Balmoral Castle & Royal Deeside Day Trip

Discover the stunning landscapes of Scotland's interior on an engaging day trip from Aberdeen. Join us for a memorable exploration of the prestigious Balmoral Castle and the natural beauty of Royal Deeside.

Description

We will convene at a predefined time at the William Wallace statue in Aberdeen to begin our journey through Royal Deeside and to Balmoral Castle.

The adventure starts with a picturesque drive leading to Balmoral Castle, the beloved estate of the British royal family. During the ride, enjoy the rugged charm of the hills and mountains nestled along the River Dee. Be sure to take striking photographs before we arrive at the castle, immersing ourselves in its history dating back to the mid-1800s, when it became a cherished home for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.

Wander through the royal residence at your own rhythm, and appreciate the beauty of the Balmoral gardens, the grand ballroom, and the stunning views over Aberdeenshire. It’s clear why Balmoral held a special place in the heart of the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Once we depart from Balmoral, we will navigate through the scenic Cairngorm National Park, an iconic landmark in Scotland. A stop at the Gairnshields Bridge awaits us, a charming viaduct built in 1751 that arches over the Gairn River. Take a moment to marvel at the breathtaking Cairngorm Hills before we head to the Victorian village of Ballater, located in the core of Royal Deeside.

Here, you can enjoy a leisurely walk in this charming town and relish a scrumptious lunch at one of its cozy cafes. After our meal, we will set off again, passing the Cambus O'May Bridge. Our next destination is the ancient stone circle of Tomnavarie, a remarkable funerary site with a history exceeding 4500 years.

To wrap up our journey through Royal Deeside, we'll visit The Queen's View in the village of Tarland. Experience the spectacular views that left Queen Victoria in awe during her first encounter, and share in that unforgettable feeling.

Finally, our exploration concludes as we return to Aberdeen, wrapping up a fulfilling seven and a half hours of rich sightseeing.

Balmoral Castle opening dates

It's important to note that Balmoral Castle is closed in summer months to accommodate the royal family's visit. If your tour falls within this period, we will instead explore Braemar Castle, a historic stronghold linked to the Farquharson clan.