Explore Balmoral Castle: A Historic Royal Retreat

For the first time ever, the public is welcome to visit Balmoral Castle, the beloved getaway of the late Queen Elizabeth II. King Charles III has encouraged visitors to explore the legendary halls and gorgeous rooms of this historic Scottish estate in Aberdeenshire. The castle's 167 rooms include the entry hall, the red hallway, the main and family dining rooms, the page's lobby, the library, and the drawing room, among others. From its purchase by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert to its present use by the King and Queen, the castle's website tells the story of the royal family's involvement with the property since its inception.

Prince Albert first expanded Balmoral Castle for Queen Victoria when he built it in 1855. It has been a favourite retreat for the royal family for many years, but Queen Elizabeth II especially treasured the seclusion it provided. The Queen's estate was a peaceful retreat from London, where she and her corgis could go on walks, fish in the River Dee, and play golf on her own course. Several important royal events have taken place at Balmoral, such as the funeral for Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022 and the notification of Princess Diana's death to Princes William and Harry.

The excited visitors completely sold out the guided tour tickets, which cost $125 each or $200 with afternoon tea, within one day of going on sale. From July 1st until August 4th, the castle will be open for exploration to forty people every day. Anyone else can enjoy afternoon tea at the castle restaurant or in one of the five cottages on the estate; the grounds, gardens, and castle displays, which span 50,000 acres, will be open to the public until August 11 next year.