Balmoral & Royal Deeside Tour
Ballater, GB
97% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Explore the stunning Balmoral Castle and estate
- Experience the charm of the Victorian village of Ballater
- Cross the iconic Cambus O'May suspension bridge
- Discover the ancient Tomnaverie Stone Circle
- Visit the unique Migvie Kirk with its carved stone chairs
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Duration 7 hours 30 minutes
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Small Group Tour
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WiFi on board
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Expert English Guide
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Visit Balmoral Estate & Crathes Castle
Embark on a breathtaking journey through the stunning landscapes of Royal Deeside with the Balmoral & Royal Deeside Tour. Starting from Aberdeen, you'll trace the majestic river Dee to Balmoral, the treasured family home of generations of Royals. Walk in the footsteps of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert as you explore the beautiful estate with its captivating views of hills and mountains, fields of heather, and the flowing river. Immerse yourself in the charm of the Victorian village of Ballater, where you can indulge in local food and drink and admire the Royal Warrants displayed on the shops. Experience the rich ancient culture of the Picts as you visit the Cambus O'May suspension bridge, Tomnavarie Stone Circle, and Migvie Kirk. Finally, be awe-struck by Queen Victoria's favorite views of Aberdeenshire at the Queen's View before returning to Aberdeen. Don't miss this extraordinary tour that unveils the beauty and history of Royal Deeside.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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7 hours 30 minutes
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Embark on a scenic journey to Balmoral and Royal Deeside, exploring royal heritage and stunning landscapes in the heart of Scotland.
Included
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Wifi on board
Excluded
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Lunch -
Gratuities
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Entries & tour fees
Meeting Point
Next to the William Wallace Statue in front of His Majesty's Theatre on Rosemount Viaduct. (AB10 1NP)
Union Terrace, Aberdeen AB10 1NP , United Kingdom
End Point
Next to the William Wallace Statue in front of His Majesty's Theatre on Rosemount Viaduct. (AB10 1NP)
Union Terrace, Aberdeen AB10 1NP , United Kingdom
What to expect
Balmoral Castle
*Balmoral Castle & Estate is closed from the 12th of August until the 1st of October 24. This tour stop will be changed to the National Trust for Scotland's- Crathes Castle thereafter. Balmoral is a treasured family home for the Royal family since 1850, when Queen Victoria and Prince Albert chose this beautiful region to create their great escape. A landscape with stunning views of the hills and mountains, fields of heather and the majestic river Dee that flows through it. The estate was the late Queen Elizabeth's private country retreat in Scotland and a beloved home. King Charles III has a great affection for the castle and grounds and often spends time walking through the estate. We highly recommend listening to the audio tour. The audio will share stories and guides you around the estate. The Ballroom is only room open to visitors within the Castle. The objects in the Ballroom are from within the Castle, and are all objects that belong to the Royal Family.
120 minutes
Admission Not Included
Ballater
The Victorian village of Ballater sits in the heart of Royal Deeside, at the eastern gateway to the Cairngorms National Park, making it one of Scotland’s most scenic visitor spots. A stroll around the village reveals an interesting range of specialty shops and good selection of restaurants and cafes to enjoy some of the local food & drink. Notice the shops which display Royal Warrants on their store fronts, a sure sign of quality and support from the Royal family. Sitting alongside the river Dee and surrounded by hills and mountains, Ballater is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Be sure to visit the beautiful Victorian Railway Station and the tourist information centre which has more information about the village. Walk past the Victorian Barracks, still in use, when the Royal family are staying in Balmoral.
60 minutes
Cambus O' May Suspension Bridge
The Cambus O' May suspension bridge spans the river Dee and is a legacy from the estate of Alexander Gordon. Built in 1905, the footbridge is 50 m long and carries visitors to the other side. The Deeside Way, a trail following the former Deeside Railway, passes the north-eastern end of the bridge. Footpaths from the bridge lead to Torphantrick wood and the Muir of Dinnet nature reserve, popular spots for visitors who enjoy woodland walks and wild swimming in the river.
20 minutes
Tomnaverie Stone Circle
Tomnaverie is a recumbent stone circle, a kind of monument found only in north-eastern Scotland. Their characteristic feature is a large stone on its side, flanked by two upright stones, usually on the south or south-west arc of the circle. The stone circle surrounds a burial cairn dating to about 4,500 years ago. Relatively little is known about why we have these structures, there are several theories which you’ll discover on your visit.
30 minutes
The Barn - Multi - Arts Centre
Just outside Tarland is the Queen's View, reportedly one of Queen Victoria's favourite views over the Howe of Cromar towards Lochnagar. We will stop to admire the view and on a good day, where you can see 12 different hills and Munros!
15 minutes
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller -
Service animals allowed
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Participants should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What our experts say
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Try local delicacies in Ballater's cafes. -
Bring a camera for breathtaking views!
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Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
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Visit the Victorian Railway Station.
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Check if the suspension bridge is open.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Welcome to the Balmoral & Royal Deeside Tour, a journey that takes you through the stunning landscapes and rich history of Aberdeen and its surrounding areas. Starting from Aberdeen, you'll have the chance to walk in the footsteps of generations of Royals who have called the Balmoral estate home. Immerse yourself in the charm of the Victorian village of Ballater and explore its local heritage, including the Victorian train station and breathtaking views of the area.What to expect?
During this tour, you can expect to be captivated by the beauty and tranquility of the Balmoral estate. Admire the stunning views of hills, mountains, and fields of heather, while learning about the royal heritage that envelops the area. Explore the only room open to visitors within Balmoral Castle, the Ballroom, and discover objects that belong to the Royal Family. Indulge in a stroll around Ballater, one of Scotland's most scenic visitor spots, and enjoy its specialty shops and delightful cafes. Cross the iconic Cambus O'May suspension bridge, and let your footsteps guide you to the Tomnaverie Stone Circle and Migvie Kirk, where you'll unravel the mysteries of ancient Pictish culture. Finish your journey with a stop at Queen Victoria's favorite views of Aberdeenshire, where breathtaking scenery awaits.Who is this for?
This tour is for anyone seeking an enchanting experience, immersed in the beauty of nature and rich in history. Whether you're a history enthusiast looking to uncover the secrets of Balmoral's past, a nature lover yearning for scenic landscapes and peaceful walks, or a traveler wanting to explore the beauty of Royal Deeside, this tour is a perfect fit. It caters to all ages and interests, providing an unforgettable experience for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.Why book this?
This Balmoral & Royal Deeside Tour offers a unique opportunity to step into the world of royalty and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Scottish countryside. Explore the grounds of Balmoral, a cherished family home for the Royal family, and discover the stories and history that make it truly special. From the picturesque Victorian village of Ballater to the ancient stone circle of Tomnaverie and the deconsecrated beauty of Migvie Kirk, this tour presents a diverse range of experiences that will leave you captivated. With the guidance of knowledgeable local experts, you'll gain insights into the rich culture and heritage of each location, creating memories that will last a lifetime.Good to know
Please note that when Balmoral Castle closes for the season, Crathes Castle will be substituted as a stop on the tour. The tour has a duration of approximately 450 minutes and commences at the William Wallace Statue in front of His Majesty's Theatre. Inclusions and exclusions can be further discussed with the tour operator. Be prepared to embrace the Scottish weather, as it can be unpredictable, and wear comfortable walking shoes to fully enjoy the tour.Reviews
Feedback from individuals who have embarked on this journey highlights the awe-inspiring beauty of the landscapes, the knowledgeable and friendly guides, and the immersive experience of exploring royal history. Visitors have praised the tour for its excellent organization and the unique insights they gained into the lives of the Royals and the rich cultural heritage of the region. Many have expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to visit Balmoral, Ballater, and other picturesque locations, describing their experiences as truly unforgettable. Come and join us on this journey that promises to take you on a captivating adventure through the heart of Scotland's royal history and natural beauty.
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