Balmoral Castle & Royal Deeside Day Trip

Experience the beauty of Scotland's inland landscapes on a day trip from Aberdeen, exploring Balmoral Castle and Royal Deeside.

Description

Meet at the William Wallace statue in Aberdeen at the designated time to begin the tour of Royal Deeside and Balmoral Castle.

The journey starts with a scenic drive to Balmoral Castle, the fortress of the British royal family. Enjoy the views of hills and mountains along the River Dee before reaching the castle, learning about its history connected to Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.

Explore the royal residence at your own pace, including the Balmoral gardens, grand ballroom, and notable Aberdeenshire views. Afterward, proceed through Cairngorm National Park, stopping at Gairnshields Bridge, a viaduct from 1751, and enjoying the Cairngorm Hills. Visit the Victorian village of Ballater for a leisurely stroll and a lunch break at a local café.

Continue to the ancient stone circle of Tomnavarie, a funerary monument over 4500 years old. Your tour concludes at The Queen's View in Tarland, a site that inspired Queen Victoria on her first visit.

Return to Aberdeen after a total of seven and a half hours of sightseeing.

Balmoral Castle opening dates

Balmoral Castle is closed in summer for the royal family. If booked during these months, the tour will visit Braemar Castle instead.