Scotland Castle Tours
Balmoral Castle Tours
Follow the Royal family to their cherished Aberdeenshire retreat. A small-group guided tour from Aberdeen visits Balmoral Estate, Victorian Ballater, an ancient stone circle, and the Queen's View.
Royal Deeside — A Landscape Fit for Kings
Balmoral Castle has been a treasured Royal family retreat since 1850, when Queen Victoria and Prince Albert chose this stunning Aberdeenshire landscape of heather-covered hills, majestic mountains, and the River Dee as their Scottish escape.
Villages, Stone Circles and Royal Views
Explore the Victorian village of Ballater at the gateway to Cairngorms National Park, visit the Cambus O'May Suspension Bridge spanning the River Dee, discover the 4,500-year-old Tomnaverie Stone Circle, and enjoy the Queen's View near Tarland — a panorama that captivated Queen Victoria herself.
Tour Highlights
- Follow in the footsteps of generations of Royals who loved Aberdeenshire
- Explore Balmoral Castle Estate — beloved retreat of the late Queen Elizabeth II
- Relax in the Victorian splendour of Ballater village
- Visit the 4,500-year-old Tomnaverie Stone Circle
- Enjoy the Queen's View near Tarland, cherished by Queen Victoria
Tour Details
Tour Route
William Wallace Statue, Aberdeen
Meet your guide next to the William Wallace Statue at Union Terrace Gardens on Rosemount Viaduct.
Drive to Royal Deeside
Travel through the stunning Aberdeenshire countryside to the heart of Royal Deeside.
Ballater
Explore this charming Victorian village with specialty shops and cafés. Visit the beautiful Victorian Railway Station.
Balmoral Castle Estate
Visit the Royal family's private Scottish retreat. The Ballroom is open to visitors, featuring objects from within the Castle belonging to the Royal Family.
Queen's View, Tarland
Stop at the vista that captivated Queen Victoria — sweeping views over the Howe of Cromar and the peak of Lochnagar.
William Wallace Statue, Aberdeen
Return to Aberdeen.
What You'll Experience
Royal Retreat
Balmoral — beloved home of the British Royal Family
Balmoral Ballroom
The only room open to visitors inside the castle
Ballater Village
Victorian shops, cafés, and the Railway Station
Stone Circle
4,500-year-old Tomnaverie recumbent stone circle
Queen's View
Panorama that captivated Queen Victoria near Tarland
Small Group
Intimate 7-person maximum for a personal experience
What's Included
✓ Included
- Roundtrip transportation from Aberdeen
- Tour guide
✗ Not Included
- Balmoral Castle entry ticket (optional — book a General Admission ticket for 10:00–12:00, £18.50)
- Food and drinks
Meeting Point
William Wallace Statue, Union Terrace Gardens
📍 Rosemount Viaduct, Aberdeen
What You Should Know
If visiting Balmoral Castle, book a General Admission ticket for 10:00–12:00 (£18.50) in advance.
Balmoral Castle Estate closes on 9 August 2026 — the tour will substitute a visit to Braemar Castle when closed.
Tours operate outdoors in all weather. Bring waterproof clothing.
Arrangements can be made for guests with mobility issues with prior notice.
Tours limited to a maximum of 7 guests.
Traveller Reviews
Rated 4.9 out of 5 — 263 verified reviews
"Jacqueline was brilliant — exceptionally well informed and so inclusive. If you want a great trip, use this company."
"If we could give Jamie ten stars we would. Beautiful, informative tour — Jamie went over and above answering every question."
"Jamie was a knowledgeable guide and perfect driver. Learned a great deal about the history of the area — including a few words in Doric!"
"Jacqueline is an excellent guide — fun, super knowledgeable. Strongly recommend this tour for a great day seeing Balmoral and the surrounding area."
"The guide took us to places we'd never have found alone. The scenery was beautiful. Jacqueline was well-informed and dedicated to making the trip memorable."
Frequently Asked Questions
Meet your guide next to the William Wallace Statue at Union Terrace Gardens on Rosemount Viaduct, Aberdeen.
The Balmoral Castle entry ticket is optional and not included. If you wish to visit inside, book a General Admission ticket for the 10:00–12:00 slot (£18.50) in advance.
Balmoral Castle Estate is closed from 9 August 2026. During closure, the tour substitutes a visit to Braemar Castle and the village of Braemar.
Tours are limited to a maximum of 7 guests for an intimate, personalised experience.
Yes — cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.