Search Hotels Near Balmoral Castle, Ballater

Top reasons to visit Balmoral Castle

• Stunning Gardens: Explore the beautifully maintained gardens surrounding Balmoral Castle, offering a serene escape.
• Guided Tours: Participate in informative guided tours to learn about the castle's rich history and royal connections.
• Scenic Walks: Enjoy waymarked trails that showcase the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish countryside.
• Local Wildlife: Witness the diverse wildlife that inhabits the picturesque grounds of Balmoral.
• Charming Ballater: Visit the nearby village of Ballater, filled with delightful boutiques and local culture.

Find great hotels near Balmoral Castle

Discover a range of charming accommodation options near Balmoral Castle, perfect for every traveller. From luxurious lodges to family-friendly hotels, you’ll find places that cater to your needs, including pet-friendly options and adventure-focused stays. Whether you seek the best hotels or the closest lodgings, your perfect getaway awaits amidst the stunning Scottish landscape.

• Hilton Grand Vacations Club Craigendarroch Suites Scotland: A charming 3.5-star retreat with a guest rating of 9.0, Hilton Grand Vacations Club Craigendarroch Suites Scotland is perfect for those seeking a spa-themed getaway. Located 9.7km from Balmoral Castle, this property offers a full-service spa, complete with massage therapies, a hot tub, sauna, and an onsite spa for ultimate relaxation. Guests can also enjoy the inviting pool area, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to unwind in a serene setting.
• Balmoral Arms: With a 4-star rating and a guest rating of 8.6, Balmoral Arms is ideally suited for pet lovers, welcoming pets on the premises. Situated 11.3km from Balmoral Castle, this property features amenities such as food and water bowls, a pet-friendly policy, and a welcoming atmosphere for dogs and service animals. The combination of comfort and hospitality ensures that both you and your furry companion enjoy a delightful stay.
• The Commercial Hotel: This 3-star hotel boasts a remarkable guest rating of 9.4 and is located 24.1km from Balmoral Castle. The Commercial Hotel is the ideal choice for adventurous travellers, offering a range of exciting recreational activities nearby including rock climbing, mountain biking, fishing, waterskiing, and horse riding. Its vibrant atmosphere and proximity to adventure sports make it a perfect base for those looking to explore the great outdoors.

Where to stay near Balmoral Castle

Exploring the area around Balmoral Castle offers a delightful mix of friendly locals, scenic beauty, and rich history. Visitors can wander through charming boutiques in nearby Ballater, enjoy relaxing summer holidays in the picturesque surroundings, and partake in excursions to discover the area's historical significance. Whether you're seeking family-friendly activities or tranquil spots to unwind, this region provides an inviting atmosphere for every type of traveller.

• Ballater: Nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, Ballater is a charming village that serves as a gateway to the stunning Scottish Highlands. With Balmoral Castle at its doorstep, visitors flock here year-round to indulge in outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery. Popular activities include skiing and golfing, with the lush landscapes providing a perfect backdrop for exploration. The village boasts an array of local attractions, including picturesque parks and historical sites, making it an ideal base for a Scottish getaway.
• Braemar: Just 11.3km from Balmoral Castle, Braemar is a delightful village known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant outdoor culture. With visitor numbers peaking during the summer months, it offers an array of activities such as skiing and golfing amidst the dramatic landscapes of the Cairngorms. This quaint village is surrounded by majestic mountains and lush valleys, providing ample opportunities for hiking and sightseeing. Key attractions include the nearby national parks and the historic Braemar Castle, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
• Crathie: Located in close proximity to Balmoral Castle, Crathie is a picturesque village that captures the essence of Scottish culture and romance. With a peak in visitors during the spring and summer, it offers a unique blend of adventure and cultural experiences. The village is well-known for its ski fields and local shopping areas, providing a charming atmosphere for a leisurely day out. Local landmarks, including the historic castle and the sprawling national park, invite exploration and appreciation of the region's rich heritage and stunning scenery.

Things to do near Balmoral Castle

While visiting Balmoral Castle, immerse yourself in its stunning gardens and take part in the guided tours available to the public. Explore scenic waymarked walks that showcase the area's breathtaking landscapes, and if you're feeling adventurous, consider skiing opportunities nearby. Don't miss the chance to witness the local wildlife that thrives in this picturesque setting, making your visit to Balmoral Castle truly memorable.

Shopping

Balmoral Castle offers a quaint shopping experience with local shops in Ballater, where you can find unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, located 67.6km away, featuring an array of shops and cultural attractions in a vibrant setting.

Recreation

At Dufftown Golf Course, just 45.1km from Balmoral Castle, enjoy a luxurious golfing experience surrounded by picturesque landscapes. The private club offers a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst the stunning Scottish countryside.

Adventure

Explore the stunning gardens at Balmoral Castle, perfect for a leisurely stroll amid beautiful scenery. For adventure, consider hiking the surrounding hills for breathtaking views or try cycling along the scenic routes. Don't miss the chance to spot local wildlife while immersing yourself in nature.

Nightlife

In Ballater, the local pubs offer a cosy atmosphere with traditional Scottish music and hearty ales. The Prince of Wales Bar is a popular spot for evening drinks, while the nearby Ballater Golf Club occasionally hosts social events for a more laid-back vibe among the beautiful surroundings.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Balmoral Castle

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Balmoral Castle are February to March and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Balmoral Castle is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Balmoral Castle is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Balmoral Castle is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will reveal sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To discover the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Balmoral Castle with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Balmoral Castle

When visiting Balmoral Castle, you'll find an array of attractions including the castle itself, stunning mountains, and cosy lodges. The area offers a blend of culture, picturesque scenery, and outdoor activities, perfect for all types of travellers. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the castle and its grounds, discover local points of interest, and consider staying at one of the top hotels nearby for a delightful experience.

• Braemar Castle: Located 11.3km from Balmoral Castle, this enchanting fortress exudes culture and romance. Its picturesque setting and historical significance make it a perfect spot for a leisurely exploration of Scotland's rich heritage.
• Lochnagar: A mere 9.7km away, Lochnagar is a breathtaking mountain offering stunning scenery and exhilarating outdoor adventures. Its rugged terrain and diverse wildlife provide ample opportunities for hiking and photography enthusiasts.
• Mar Lodge Estate: Situated 17.7km from Balmoral, Mar Lodge Estate boasts a welcoming atmosphere ideal for families. Engage in outdoor activities or simply relax amid the stunning natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands.

Best time to go to Balmoral Castle

The best time to visit Balmoral Castle is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	33.3°F (0.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	34.3°F (1.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	37.2°F (2.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
April	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	46.8°F (8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
July	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	50.5°F (10.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
October	44.8°F (7.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	38.7°F (3.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	34.3°F (1.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Balmoral Castle

To visit Balmoral Castle, you can fly into three major airports: EDInburgh (EDI), Aberdeen (ABZ), and INVerness (INV). Edinburgh Airport is 122.3km away, with nearby hotels such as Crescent House and Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, both 11.3km from the airport. Aberdeen Airport is 64.4km from Balmoral, offering options like the 5-star Marcliffe, 9.7km away, and the Courtyard by Marriott, only 483m from the airport. Inverness Airport, located 75.6km away, has the Rocpool Reserve and Ness Walk hotels, both 12.9km distant, providing various shuttle services. Each airport offers convenient access to Balmoral Castle and surrounding attractions.