For the very first time, you can explore the interiors of Balmoral Castle

With its 167 rooms and magnificent grounds, Balmoral Castle has historically been shielded from the public gaze, but now it is open to visitors for the first time ever.

Located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, Balmoral Castle is a cherished residence of the British royal family. Queen Elizabeth II loved the castle so much that she spent nearly every summer there, even passing away within its walls in September 2022.

For the first time ever, Balmoral Castle welcomes the public for tours until August 11. Royal enthusiasts quickly snapped up the 100 British pounds ($130) tickets for the interior tour when they became available; fortunately, the 17.50 pound ($22.60) general admission tickets for the estate, gardens, and exhibition are still up for grabs.

Within the grounds, you can stroll through the stunning estate where Prince Philip proposed to the queen, enjoy the breathtaking views of the castle where Princes William and Harry learned about their mother Princess Diana's passing, explore King Charles' flower gardens, and admire the ballroom where royal celebrations take place.

How to get there

Reaching the castle's remote location requires some effort.

For those flying into Scotland, your first stop should be Aberdeen International Airport (ABZ) before heading to the highlands. Balmoral Castle lies about 80 kilometers (50 miles) west of Aberdeen, nestled among stunning hills with views fit for royalty. A taxi ride will cost around 120 pounds ($155), so unless you're ready to splurge, renting a car for the day may be a smarter choice. The one-hour-and-20-minute drive through the picturesque Scottish countryside is a journey worth taking.

Alternatively, public transport is an option, but it can take up to three hours and involve several transfers. The best choice we discovered is the 201 Ballater bus from Union Square, which will take you to Golf Road; from there, you'll need to switch to the 203 Braemar bus. This bus stops near the parking area at Balmoral Estate.

However, keep in mind that daily bus services are limited, so it's important to plan your journey carefully and adhere to a timetable if you opt for this route.

You can also take part in guided day trips from Aberdeen via booking platforms like GetYourGuide. These tours typically include stops at delightful locations such as the quaint village of Ballater and Cairngorms National Park, along with the Balmoral estate itself. However, the time allocated for visiting Balmoral Castle is usually limited to just two hours, which may leave you feeling a bit hurried. Additionally, when booking a tour, be aware that the entrance fee to Balmoral Castle may sometimes need to be purchased separately.

If possible, it's advisable to arrange your own transportation to the castle so you can maximize your exploration time. Arriving early in the morning is recommended, as the grounds are extensive, requiring a full day to fully appreciate them.

It's advisable to spend the night in Aberdeen before your visit. The city center offers many budget-friendly accommodations, along with hotels where you can use points. Consider using Hilton Honors points at Hilton Aberdeen TECA, or redeeming Marriott Bonvoy points for a stay at Aloft Aberdeen TECA.

What can you expect inside?

Balmoral Castle boasts a rich history, having hosted numerous significant royal events over the years. If you have a passion for history, we suggest obtaining the audio guide to enhance your experience. The castle has served as the Scottish residence of the royal family since Prince Albert acquired it for Queen Victoria in 1852, so there’s a wealth of history to explore.

Once you gain access to the grounds, you have the freedom to explore the estate at your own pace. The audiobook is an excellent companion for self-guided tours.

Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing plenty of walking. The stroll from the gates to the castle takes about 20 minutes, and there are numerous scenic countryside paths to enjoy in addition to your visit to the castle.

Tour highlights include the exhibition in the ballroom, showcasing iconic gowns of the royals and offering insights into the estate's significance (though no photos are allowed). You'll also enjoy stunning views of the castle from the lovely garden and have lunch in a regal setting.

Near the castle, there's a visitor café that offers scones, sandwiches, tea, coffee, and cakes at surprisingly reasonable prices; I spent 8.25 pounds ($10.66) on a scone and cappuccino. Adjacent to the café is a gift shop well worth a visit.

Key Takeaway

For the first time ever, Balmoral Castle is now open to the public. Guests can explore the same rooms and grounds as the British royal family while discovering the site's rich history and heritage. Tickets for tours are available now through the Balmoral Castle website.