Top Hotels Near Balmoral Castle in Ballater from NZ$182

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.

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 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

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.