Hotels near Balmoral Castle

Top reasons to visit Balmoral Castle

• Guided Castle Tours: Experience the rich history of Balmoral Castle through informative guided tours, highlighting its royal significance.
• Stunning Gardens: Explore the beautifully maintained gardens, showcasing a variety of plants set against the scenic Scottish landscape.
• Waymarked Walks: Enjoy picturesque walks around the estate, perfect for embracing the natural beauty and wildlife.
• Charming Ballater: Discover the quaint town of Ballater, filled with delightful boutiques and local history.
• Comfortable Accommodation: Stay in a range of lodgings from luxury hotels to cosy cottages, ensuring a memorable visit.

Find great hotels near Balmoral Castle

Discover a variety of accommodation options near Balmoral Castle, catering to diverse preferences and needs. From charming luxury lodges to family-friendly hotels and cosy rental cottages, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy pet-friendly services and adventure-filled experiences while exploring the stunning Scottish Highlands. Whether you choose the Balmoral Arms Hotel or a holiday rental, your stay will be both memorable and comfortable.

• Balmoral Arms: Nestled approximately 11.3km from Balmoral Castle, Balmoral Arms is a charming 4-star hotel that welcomes both guests and their furry companions with a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. This pet-friendly establishment provides a warm, inviting atmosphere ideal for travellers seeking a relaxing getaway. Guests can enjoy amenities such as food and water bowls for pets and a no-fee service animal policy. The hotel’s comfortable rooms and friendly service create a homely experience, making it a great choice for those looking to unwind after exploring the enchanting Scottish countryside.
• Hilton Grand Vacations Club Craigendarroch Suites Scotland: Located 9.7km from Balmoral Castle, the Hilton Grand Vacations Club Craigendarroch Suites Scotland offers a serene 3.5-star retreat with a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This spa-themed accommodation is perfect for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests can indulge in a full spa experience featuring a sauna, hot tub, and indoor pool. With a focus on tranquillity, the hotel’s amenities ensure a restful stay, allowing visitors to unwind after a day of sightseeing in the picturesque surroundings.
• The Commercial Hotel: Situated 24.1km from Balmoral Castle, The Commercial Hotel is a 3-star accommodation boasting a remarkable guest rating of 9.4 out of 10. This property appeals to the adventurous traveller, offering a variety of outdoor activities nearby, including horse riding, mountain biking, and fishing. With a vibrant atmosphere and easy access to adventure sports, guests can immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes of Scotland while enjoying comfortable lodgings and warm hospitality.

Where to stay near Balmoral Castle

During your visit to Balmoral Castle, immerse yourself in the friendly atmosphere and scenic surroundings. Explore charming boutiques in the nearby town of Ballater, where you can enjoy quaint excursions and delve into the rich history of the region. Whether you're seeking a relaxing summer holiday or a family-friendly adventure, the enchanting landscapes and inviting communities promise a delightful experience just steps away from the iconic castle.

• Ballater: Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Ballater is a charming town that serves as a gateway to Balmoral Castle. Known for its stunning scenery, Ballater offers a plethora of outdoor adventures, including skiing and golfing, making it a popular destination from June to August. Visitors can explore the nearby Cairngorms National Park, which boasts breathtaking landscapes and is ideal for hiking and nature walks. The town itself is peppered with quaint shops and eateries, providing a delightful blend of local culture and hospitality.
• Braemar: A picturesque village located a mere 11.3km from Balmoral Castle, Braemar is famed for its dramatic landscapes and outdoor pursuits. With visitor numbers peaking from July to September, it offers a variety of activities, including skiing and golfing. The surrounding Cairngorms National Park enhances Braemar's appeal, offering spectacular views and opportunities for hiking. The village is also known for its rich history and hosts the Braemar Gathering, one of Scotland's most famous Highland Games, attracting visitors from far and wide.
• Crathie: Crathie, a quaint village adjacent to Balmoral Castle, is steeped in culture and historical significance. With a focus on romantic getaways and adventure experiences, it draws visitors year-round, particularly from March to April and in July. Crathie offers access to the historic castle as well as the enchanting landscapes of the nearby national park. The village features a charming shopping area, where travellers can find unique souvenirs, and hosts various cultural events throughout the year, making it an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in Scottish heritage.

Things to do in Balmoral Castle

Shopping

In Ballater, you can find charming local shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs, perfect for your trip. If you're up for a drive, visit Aberdeen's Union Square, located around 64.4km away, which features a variety of high street brands and eateries in a vibrant setting.

Recreation

At Balmoral Castle, indulge in serene spa treatments surrounded by the Scottish Highlands. Explore guided nature walks through the estate's lush grounds, and engage in yoga sessions that harmonise body and mind in a tranquil setting, offering a refreshing escape from everyday life.

Adventure

Explore the stunning grounds of Balmoral Castle, where you can embark on scenic walks through the estate's lush woodlands and gardens. Experience the beauty of the Scottish landscape while enjoying wildlife spotting and photography opportunities throughout the picturesque surroundings.

Nightlife

While Balmoral Castle itself is not known for a vibrant nightlife, nearby Ballater offers charming pubs like The Balmoral Bar, where you can enjoy a local whisky. The village occasionally hosts evening events, providing a relaxing atmosphere to unwind after a day of exploration.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Balmoral Castle

To save money on your visit to Balmoral Castle, consider travelling in February to March or November when accommodation prices are lower. Booking about a month in advance often yields the best rates, and Tuesday is typically the cheapest day to stay. Keep an eye out for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia, which can help you find special offers and package deals for hotels and activities. Additionally, using filters for Eco-certified hotels can lead to more affordable and sustainable options.

• 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: Booking a hotel around Balmoral Castle about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• 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: Expedia's intuitive search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results by price, from lowest to highest, ensuring that the most affordable hotels appear at the top. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can make savings by combining your hotel booking for Balmoral Castle with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Balmoral Castle

Visitors to Balmoral Castle can explore its stunning grounds, set against the backdrop of the majestic Scottish mountains. The area offers a rich cultural experience, with opportunities for outdoor activities and scenic views. Nearby, top hotels provide comfortable accommodation for travellers. Whether you're interested in the historic castle itself or the surrounding natural beauty, Balmoral Castle is a perfect destination for a memorable getaway.

• Morven: A striking mountain located 14.5km from Balmoral Castle, Morven offers breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. The ascent rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a fantastic spot for those seeking a connection with nature.
• Braemar Castle: Situated 11.3km away, Braemar Castle is steeped in history and romance. This historic fortress features beautiful architecture and engaging exhibitions, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the area.
• Knock Gallery: Just 1.4km from Balmoral Castle, Knock Gallery showcases an array of contemporary art. The gallery's inviting atmosphere makes it an excellent place to appreciate local talent and engage with the artistic community.

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

Flying to Balmoral Castle is convenient with several major airports nearby. EDInburgh Airport (EDI) is situated 122.3km away, with excellent hotel options including the 5.5-star Crescent House and the 5-star Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, both only 11.3km from the airport. Aberdeen Airport (ABZ), 64.4km from Balmoral, features luxurious stays such as the 5-star Marcliffe and Trump® International Scotland, located 6 and 12.9km away, respectively. Lastly, INVerness Airport (INV) is 75.6km from Balmoral, with top hotels like the 5-star Ness Walk and Rocpool Reserve, both 12.9km from the airport. Transportation services vary, ensuring easy access to each airport from these accommodations.