-round.
Where did Queen Elizabeth II die?
Queen Elizabeth II passed away at Balmoral Castle on September 8, 2022, a place she famously described as her “happy place.”
Who owns Balmoral Castle now?
The castle is currently owned by King Charles III, who took ownership following the passing of his mother.
Is there a dress code for visiting Balmoral?
There is no formal dress code for tourists, but comfortable outdoor clothing and walking shoes are essential given the estate’s size and terrain.
Are the Royal Family at Balmoral when it is open to the public?
Generally, the castle is open to the public only when the Royal Family is not in residence. They usually arrive for their summer holiday in mid-August, at which point the castle closes to visitors.
Can you take photos inside the castle?
Photography and filming are strictly prohibited inside the castle and the Ballroom exhibition to maintain security and privacy.
How long does it take to tour Balmoral?
Most visitors spend between 1.5 to 3 hours exploring the grounds, gardens, and the mews exhibition.
Is there a cafe at Balmoral?
Yes, the Pipers Hall Cafe and the newly refurbished restaurant offer a variety of locally sourced Scottish dishes, including light lunches and afternoon tea.
Can you stay at Balmoral?
Yes, the estate offers several self-catering holiday cottages that can be booked throughout the year, except when the Royal Family is in residence.
What is Crathie Kirk?
Crathie Kirk is the small parish church located just across the river from the castle where the Royal Family worships every Sunday while staying at Balmoral.
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