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Activities in Aberdeen

Balmoral Castle & Royal Deeside Day Trip

  • 6 reviews | 47 travellers
    What a great tour!!! Alex was our guide on this day, and you could tell he had a wealth of knowledge about Aberdeenshire and entertained us with his personal anecdotes along the way. He even sought out places that we might see some of the Highland Cows and sheep up close. Balmoral Castle was closed because the Royals were in residence, but he took us to the gates, for pictures, and on to another castle instead. We were also taken to one of the stone "circles". This is a must for all!
    10 Marilyn Mcgrath
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the service starts
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the service starts

Experience the enchanting beauty of Scotland's inland landscapes on a captivating day trip from Aberdeen. Join us as we explore the renowned Balmoral Castle and delve into the splendors of Royal Deeside.

Experience the enchanting beauty of Scotland's inland landscapes on a captivating day trip from Aberdeen. Join us as we explore the renowned Balmoral Castle and delve into the splendors of Royal Deeside.

Description

We'll meet at the designated time at the William Wallace statue in Aberdeen, and embark on an adventure through Royal Deeside and Balmoral Castle.

Our journey begins with a scenic drive to Balmoral Castle, the cherished fortress of the British royal family. En route, we'll admire the rugged landscape of hills and mountains along the River Dee. Capture stunning photos before arriving at the castle, where we'll step back in time to the mid-nineteenth century when Queen Victoria and Prince Albert acquired Balmoral.

Explore the royal residence at your own pace, taking in the charm of the Balmoral gardens, the grand ballroom, and the breathtaking Aberdeenshire views. It's no wonder that Balmoral was a beloved retreat of the late Queen Elizabeth II!

Leaving Balmoral Castle behind, we'll traverse the remarkable Cairngorm National Park, an iconic Scottish landmark. Pause at the Gairnshields Bridge, a picturesque viaduct dating back to 1751 that spans the Gairn River. Marvel at the beauty of the Caigngorm Hills before visiting the Victorian village of Ballater in the heart of Royal Deeside.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through this picturesque Scottish town and savor a delightful lunch at one of its charming cafes. After eating, we'll continue our journey, passing by the Cambus O'May Bridge. Our next stop will be at the ancient stone circle of Tomnavarie, a fascinating funerary monument with over 4500 years of history.

To conclude our exploration of Royal Deeside, we'll make our way to The Queen's View in the village of Tarland. Discover the enchanting vista that captivated Queen Victoria during her first visit, and experience the same awe-inspiring sensation.

Finally, we'll return to the starting point in Aberdeen, concluding our tour after a total of seven and a half hours of sightseeing.

Balmoral Castle opening dates

Please keep in mind that Balmoral Castle closes in summer to welcome the royal family. If you book the tour during these months, we'll instead visit Braemar Castle, a fortress that was the residence of the Farquharson clan.

View complete description

More Information

Duration

7h 30m.

Language The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

Included

Transport by minibus

English–speaking guide

Not included

Admission to Balmoral Castle: £ 11.50 (US$ 14.90) per person

Food and drinks

When to book?

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Not wheelchair accessible.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.

Sustainability Code

Our providers commit to:

  • Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
  • Reduce, reuse, recycle.
  • Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
  • Uphold fair employment standards.
  • Foster the growth of local communities.
  • Preserve the integrity of local culture.
  • Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
  • Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
  • Operate with honesty and transparency.
  • Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

  • No printing of documentation required.
  • Promotes local employment.
  • Has a gender equality policy.
  • Has a carbon footprint offset policy.

Provider

Grampian Escapes & Tours Ltd Show more

  • Grampian Escapes & Tours Ltd

    Corporate name: Grampian Escapes & Tours Ltd

  • Show less

Pets

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

  • Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

    A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

  • Q - How to book?

    A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Meeting point

William Wallace Statue

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