Introduction
Located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, Balmoral Castle is a popular tourist destination and the private residence of the British Royal Family. Built in 1848 by Queen Victoria and her beloved husband Prince Albert, Balmoral Castle has been the summer home of the Royal Family ever since. The castle and its grounds offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience a piece of British history and explore the beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
Why Visit Balmoral Castle?
Balmoral Castle is the perfect destination for anyone looking to explore the culture and history of Scotland. The castle itself is full of fascinating artifacts and exhibits, while the grounds boast stunning gardens and expansive parkland. With its breathtaking views, Balmoral Castle is the perfect place to spend an afternoon or even a few days exploring the area.
A Travel Guide to Visiting Balmoral Castle
If you’re planning a trip to Balmoral Castle, here’s what you need to know.
How to Get There
The easiest way to get to Balmoral Castle is by car. It’s located in the village of Crathie, which is just off the A93 road. If you’re coming from Aberdeen, it’s a two-hour drive. You can also take a bus or train from Aberdeen to Ballater and then take a taxi to the castle.
Hours and Admission
During the summer months, Balmoral Castle is open to visitors from April to July. During this time, the castle is open from 10am to 5pm, and admission is £7 for adults and £4 for children. Visitors are advised to book tickets in advance as the castle can get busy during peak times.
What to See and Do at Balmoral Castle
From exploring the gardens and grounds to visiting the museum and exhibitions, there’s plenty to see and do at Balmoral Castle.
Gardens and Grounds
The grounds of Balmoral Castle cover over 50,000 acres, making it one of the largest estates in Scotland. Visitors can explore the gardens and grounds, which include a lake, woodland walks, and scenic trails. The gardens are full of exotic plants and flowers, including rhododendrons, azaleas, and magnolias.
Exhibits and Attractions
The castle itself is home to a number of interesting exhibits and attractions, including a museum, art gallery, and library. The museum houses a collection of artifacts related to the history of the castle and the Royal Family. The art gallery features works by some of the most famous artists of the 19th century, including John Constable, Thomas Gainsborough, and JMW Turner. The library contains a selection of books on Scottish history, literature, and culture.
Exploring the Grounds of Balmoral Castle
In addition to the gardens and grounds, visitors can explore the surrounding countryside. The estate includes a number of lochs and rivers, as well as several hills and mountains. The nearby hills of Lochnagar, Morven, and Beinn a’ Ghlo provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The Gardens
The gardens of Balmoral Castle are full of exotic plants and flowers, from rhododendrons to azaleas. Visitors can explore the formal gardens, which were designed by Queen Victoria, or wander through the wildflower meadows and woodlands.
The Parkland
The parkland surrounding the castle is full of wildlife, including red deer, foxes, and badgers. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the grounds or enjoy a picnic in the park.
Inside Look at the History of Balmoral Castle
The history of Balmoral Castle is closely linked to the Royal Family. Queen Victoria and Prince Albert purchased the estate in 1852, and the castle was built between 1853 and 1860. Since then, the castle has been the summer home of the Royal Family and is still owned by the Queen today.
Queen Victoria and Prince Albert
Queen Victoria and Prince Albert had a profound impact on the castle. They commissioned the building of the castle, designed the gardens, and created many of the artworks that adorn the walls. Queen Victoria described Balmoral as “a little paradise” and wrote extensively about her visits to the castle in her diaries.
Royal Family Connections
The Royal Family still visits the castle each year. In recent years, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have taken their children to Balmoral to enjoy the fresh air and spectacular scenery. The castle is also host to a number of events, including garden parties and official receptions.
Take a Virtual Tour of Balmoral Castle
If you can’t make it to Balmoral Castle in person, you can still explore the castle and its grounds with a virtual tour. There are a number of different tours available, from guided audio tours to 360-degree views of the castle and grounds.
Various Tours Available
There are a variety of virtual tours available online, from interactive tours of the castle to guided audio tours. You can also take a virtual tour of the grounds, including the gardens and parkland.
Online Resources
The Balmoral website offers a wealth of information about the castle, including photos, videos, maps, and a virtual tour. There are also a number of online resources available, such as the National Trust for Scotland’s website, which provides detailed information about the history and architecture of the castle.
How to Plan an Unforgettable Trip to Balmoral Castle
Whether you’re visiting Balmoral Castle in person or taking a virtual tour, here’s how to make the most of your trip.
Accommodations
When planning a trip to Balmoral Castle, it’s important to consider where you’ll be staying. The village of Ballater is the closest town to the castle, and there are a number of hotels and bed and breakfasts located nearby. Alternatively, you can stay in Aberdeen, which is a two-hour drive away.
Dining Options
The village of Ballater has a number of restaurants and cafes, offering everything from traditional Scottish cuisine to international dishes. You can also enjoy afternoon tea at the castle cafe.
Local Attractions
The area around Balmoral Castle is full of attractions, from historic castles and museums to outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking. You can also visit the nearby towns of Braemar and Ballater, which both offer a variety of shops and restaurants.
Conclusion
Balmoral Castle is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the culture and history of Scotland. From exploring the gardens and grounds to visiting the museum and galleries, there’s plenty to see and do. And with its breathtaking views and royal connections, Balmoral Castle is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Summary of Things to See and Do
Visitors to Balmoral Castle can explore the gardens and grounds, visit the museum and galleries, wander through the parkland, and learn about the history of the castle. They can also take a virtual tour of the castle or visit the nearby towns of Braemar and Ballater.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Balmoral Castle
From its stunning views to its rich history, Balmoral Castle is an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re visiting in person or taking a virtual tour, you’re sure to leave with a greater appreciation of the culture and history of Scotland.
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