The castle was built in the 14th century as the seat of Sir William Drummond. The area had previously served King Robert II as a hunting ground. In the aftermath, …

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erwinsikkens_com

August 4, 2025

Hiking

This famous summer residence of the British royal family can only be visited during spring and early summer with an entrance ticket through the main entrance. This provides access to the castle gardens and the castle ballroom, where a different exhibition is held each year. There is also a café and a gift shop.

Since 2025, a few tickets per day have also been available for enthusiasts to visit the castle's private apartments in small groups, including the room where Queen Elizabeth II's last photograph was taken. Very special, but also highly sought-after and expensive.

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Daniela

January 29, 2015

Hiking

One of the residences of the Royal Family since 1852, the castle is built in the Scottish Baronial style. The castle gardens and the ballroom are open to the public between April and July.

Routes here

Best routes to Balmoral Castle

4.7

(15)

hikers

1. Princess Beatrice's Cairn – Balmoral Castle loop from Crathie

8.14km

02:19

170m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

5.0

(2)

hikers

2. Balmoral Castle – River Dee loop from Crathie

4.74km

01:15

40m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

4.9

(7)

hikers

3. Balmoral Castle – Balmoral Bridge loop from Crathie

3.32km

00:53

30m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

Details

Weather

Today

Tuesday 3 March

9°C

-1°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 6.0 km/h

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Take Me There

Location: Ballater And Crathie, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, United Kingdom

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J. Justice Suspension Bridge, Balmoral

Cairn Bannoch

Balmoral Castle

1. Princess Beatrice's Cairn – Balmoral Castle loop from Crathie

2. Balmoral Castle – River Dee loop from Crathie

3. Balmoral Castle – Balmoral Bridge loop from Crathie

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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