Exploring the Majestic Braemar Castle
Discover the rich history and stunning views at Braemar Castle, a must-visit landmark in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Nestled in the stunning Scottish Highlands, Braemar Castle is a historic gem that offers visitors a glimpse into Scotland's regal past. With its picturesque surroundings and rich history, it is a must-see for any traveler in the region.
A brief summary to Braemar Castle
- Ballater, Braemar, AB35 5XR, GB
- +441339741219
- Visit website
Local tips
- Plan your visit on a weekday for a quieter experience, as weekends can be quite busy.
- Check the castle's website for any special events or guided tours that may enhance your experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will want to explore both the castle and its beautiful grounds.
- Consider visiting during the spring or summer to enjoy the gardens in full bloom.
Getting There
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Car
From any point in Banffshire, head towards the A93 road, which is the main route to Braemar. Follow the A93 northbound for approximately 22 miles. You will pass through stunning landscapes and small villages along the way. As you approach Braemar, look for signs directing you to the castle, which is located just off the main road. You can park in the designated parking area near the castle.
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Public Transportation
If you prefer public transportation, you can take a bus from Ballater or Aboyne to Braemar. The bus service is operated by Stagecoach, and you can check the schedule on their website or at local bus stations. The journey takes about 30 minutes, and the bus will drop you off in the village of Braemar. From the bus stop, it's a short walk (approximately 0.5 miles) to Braemar Castle, following signs towards the castle. Make sure to check the return bus times to avoid getting stranded.
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Walking
If you are already in Braemar, walking to Braemar Castle is a pleasant option. From the village center, head northeast on the A93, and look for the sign for the castle. The walk is approximately 15 minutes and offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and countryside. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the pathway may be uneven in some areas.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, consider hiring a taxi from nearby towns such as Ballater or Aboyne. Taxi services are available in these towns, and the fare to Braemar Castle should be around £15-£20, depending on your starting point. This is a convenient option if you have luggage or prefer not to drive.
Discover more about Braemar Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Airlie Monument
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Scott Wilson Memorial
38.3 km
A powerful granite tribute to Antarctic explorers Captain Scott and Dr Edward Wilson, set in the peaceful hills of Glen Prosen near Kirriemuir.
Atholl Palace Hotel
40.1 km
Historic Victorian elegance meets Highland tranquility at Atholl Palace Hotel, a luxurious retreat in the heart of Pitlochry.
Clunie Memorial Arch
40.7 km
A solemn stone arch in Perth and Kinross honoring the men who sacrificed their lives building one of the UK's largest water tunnels.
Dunfallandy Stone
41.5 km
A 1,200-year-old Pictish cross-slab revealing ancient artistry and the clash of pagan and Christian worlds.
Kincardine O'Neil Auld Kirk
44.1 km
Explore the evocative medieval ruins of Kincardine O'Neil Auld Kirk, a historic Scottish landmark steeped in centuries of religious and local heritage.
Soldiers Head
45.4 km
Discover Soldiers Head near Inverness, a natural Highland landmark steeped in history and local legend, offering stunning views and cultural significance.
Centre of Scotland Stone
47.6 km
Discover the symbolic heart of mainland Scotland marked by a majestic stone set amidst the tranquil Highlands near Newtonmore.
Dunkeld Cathedral
51.4 km
Discover the architectural grandeur and serene beauty of Dunkeld Cathedral, a celebrated landmark of Scotland's rich ecclesiastical heritage.
Dunkeld Bridge
51.5 km
Historic Thomas Telford-designed stone bridge gracefully spanning the River Tay, linking Dunkeld’s rich heritage with Highland landscapes.
Birnam Oak
51.6 km
An ancient oak on the banks of the River Tay, believed to be the last survivor of Shakespeare’s Birnam Wood – a living piece of Scottish and literary history.
Restenneth Priory
52.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Restenneth Priory in Forfar, a captivating destination that reveals Scotland's rich monastic heritage.
Pine Cone Point
52.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of Pine Cone Point in Dunkeld, a scenic haven perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Balmashanner Monument
52.4 km
A solemn Scottish Baronial tower honoring Forfar’s WWI heroes with breathtaking views over Angus countryside.
The Hermitage
52.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of The Hermitage, a national forest in Scotland, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Braemar Chocolate Shop
1.1 km
Discover handmade Scottish chocolates crafted with passion in the heart of Braemar village, Cairngorms National Park.
McLean Of Braemar
1.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and local crafts in the heart of Braemar’s scenic Royal Deeside at McLean Of Braemar.
Braemar Highland Games Centre
1.3 km
Explore Scotland’s Highland Games heritage and royal connections at the stunning Braemar Highland Games Centre in the Duke of Rothesay Pavilion.
Balmoral Castle
10.2 km
Explore Balmoral Castle, the Scottish Highland home of the British Royal Family, where royal heritage meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Cairngorms National Park
11.0 km
Explore the UK’s largest national park, where rugged mountains, ancient forests, and rich Highland heritage create an unforgettable wilderness adventure.
Crathie, Suspension Bridge
11.1 km
Discover the stunning Crathie Suspension Bridge, a picturesque landmark over the River Dee, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Devil’s Elbow Viewpoint
16.7 km
Experience the iconic double hairpin bends and sweeping Highland panoramas at Devil’s Elbow Viewpoint in Glenshee.
Corgarff Castle
19.0 km
A remote 16th-century fortress in the Cairngorms, Corgarff Castle reveals Scotland’s fierce clan battles, Jacobite struggles, and whisky smuggling tales.
Corrie Fee
19.6 km
A breathtaking glacial amphitheatre in Scotland’s Cairngorms, rich in rare alpine flora and dramatic natural beauty.
Cairngorm Mountain
21.5 km
Scotland's premier mountain resort where winter skiing meets year-round Highland adventure in the heart of the Cairngorms.
Loch Morlich
25.2 km
A stunning freshwater loch with a sandy beach, nestled beneath the Cairngorm Mountains, offering watersports, walking trails, and breathtaking Highland scenery.
Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve
28.2 km
Discover Scotland’s enchanting Muir of Dinnet, where ancient geology meets tranquil woodlands and rich wildlife in a captivating natural mosaic.
Invermark Castle
30.9 km
A towering 16th-century Scottish tower house guarding Glen Esk’s wild beauty with historic strength and dramatic mountain views.
Rothiemurchus
31.4 km
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Little Landys, Rothiemurchus
31.4 km
Thrilling off-road driving for kids aged 6-11 on a safe, purpose-built 4x4 track in the heart of Rothiemurchus, Aviemore.
Essential places to dine
The Clunie Dining Room
1.1 km
Elegant Scottish fine dining with wood-fired flavors and striking contemporary art in the heart of Braemar’s Cairngorms.
Ptarmigan Restaurant
19.6 km
Dine at the UK’s highest restaurant with panoramic Highland views and hearty local fare atop Cairngorm Mountain.
Cairngorm Cafe
21.4 km
Cozy café nestled in Cairngorm Mountain ski area serving hearty seasonal food with stunning Highland views year-round.
Coylumbridge Hotel
30.7 km
Family-friendly resort nestled in the Cairngorms with pools, adventure parks, and Highland charm for all ages.
The Old Bridge Inn
32.5 km
A cozy Highland gastro pub on the River Spey, blending hearty local fare, live music, and warm hospitality in Aviemore.
Happy Haggis
32.6 km
Aviemore’s cherished family-run spot serving crispy, delicious fish and chips with warm, friendly service since 1974.
Macduis Speyside Inn Catering Ltd
32.7 km
A welcoming Highland pub in Aviemore serving hearty comfort food with a famously dog-friendly atmosphere and attentive service.
The Winking Owl, Craft Ale Pub & Bar
33.1 km
Discover the charm of The Winking Owl in Aviemore – your go-to spot for craft ales and delightful cuisine amidst stunning Scottish landscapes.
The Boathouse Restaurant Loch Insh
34.0 km
Charming Highland dining with stunning Loch Insh views and hearty Scottish fare at the heart of the Cairngorms outdoor centre.
Andersons Restaurant
34.2 km
Cozy and intimate dining in Boat of Garten, blending bistro charm with Scottish flavors for memorable family and special occasions.
Killiecrankie House
38.1 km
Award-winning fine dining and luxury bedrooms in a contemporary Scottish country house.
The Loft Restaurant
38.7 km
Experience warm hospitality and fresh Scottish flavors in the scenic Cairngorms at The Loft Restaurant, Blair Atholl’s beloved dining spot.
Kildrummy Inn
39.3 km
Luxurious Scottish country inn blending Victorian charm, gourmet dining, and warm hospitality in a tranquil Aberdeenshire setting.
Victoria's Restaurant
40.5 km
A long-standing family-run eatery in Pitlochry, blending a relaxed coffee house by day with a chic bistro by evening, serving Scottish, British and Italian comfort food in a warm, open-fire setting.
Fern Cottage Restaurant
40.5 km
A cozy stone cottage in Pitlochry serving Scottish classics with a Mediterranean twist, plus a separate vegan menu and warm, attentive service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Horn Shop
1.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish horn crafts and souvenirs in the heart of Braemar’s charming Highland village.
The Highlander
1.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs and local crafts at The Highlander in Braemar - a must-visit shop for every traveler.
Braes O'Mar Gift Shop
1.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Braemar’s scenic Highlands village.
Balmoral Castle Shop
10.3 km
Discover exquisite royal souvenirs and handcrafted treasures at Balmoral Castle Shop, set in a charming Victorian stable in scenic Aberdeenshire.
The Shop At The Top
19.6 km
Discover unique Highland crafts and outdoor gear at The Shop At The Top, a charming Aviemore destination nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms.
The Whisky Castle & Highland Market
26.3 km
Discover a century-old whisky treasure trove in Tomintoul, where Scotland’s finest malts meet warm Highland hospitality.
Balliefurth Farm Shop
32.2 km
Highland heritage meets artisan quality in Scotland's Cairngorms—a family-run butcher and farm shop since 1948.
Aviemore Gift Company
32.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and local crafts in Aviemore’s largest and most welcoming souvenir shop.
Ellis Brigham - Aviemore
32.8 km
Your expert outfitter for skiing, climbing, hiking, and outdoor adventure in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park.
Mountain Warehouse
32.8 km
Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment store in Aviemore for quality gear and expert advice in the heart of the Highlands.
Young's Auld Sweetie Shop
32.9 km
Nostalgic confectionery haven where vintage glass jars and pick-and-mix treasures await in the heart of Aviemore.
Nevisport
32.9 km
Your expert outfitter for top-quality outdoor gear and advice in the heart of Cairngorm National Park, Aviemore.
Trespass Aviemore
33.0 km
Essential outdoor clothing and equipment in Aviemore, perfect for exploring the Scottish Highlands year-round.
Cairngorm Mountain Sports
33.0 km
Your trusted outdoor sports shop in Aviemore, offering expert gear for alpine touring, climbing, skiing, and Nordic adventures year-round.
Blacks
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Your essential outfitter for outdoor adventures in Aviemore, offering expert gear and advice for exploring the Scottish Highlands.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Elsa's Bar
1.1 km
A stylish cocktail bar blending Scottish spirits and Art Deco charm in Braemar’s iconic Fife Arms hotel.
Farquharsons Bar and Kitchen
1.1 km
Cozy gastropub in Braemar offering classic Scottish fare, pet-friendly charm, and a warm Highland welcome in the heart of Cairngorms National Park.
The Flying Stag
1.1 km
A vibrant Scottish pub in Braemar blending local heritage, hearty cuisine, and unique art in the heart of the Cairngorms.
Bertie's Bar
1.1 km
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The Drawing Room
1.1 km
An elegant Victorian-style lounge in Braemar blending world-class art, Highland hospitality, and refined afternoon tea experiences.
The Pine Marten Bar
25.1 km
Cozy alpine-style bar in Glenmore offering local ales, hearty food, live music, and a warm welcome near Loch Morlich.
Steading Bar
29.0 km
Cozy Highland bar with a superb whisky selection and warm hospitality nestled in Strathdon’s scenic Lonach Hotel.
Woodshed Bar
30.6 km
A cozy log cabin bar in Aviemore offering local ales, crafted cocktails, and a warm Highland atmosphere with occasional live music.
The Aviemore Inn pub and grill
32.4 km
Cozy Highland pub in Aviemore Holiday Park serving hearty home-cooked meals and live music in a warm, family-friendly setting.
Mambos
32.8 km
Lively Aviemore bar and eatery with diverse menu, friendly vibe, and vibrant nightlife on Grampian Road in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Cairngorm Hotel
32.8 km
Experience warm Scottish hospitality and cozy charm in Aviemore’s Cairngorm Hotel, your gateway to the Highlands.
Skiing Doo
33.0 km
A beloved Aviemore bar and restaurant known for hearty British fare and friendly vibes, now closed but fondly remembered.
the Balavoulin
33.1 km
A cosy Highland pub and guesthouse in Aviemore offering hearty food, local drinks, and comfortable rooms in a warm, welcoming setting.
The Boat Country Inn & Restaurant
34.0 km
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SUIE BAR
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Vault
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The Gig
47.3 km
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Royal Night Club
51.2 km
Vibrant nightlife and lively DJ nights in the heart of Forfar’s historic Royal Hotel, complete with rooftop terrace and buzzing bar scene.
Utopia Nightclub Montrose
65.7 km
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Dundemo
66.5 km
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Private Eyes
66.5 km
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Pout Bar and Nightclub
66.5 km
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Afro Beats
66.5 km
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OUT Nightclub
66.5 km
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Club Tropicana & Venga
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Step into Dundee’s ultimate 80s nightclub for nostalgic beats, vibrant dance floors, and unforgettable retro nights at Club Tropicana & Venga.
AURA Nightclub
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Dundee’s vibrant AURA Nightclub pulses with chart hits, themed parties, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Fat Sams
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Rewind dundee
66.7 km
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Underground
66.8 km
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Decades Bar & Nightclub
66.9 km
Step back in time with Decades Bar & Nightclub, Dundee’s vibrant retro hotspot playing the best hits from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.
