Stately granite Balmoral Castle on Royal Deeside has been the Scottish home of the Royal Family since 1856. The grounds, gardens and exhibitions are open to the public from March until August (when Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh arrive).
In 1852 Prince Albert bought the castle for Queen Victoria, redesigning it using granite from the neighbouring quarries of Glen Gelder, which produced a near white stone. After his death it became a favoured place for the Queen and, in turn, she bequeathed it to King Edward VII. It has been passed to every reigning monarch ever since.
Balmoral Castle Gardens are open to the public from May to July, attracting around 75,000 visitors each year. Walkers also have access to the park via a network of about 120 miles of roads, tracks and paths. There is a visitor centre at Spittal of Muick.
Balmoral Castle Gardens are open to the public from May to July, attracting around 75,000 visitors each year. Walkers also have access to the park via a network of about 120 miles of roads, tracks and paths. There is a visitor centre at Spittal of Muick.