Balmoral Castle is the British royal family’s holiday residence in Scotland, United Kingdom. It is located in the council area of Aberdeenshire, 50 kilometers from Aberdeen. It is the main tourist attraction and economic driver of the region, receiving over 80,000 visitors each year, especially in spring and summer. In autumn, it is occupied by the royal family.
Balmoral Castle spans 20,000 hectares, divided among the Balmoral, Birkhall, Glen Doll, and Corgarff estates in the Grampian Mountains. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the facilities, rooms, exhibitions, and gardens, shop at the gift store or café, or participate in possible excursions to the surrounding mountains. Its grounds are partly composed of the Ballochbuie Forest, a designated Special Conservation Area (ZEC).
Natural Reserve and Incredible Views
Ballochbuie is one of the largest remaining continuous areas of native Caledonian forest. Approximately 20 hectares were purchased by Queen Victoria in 1878 for the conservation of indigenous forest mass. In 1979, Prince Consort Philip of Edinburgh personally oversaw the expansion work, increasing the original 20 hectares to 300 hectares.
Another 200 hectares of Balmoral Castle are cultivated and used for breeding Highland cattle, a native breed. An additional 200 hectares are dedicated to wildlife protection programs, particularly for red deer.
A Residence with History
Balmoral Castle became a royal residence in 1848 when Queen Victoria and Prince Albert purchased the land from the Farquharson family. They then hired architects to design new offices, cottages, and auxiliary buildings.
Queen Victoria and Prince Albert ordered the installation of a prefabricated iron house that served as a temporary ballroom and dining room, along with improvements to the estate’s buildings, gardens, and forest. As the royal family and their service expanded, a new house was built 90 meters northwest of the original building between 1853 and 1856. Upon completion, the old castle, which records indicate was erected in the late 14th century, was demolished.
The current building, classified as Category A and designed in the Scottish Baronial style, is constructed from granite from the local Invergelder quarries. It features two main wings, each with an inner courtyard, and houses a 24-meter-high clock tower topped with turrets.
The extensive gardens surrounding the castle are a natural beauty oasis, with flower beds, majestic trees, and picturesque paths inviting visitors to stroll and enjoy the tranquility of the environment. Outdoor enthusiasts can engage in activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching on the castle grounds and surrounding areas, making the visit an unforgettable experience.
Keep in mind that Balmoral Castle was the favorite holiday residence of Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom and also the place of her passing on September 8, 2022. Visiting it will be an enriching act.
