A large stone pyramid surrounded by a forest.

Top Hotels Near Balmoral Castle in Ballater from NZ$283

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10 Oct - 11 Oct
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Our top choices for Balmoral Castle hotels

A cozy room with a brick fireplace, a cushioned chair, and a wicker basket filled with logs.
A cozy room with a brick fireplace, a three-tiered tea service, and a variety of snacks and drinks on a table.
A cozy bar area with wooden flooring, plush seating, and a bar stocked with bottles.
A lobby with a checkered floor, a fireplace, and a reception desk.

1. Balmoral Arms

Balmoral Arms
10.9 km from Balmoral Castle
This hotel is a relaxed drive from Balmoral Castle, situated centrally in Ballater. Enjoy easy access to local sights, plus amenities for pets and skiing.
NZ$283
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
Balmoral Arms
An indoor swimming pool with a tiled edge, a lounge area with chairs, and a staircase leading to a higher level.
A historic building with a turret and ivy-covered walls, featuring a stone facade and large windows.
A serene outdoor setting with a pond, lush greenery, and two buildings with a modern design.
A lobby with a wooden reception desk, marble counters, and a staircase with wooden railings.

2. Hilton Grand Vacations Club Craigendarroch Suites Royal Deeside

Hilton Grand Vacations Club Craigendarroch Suites Royal Deeside
10.4 km from Balmoral Castle
This hotel sits a comfortable drive from Balmoral Castle. The fitness centre and steam room enhance your stay, while its beautiful location is ideal for exploring Scotland.
NZ$359
includes taxes & fees
3 Nov - 4 Nov
Hilton Grand Vacations Club Craigendarroch Suites Royal Deeside
A cozy living room with leather armchairs, a round wooden coffee table, and a stone fireplace with a fire.
A house with large windows, a visible kitchen area, and a small outdoor seating area.
A dining table with a bottle, a glass, and a wine glass.
A bar area with wooden flooring, bar stools, a chandelier, and a well-stocked liquor shelf.

3. The Speyside Hotel

The Speyside Hotel
40.1 km from Balmoral Castle
This hotel is located in the wider area around Balmoral Castle. It offers spacious rooms with separate living areas and is close to local restaurants and bars.
NZ$227
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
The Speyside Hotel
A historic building with a statue in the foreground, a pond, and a well-maintained garden.
A hotel room with two beds, each with a white mattress and a dark checkered blanket. There are two dark checkered pillows on each bed.
A sunlit patio with wicker furniture, a potted plant, and a view of a green landscape through large windows.
A spacious living room with a fireplace, comfortable seating, and large windows.

4. Craiglynne Hotel

Craiglynne Hotel
39.8 km from Balmoral Castle
This hotel is situated in the broader region of Balmoral Castle, providing a comfortable stay for ski enthusiasts. Numerous restaurants and bars are nearby for your convenience.
NZ$98
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Craiglynne Hotel
A large, historic building with multiple towers and turrets, surrounded by a well-maintained lawn and trees, set against a mountainous backdrop.
A dining table with wine glasses and a plate of food.
A traditional living room with red curtains, a fireplace, and patterned carpet.
A large, historic building with multiple chimneys, surrounded by lush greenery and mountains in the background.

5. Dalmunzie Castle Hotel

Dalmunzie Castle Hotel
29.1 km from Balmoral Castle
This hotel is set in the broader region of Balmoral Castle, offering mountain biking and access to scenic hiking trails. Visitors often highlight its beautiful surroundings.
NZ$249
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Dalmunzie Castle Hotel
A large, historic building with multiple wings and a central tower, surrounded by well-maintained gardens and a lawn.
A large, historic hotel with a symmetrical facade, multiple chimneys, and a well-maintained lawn with a gravel path leading to the entrance.
A cozy room with a fireplace, wooden flooring, and large windows offering a view of the outdoors.
A three-tiered dessert tray with various sweets and a bottle of champagne, a teapot, and a candle on a wooden table.

6. Nethybridge Hotel

Nethybridge Hotel
36.5 km from Balmoral Castle
This hotel is set in the scenic surroundings of Balmoral Castle. Guests often highlight the lovely area, which offers golf, ski options, and nearby dining.
NZ$181
includes taxes & fees
20 Oct - 21 Oct
Nethybridge Hotel
A spacious living area with a wooden dining table, two sofas, a kitchen with wooden cabinets, and large windows.
A modern kitchen with wooden cabinets, stainless steel appliances, a window with blinds, and a black countertop.
A red cabin with a porch and a picnic table in a forested area.
A cozy living room with wooden walls and ceiling, a brown leather sofa, a wooden coffee table with a book and remote, and a kitchen area in the background.

7. Invercauld Lodges

Invercauld Lodges
10.4 km from Balmoral Castle
This hotel is a relaxed drive from Balmoral Castle. Enjoy a balcony with scenic views and pet-friendly rooms. Local dining options are just around the corner. Guests consistently rate it highly.
Invercauld Lodges
A dining area with a table set for two, a chair, a lamp, and a view of a garden through large windows.
A hotel room with a bed, two armchairs, a small table with a plant, and a window with curtains.
A room with two leather armchairs, a small table with a plant, and a window with curtains.
A living room with a plaid carpet, a Christmas tree, a leather sofa, and a coffee table with a placemat.

8. The Bridge of Cally Hotel

The Bridge of Cally Hotel
45.1 km from Balmoral Castle
This hotel is situated in the wider area around Balmoral Castle, providing comfortable, well-maintained rooms. Enjoy nearby dining options and adventure activities.
NZ$208
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
The Bridge of Cally Hotel
Two modern houses with large glass windows, surrounded by a well-maintained lawn and tall trees.
An indoor swimming pool with clear blue water, surrounded by lounge chairs and potted plants.
A lobby with a wooden staircase, marble reception desks, and framed artwork on the walls.
A historic building with a turret, ivy-covered walls, and a well-maintained garden.

9. The Lodges At Craigendarroch Country Club

The Lodges At Craigendarroch Country Club
10 km from Balmoral Castle
This hotel sits a short drive from Balmoral Castle. Enjoy a fitness centre and easy access to local restaurants and bars for a relaxing stay in the Scottish Highlands.
The Lodges At Craigendarroch Country Club
A historic stone building with multiple windows and a corner turret, likely a hotel.
A high vantage point view of a residential area with houses, a clear sky, and distant hills.
A formal dining room with a large mirror, ornate chandeliers, and a floral centerpiece on the table.
A spacious room with a large window, a fireplace, a plush sofa, and a plaid carpet.

10. The Grant Arms Hotel

The Grant Arms Hotel
40 km from Balmoral Castle
This hotel is situated in the broader region of Balmoral Castle, offering multilingual staff and pet-friendly options. Many travellers highlight its central location, ideal for exploring the Highlands.
NZ$306
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
The Grant Arms Hotel
A bottle of Prosecco, two glasses of champagne, and a bowl of strawberries on a wooden tray in a hotel room.
A modern kitchen with wooden countertops, white cabinets, and a built-in oven. There are two stools and a window with a view of the outside.
A living room with a brown leather sofa set, a wooden coffee table, and a framed picture on the wall.
A modern kitchen with dark cabinets, a wooden countertop, and a microwave.

11. Lodge at Lochside

Lodge at Lochside
40.4 km from Balmoral Castle
This bed & breakfast is set in the wider area around Balmoral Castle. Enjoy winery tours and cross-country skiing, with local restaurants and bars just a short drive away.
NZ$165
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Lodge at Lochside
A bedroom with a bed, a framed picture, and a window with curtains.
A restaurant with wooden paneling, framed artwork on the walls, and a clean, modern interior.
The Alyth Hotel with a signboard advertising accommodation, restaurant, lounge, and bar.
A hotel entrance with a wooden staircase leading to a room.

12. The Alyth Hotel

The Alyth Hotel
46.3 km from Balmoral Castle
This hotel is set in the greater area around Balmoral Castle, offering separate living rooms and secure bicycle storage. Visitors often mention its proximity to local shops and golf courses.
NZ$267
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
The Alyth Hotel
A rustic outdoor seating area with tables and chairs, surrounded by a wooden fence and trees.
A neatly made bed with white linens and decorative pillows, a plaid blanket, and two woven wall lamps.
A traditional white building with a steeply pitched roof, multiple chimneys, and a sign indicating it is a pub. There are outdoor seating areas with tables and chairs, and a bench along the side.
A restaurant with wooden tables and chairs, a stone wall, and a fireplace.

13. The Boat Inn

The Boat Inn
26.5 km from Balmoral Castle
Set in the wider area surrounding Balmoral Castle, this inn provides outdoor furniture and is a good base for exploring Deeside and Speyside. Dining options are nearby.
NZ$250
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
The Boat Inn
Room
A spacious dining area with a stone wall, fireplace, and modern lighting fixtures.
A modern bathroom with a glass shower enclosure, a toilet, and a vanity with a sink.
A neatly folded white towel on a bed with two small green packets on it.

14. Ben Mhor Hotel

Ben Mhor Hotel
40 km from Balmoral Castle
Set in the wider area around Balmoral Castle, this hotel offers ski facilities and is located right on High Street, providing easy access to the Highlands’ attractions.
NZ$161
includes taxes & fees
23 Oct - 24 Oct
Ben Mhor Hotel
A large, stately house with a symmetrical facade, a central entrance, and a well-maintained garden with hedges and a lawn.
A historic building with a stone wall, a small pond, and lush greenery.
A wooden hallway with a checkered floor, a potted plant, and a staircase leading to another room.
A rooftop terrace with a black outdoor sofa, a glass table with wine glasses and a bottle, and a view of a white building with a chimney.

15. Douneside House

Douneside House
24.7 km from Balmoral Castle
This hotel is a comfortable drive from Balmoral Castle, showcasing lovely rooms with comfortable surroundings. Guests appreciate the furnished patio and bicycle storage.
NZ$509
includes taxes & fees
13 Oct - 14 Oct
Douneside House
A cozy room with a stone wall, a fireplace, leather sofas, patterned armchairs, and a chandelier.
A restaurant with a classic interior, featuring a long dining table, multiple chairs, and a chandelier.
A bedroom with a bed, a nightstand, a lamp, and a mirror. There is a bathroom visible through an open door.
A dimly lit bar area with a large display of liquor bottles, leather seating, and small tables with candles.

16. Kildrummy Inn

Kildrummy Inn
29.9 km from Balmoral Castle
This hotel is situated in the broader region of Balmoral Castle. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast and relax on the outdoor furniture. Nearby, guests appreciate the vibrant Highland Games.
NZ$697
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
Kildrummy Inn
An outdoor seating area with wicker chairs and tables, two umbrellas, and potted plants.
A pool table with balls, a dartboard, and a clock on a stone wall.
A bedroom with a bed, bedside tables, a mirror, a vase with flowers, and a telephone.
A stone building with signs advertising The Commercial, a pub, lounge bar, and beer garden.

17. The Commercial Hotel

The Commercial Hotel
23.9 km from Balmoral Castle
This hotel sits a short drive from Balmoral Castle and Cairngorms National Park. It offers check-in and ski options, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
NZ$306
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
The Commercial Hotel
A modern restaurant with marble tables and cushioned booths, a TV displaying a news program, and a sign indicating the location of the toilets.
A bar area with a counter, various bottles, and a sign indicating a special offer.
A traditional pub named Airlie Arms with a signboard, outdoor seating, and a stone wall.
A compact kitchen with white cabinets, a microwave, a stove, and a sink.

18. Airlie Arms Hotel

Airlie Arms Hotel
42.6 km from Balmoral Castle
This hotel is located in the broader region of Balmoral Castle, offering a separate living room and pet-friendly options. Many travellers highlight the quality of dinner and breakfast.
NZ$320
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
Airlie Arms Hotel
A wooden cabin with a porch, surrounded by trees and a well-maintained garden.
A covered outdoor seating area with wooden benches and tables, stone walls, and windows with curtains.
A dining area with a long table set for a meal, wooden beams on the ceiling, stone walls, and a bar area in the background.
A bedroom with a bed, two bedside tables, a dresser, a desk, a chair, a balcony with a view, and a chandelier.

19. Loch Kinord Hotel

Loch Kinord Hotel
20.1 km from Balmoral Castle
This hotel is a relaxed drive from Balmoral Castle. Enjoy a terrace for unwinding after exploring, with nearby dining options to enhance your stay.
NZ$266
includes taxes & fees
11 Oct - 12 Oct
Loch Kinord Hotel
A room with a wooden floor, a pair of sandals on a mat, a sofa, and a view of a green landscape through an open door.
A wooden door with a sign reading "Welcome to Cabin Lodge."
A spacious living room with a fireplace, large windows, and comfortable seating.
A modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a marble countertop, and a large island with food items and a loaf of bread.

20. Gulabin Lodge and House

Gulabin Lodge and House
28.9 km from Balmoral Castle
The lodge is situated in the broader region of Balmoral Castle, providing bicycle storage and a charcoal grill for your convenience. Nearby, you'll find various restaurants and bars to explore.
NZ$192
includes taxes & fees
3 Nov - 4 Nov
Gulabin Lodge and House
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Hotels recommended for families near Balmoral Castle

A cozy room with a brick fireplace, a cushioned chair, and a wicker basket filled with logs.
A cozy room with a brick fireplace, a three-tiered tea service, and a variety of snacks and drinks on a table.
A cozy bar area with wooden flooring, plush seating, and a bar stocked with bottles.
A lobby with a checkered floor, a fireplace, and a reception desk.

Balmoral Arms

Balmoral Arms
Ballater
NZ$283
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
Balmoral Arms
An indoor swimming pool with a tiled edge, a lounge area with chairs, and a staircase leading to a higher level.
A historic building with a turret and ivy-covered walls, featuring a stone facade and large windows.
A serene outdoor setting with a pond, lush greenery, and two buildings with a modern design.
A lobby with a wooden reception desk, marble counters, and a staircase with wooden railings.

Hilton Grand Vacations Club Craigendarroch Suites Royal Deeside

Hilton Grand Vacations Club Craigendarroch Suites Royal Deeside
Ballater
NZ$359
includes taxes & fees
3 Nov - 4 Nov
Hilton Grand Vacations Club Craigendarroch Suites Royal Deeside
A room with three wooden beds, each with patterned bedding, a small bedside table with a lamp, and a window with curtains.
A buffet setup with various food containers, a coffee machine, and stacked plates and cups.
A living room with a green sofa, a round coffee table, and two armchairs. There is a fireplace on the left and a window with curtains on the right.
A stone building with a pitched roof, multiple windows, and a front door.

Braemar Youth Hostel

Braemar Youth Hostel
Ballater
NZ$138
includes taxes & fees
4 Nov - 5 Nov
Braemar Youth Hostel
A grassy field with a backdrop of dense forest and hills.
A dining area with a table and chairs, large windows with curtains, and a view of trees and mountains.
A stone building with a porch, green shutters, and a dog in the yard.
A view through a window with a white frame and a black handle, overlooking a landscape with hills, trees, and a building in the distance.

Cambus o'May Hotel

Cambus o'May Hotel
Aboyne
NZ$255
includes taxes & fees
3 Nov - 4 Nov
Cambus o'May Hotel
A wooden cabin with a porch, surrounded by trees and a well-maintained garden.
A covered outdoor seating area with wooden benches and tables, stone walls, and windows with curtains.
A dining area with a long table set for a meal, wooden beams on the ceiling, stone walls, and a bar area in the background.
A bedroom with a bed, two bedside tables, a dresser, a desk, a chair, a balcony with a view, and a chandelier.

Loch Kinord Hotel

Loch Kinord Hotel
Aboyne
NZ$266
includes taxes & fees
11 Oct - 12 Oct
Loch Kinord Hotel
An outdoor seating area with wicker chairs and tables, two umbrellas, and potted plants.
A pool table with balls, a dartboard, and a clock on a stone wall.
A bedroom with a bed, bedside tables, a mirror, a vase with flowers, and a telephone.
A stone building with signs advertising The Commercial, a pub, lounge bar, and beer garden.

The Commercial Hotel

The Commercial Hotel
Aboyne
NZ$306
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
The Commercial Hotel
A large, stately house with a symmetrical facade, a central entrance, and a well-maintained garden with hedges and a lawn.
A historic building with a stone wall, a small pond, and lush greenery.
A wooden hallway with a checkered floor, a potted plant, and a staircase leading to another room.
A rooftop terrace with a black outdoor sofa, a glass table with wine glasses and a bottle, and a view of a white building with a chimney.

Douneside House

Douneside House
Aboyne
NZ$509
includes taxes & fees
13 Oct - 14 Oct
Douneside House
A rustic outdoor seating area with tables and chairs, surrounded by a wooden fence and trees.
A neatly made bed with white linens and decorative pillows, a plaid blanket, and two woven wall lamps.
A traditional white building with a steeply pitched roof, multiple chimneys, and a sign indicating it is a pub. There are outdoor seating areas with tables and chairs, and a bench along the side.
A restaurant with wooden tables and chairs, a stone wall, and a fireplace.

The Boat Inn

The Boat Inn
Aboyne
NZ$250
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
The Boat Inn

Top Balmoral Castle Hotel Reviews

Argyle Guest House

Argyle Guest House

10/10 Excellent
"We had a wonderful breakfast. I comfortable room with seating and cute decore."
Sandra 1-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Argyle Guest House
Cambus o'May Hotel

Cambus o'May Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Awesome location!! beautiful home. we had dinner and breakfast and it was great."
Deborah 1-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Cambus o'May Hotel
Balmoral Arms

Balmoral Arms

10/10 Excellent
"Great location for access to be. Highlands Quite and peaceful Great staff, food is all local products and authentic!"
Catherine O 2-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Balmoral Arms
Dalmunzie Castle Hotel

Dalmunzie Castle Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"This place was beautiful and peaceful. The drive to the motel was stunning"
Jalisa 1-night trip
Posted 5 days ago
Dalmunzie Castle Hotel
Nethybridge Hotel

Nethybridge Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"The hotel was perfect for our stay. Room was small but comfortable. Bathroom was nice except for very low water pressure in the shower. Dinner in the restaurant was delicious. Breakfast had a lot of choices and was good as well. Garden was nice for a stroll. Staff was very friendly and helpful! Enjoyed our stay!"
LISA 2-night trip
Posted 5 days ago
Nethybridge Hotel
The Lodges At Craigendarroch Country Club

The Lodges At Craigendarroch Country Club

10/10 Excellent
"everything very good"
Bruce 2-night trip
Posted 5 days ago
The Lodges At Craigendarroch Country Club
Hilton Grand Vacations Club Craigendarroch Suites Royal Deeside

Hilton Grand Vacations Club Craigendarroch Suites Royal Deeside

10/10 Excellent
"Great property, spacious room and perfect location as a hub to explore the Highlands."
Christophe 5-night trip
Posted 7 days ago
Hilton Grand Vacations Club Craigendarroch Suites Royal Deeside
Kindrogan House

Kindrogan House

10/10 Excellent
"Good place to stay and enjoy nature."
Josefina 1-night trip
Posted 2 weeks ago
Kindrogan House
Loch Kinord Hotel

Loch Kinord Hotel

8/10 Good
"We had a lovely time at Loch Kinord. We especially enjoyed the hiking right from the property. Our cabin was cozy and perfect for our stay. The food in the restaurant was very enjoyable."
Kimberly 3-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
Loch Kinord Hotel

Other attractions near Balmoral Castle

A mountain landscape with a lake and rocky terrain.

Lochnagar

9.2/10 (27 reviews)
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Lochnagar during your travels in Ballater. While you're here, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.
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A castle with multiple towers, a flag, and a surrounding landscape with trees and a hill.
Photo by Michael Schuier

Braemar Castle

8.8/10 (5 reviews)
Braemar Castle is just one of the places to see in Ballater, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? While in this family-friendly area, you can savour the restaurants and bars.
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Royal Lochnagar Distillery

10.0/10 (1 review)
You can take time to visit Royal Lochnagar Distillery during your travels to Crathie.
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Knock Gallery

10.0/10 (1 review)
You can spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in Knock Gallery during your trip to Crathie. Savour the area's bars and restaurants.
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Ballochbuie Forest

Explore the great outdoors at Ballochbuie Forest, a lovely green space in Ballater. Savour the area's bars and restaurants.
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Knock Castle

Knock Castle is just one of the places to see in Ballater, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Savour the area's bars and restaurants.
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Craigendarroch Hill

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Craigendarroch Hill during your travels in Ballater. Savour the area's bars and restaurants.
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The Seven Bridges

You can take time to visit The Seven Bridges during your travels to Elkton. Stroll along this family-friendly area's riverfront or simply enjoy its restaurants.
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Find out more about Balmoral Castle

Top reasons to visit Balmoral Castle

  • Guided Castle Tours: Explore the iconic Balmoral Castle with informative guided tours that unveil its rich history and architecture.
  • Stunning Gardens: Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens that showcase the natural beauty of the Scottish countryside.
  • Waymarked Walks: Enjoy scenic walks that allow you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking mountain scenery and local wildlife.
  • Charming Local Towns: Discover quaint boutiques and friendly locals in nearby towns, perfect for a leisurely day out.
  • Diverse Accommodation: Choose from luxurious lodges to cozy hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay tailored to your needs.

Find great hotels near Balmoral Castle

Explore a range of accommodation options near Balmoral Castle, from luxurious lodges to charming hotels like the Balmoral Arms Hotel. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly facilities or a family-friendly adventure, you'll find the ideal spot to unwind. Consider rental cottages and holiday rentals for a home-away-from-home experience, ensuring a memorable stay in this picturesque part of Scotland.

  • Balmoral Arms: Experience the warmth of Scottish hospitality at Balmoral Arms, a charming 4-star hotel located 11.3km from Balmoral Castle. This pet-friendly property is ideal for those travelling with furry companions, offering amenities such as food and water bowls and guidelines for pet stays. Guests appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and the high guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. The hotel provides a comfortable stay, complemented by a range of local dining options and easy access to picturesque surroundings.
  • Hilton Grand Vacations Club Craigendarroch Suites Scotland: Set 9.7km from Balmoral Castle, the Hilton Grand Vacations Club Craigendarroch Suites Scotland is a delightful 3.5-star retreat perfect for spa enthusiasts. Guests rave about the outstanding spa services, including rejuvenating facial treatments, a soothing steam room, and an inviting indoor pool with a hot tub. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, this accommodation offers a relaxing environment where you can unwind after a day of exploring the beauty of Scotland.
  • The Commercial Hotel: Adventure seekers will find a welcoming base at The Commercial Hotel, located 24.1km from Balmoral Castle. This 3-star accommodation boasts a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10 and is close to a variety of outdoor activities, including waterskiing, rock climbing, mountain biking, horse riding, and fishing. With a focus on adventure, this hotel ensures that guests can make the most of their time in the stunning Scottish Highlands.

Where to stay near Balmoral Castle

Exploring the area around Balmoral Castle promises a delightful mix of friendly locals and stunning scenery. Wander through charming boutiques in nearby towns, soak in the rich history, and enjoy tranquil excursions amidst picturesque landscapes. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly getaway or a peaceful retreat, the region offers a welcoming atmosphere perfect for summer holidays and memorable experiences.

  • Ballater: Nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, Ballater is a charming town that serves as the gateway to Balmoral Castle. With its picturesque scenery and outdoor adventures, visitors flock here year-round, especially during the warmer months from June to August. The area boasts fantastic opportunities for skiing, golfing, and exploring the stunning national park. Local attractions, including the historic Balmoral Castle, allow you to immerse yourself in Scottish heritage while enjoying the breathtaking landscape.
  • Braemar: Just a short drive of 11.3km from Balmater, Braemar is a quaint village that offers a serene escape into the Scottish Highlands. Renowned for its rugged beauty, this area attracts visitors seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, particularly from July to September. Whether you're hitting the slopes at nearby ski fields or enjoying a round of golf, Braemar's charm is undeniable. The village is also surrounded by remarkable landmarks and national parks, making it an ideal base for exploring the natural wonders of Scotland.
  • Crathie: Crathie is another picturesque village that is home to the iconic Balmoral Castle, offering a unique blend of culture and romance. Visitors are drawn to this charming locale for its cultural experiences and outdoor activities, with peak travel times in March to April and July. Alongside skiing and shopping, the village provides access to breathtaking national parks and historical sites, ensuring an enriching experience for every traveller. Crathie's serene environment and close-knit community make it a delightful spot to unwind and soak in the local culture.

Things to do in Balmoral Castle

Shopping

Balmoral Castle offers a charming gift shop where you can find unique souvenirs and local crafts. If you're up for a drive, the nearby town of Ballater has several quaint shops and boutiques. For a wider selection, consider heading to Aberdeen's Union Square Shopping Centre, about 64.4km away.

Recreation

At Balmoral Castle, indulge in serene garden walks amidst lush landscapes, or partake in guided nature hikes that showcase the stunning Scottish Highlands. Relax with traditional afternoon tea in the castle's opulent surroundings, offering a blend of history and tranquillity for a rejuvenating experience.

Adventure

Balmoral Castle offers picturesque walking trails through the stunning Scottish countryside, perfect for hiking enthusiasts. Explore the castle gardens and immerse yourself in the rich history of the royal estate. For a unique adventure, consider cycling along nearby paths or enjoying wildlife spotting in the surrounding natural beauty.

Nightlife

Explore the local atmosphere at The Bothy in Ballater for a relaxed vibe and hearty meals. For a lively night, visit The Royal Deeside Railway for themed events or check out the local pubs for a taste of Scottish ales and traditional music.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Balmoral Castle

For a budget-friendly trip to Balmoral Castle, consider visiting in February to March or November when accommodation prices are lower. Book about a month in advance, and check Expedia for last-minute deals, particularly on Tuesdays, the cheapest day to stay. Use Expedia’s search tools to filter by budget and eco-friendly options. Combine your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Keep an eye out for special offers and deal alerts to maximise your budget while exploring Ballater.

  • 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 search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable accommodation options first. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Balmoral Castle hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Balmoral Castle

Balmoral Castle offers a delightful mix of mountain scenery, historic castle charm, and cozy lodges, making it a must-visit for those seeking culture and outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore the iconic Balmoral Castle itself, take part in tours, and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. Whether you're just a few kilometres away or planning your visit, there's plenty to see and do in this picturesque part of Scotland.

  • Braemar Castle: Located 11.3km from Balmoral Castle, Braemar Castle boasts a rich cultural heritage and romantic ambience. Explore its historic architecture and picturesque surroundings, perfect for a leisurely stroll or an intimate picnic.
  • Lochnagar: Just 9.7km away, Lochnagar is a majestic mountain ideal for adventure seekers. Enjoy breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities such as hiking, where you can immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands.
  • Mar Lodge Estate: Situated 17.7km from Balmoral, Mar Lodge Estate offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It's a great spot for families, featuring beautiful grounds and friendly locals, perfect for a relaxing day out.

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 iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January33.3°F (0.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
February34.3°F (1.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March37.2°F (2.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
April41.4°F (5.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August54.0°F (12.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
September50.5°F (10.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
October44.8°F (7.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November38.7°F (3.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December34.3°F (1.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Balmoral Castle

Reaching Balmoral Castle is convenient with several major airports nearby. EDInburgh Airport (EDI) is situated 122.3km away, with excellent hotel options such as the 5.5-star Crescent House and the 5-star Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, both 11.3km from the airport. Aberdeen Airport (ABZ) is closer at 64.4km, featuring the 5-star Marcliffe Hotel just 9.7km away. Lastly, INVerness Airport (INV) is 75.6km from Balmoral, with luxurious stays like the 5-star Ness Walk Hotel located 12.9km from the airport. Each airport provides accessible transportation services to these hotels, ensuring a smooth travel experience while visiting this historic site.

Frequently asked questions

What's the area like around Balmoral Castle?
Balmoral Castle is located in a welcoming area of Crathie that travellers like for its bars and restaurants. You'll find 5 hotels and other accommodations within a few miles for a convenient home base.
Where is the best place to stay near Balmoral Castle?
Balmoral Arms is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveller data, and this hotel offers a restaurant and free parking. You'll find it 6.7 mi (10.9 km) from Balmoral Castle. Other good choices in the area include Hilton Grand Vacations Club Craigendarroch Suites Royal Deeside and Braemar Lodge Cabins.
How many hotels can I expect to find near Balmoral Castle?
Expedia has 5 hotels and other accommodation options a few miles from Balmoral Castle.
If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Balmoral Castle, will I receive a refund?
Yes, most hotel room reservations are fully refundable if you cancel prior to the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which often is within 24-48 hours of your check-in date. If you booked a non-refundable reservation, you may still be able to cancel and receive a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Plug in your dates, click on "Search", then you can use the "fully refundable" filter to view top deals close to Balmoral Castle.

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