Balmoral & Royal Deeside Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Aberdeen and want a taste of Scotland’s regal history alongside breathtaking landscapes, the Balmoral & Royal Deeside Tour could be just what you need. While I haven’t done it myself, this highly-rated experience promises a mix of iconic sights, charming villages, and hidden gems—all delivered through small-group intimacy and knowledgeable guides.

What really catches the eye is the high praise from travelers who recommend this tour by a huge margin—98% of reviewers suggest it’s worth booking. Two features we love? First, the chance to walk on the grounds of Balmoral Castle, a royal family home since the 1850s, and second, the variety of scenic and historical stops along the way, from stone circles to viewpoints once loved by Queen Victoria.

A potential snag? The tour’s main highlight, Balmoral Castle, isn’t always accessible—sometimes it’s closed due to royal family schedules, which could mean a change in plans. Still, even with that, the overall experience seems to deliver strong value and plenty of memorable moments. This tour is ideal if you’re into Scottish history, stunning scenery, and small-group settings that let you really soak it all in without feeling rushed.

If you enjoy leisurely exploration, learning interesting stories from local guides, and seeing Scotland’s countryside in a relaxed way, this trip could suit you perfectly—especially if you’re after a day that balances culture with natural beauty.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small group size (max 7 people) ensures more personalized attention and interaction.
• Diverse Landmarks: Includes Balmoral Castle, Ballater, suspension bridges, stone circles, and scenic viewpoints.
• Rich Stories & Local Knowledge: Guides are praised for their friendly, informative approach, making history come alive.
• Flexible Highlights: Even if Balmoral Castle is closed, the tour offers alternative visits like Crathes Castle and other scenic spots.
• Ideal for Culture & Nature Lovers: Perfect for those who enjoy history, stunning landscapes, and peaceful villages.
• Good Value: At around $135, the tour packs in a full day of sightseeing, stories, and scenic views, making it well worth the price.

The Itinerary in Detail

Balmoral Castle & Estate

While the experience of walking through Balmoral Castle’s grounds is a highlight for many, it’s important to note that the castle is sometimes closed, like from August 12 to October 1, 2024. When open, you get about two hours to explore the sprawling estate, stroll the gardens, and soak in the views that Queen Elizabeth loved so much. The estate has been a royal family retreat since Queen Victoria made it her Scottish holiday home in 1850, and today, King Charles III still holds it dear.

Many reviewers have raved about their time here, with some noting the grounds are majestic with views of hills, mountains, and the River Dee. One guest mentioned, “Jamie (their guide) has so much knowledge of the area and is clearly proud of his corner of Scotland,” which enhances the experience for those eager to learn stories behind the scenery.

Visiting Ballater

Next up is Ballater, a charming Victorian village right in the heart of Royal Deeside. Sitting alongside the River Dee and surrounded by hills, it’s an outdoor lover’s paradise and a lovely place to stroll, shop, or grab a bite. The town is dotted with shops bearing Royal Warrants, a sign of its royal connections. Many reviews point out that the town’s Victorian Railway Station and local cafes make for a pleasant break.

Travelers mention the village as a highlight—”a stroll around the village reveals an interesting range of specialty shops and good restaurants,” one reviewer noted. It’s a spot that feels both historic and lively, perfect for a relaxed wander.

Cambus O’May Suspension Bridge

The Cambus O’May suspension bridge is a neat slice of history and scenery. Built in 1905, it stretches 50 meters across the River Dee. Travelers often enjoy walking across, taking photos, or exploring nearby woodland trails like the Deeside Way. It’s a quick stop—about 20 minutes—but one that adds a peaceful, scenic pause and a touch of engineering charm.

Tomnaverie Stone Circle

Then there’s the Tomnaverie Stone Circle, a fascinating relic from about 4,500 years ago. This recumbent stone circle, unique to north-eastern Scotland, surrounds a burial cairn. Visitors often find it intriguing due to its mysterious purpose and ancient origins. The stones are laid out in a way that sparks curiosity, and it’s a good chance to imagine Scotland thousands of years ago.

Queen’s View

A top-rated viewpoint outside Tarland, Queen’s View offers sweeping vistas over the Howe of Cromar towards Lochnagar. Legend has it Queen Victoria loved this view, and it’s easy to see why. On clear days, you can see multiple Munros—up to twelve hills—adding to the scenic magic. It’s a brief but stunning stop, perfect for photos and soaking up the landscape.

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews paint a consistent picture: guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging. Many guests highlight Jamie and Alex for their storytelling and warmth, describing their tours as ‘interesting,’ ‘relaxing,’ and ‘well-paced.’ Several reviewers mention that even when Balmoral Castle was closed, the guide’s other suggestions kept the day fulfilling.

People also love the small group size, which makes the tour more intimate, allowing for more questions and personalized service. One traveler said, “I liked the small size. The lunch was a great place,” emphasizing that the experience isn’t just about sights but also about comfort and quality.

The Guide and Experience

A recurring theme in reviews is the guides’ ability to blend education with entertainment. From storytelling about the royal family’s connection to the area to sharing local legends, guides add a layer of richness that makes the experience memorable. Many mention the knowledgeable staff and their friendly demeanor, making the trip feel both informative and fun.

If you’re a fan of Scottish history, stunning views, and learning from passionate guides, this tour hits all those notes.

Practical Aspects & Value

The tour lasts about 7.5 hours, starting at 9:00 am from Union Terrace, Aberdeen. The price of around $135 seems fair considering the number of stops, the small-group setting, and the inclusion of WiFi on board. Since it’s booked an average of 85 days in advance, it’s popular and worth planning ahead.

Lunch isn’t included, but the stops for food and coffee provide plenty of options. You’ll also get a mobile ticket, making it easy to keep your plans flexible.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want an authentic taste of Royal Deeside, enjoy scenic drives, and love stories about Scotland’s history and royalty. It’s ideal for those who appreciate small-group experiences, where you can ask questions and delve deeper into the sights. The tour is also good for those comfortable with moderate physical activity—think walking around villages and outdoor sites—but it’s not designed for intense hiking.

If you’re curious about the royal family, enjoy picturesque views, and want to explore beyond the city, this tour offers a well-rounded, engaging day out.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable if Balmoral Castle is closed?
Yes. When Balmoral is unavailable, the tour switches to include other highlights such as Crathes Castle and scenic stops like Queen’s View, so you still get a fulfilling experience.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, giving you a relaxed pace with plenty of time at each stop for exploration and photos.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers transportation, WiFi on board, and a small-group setting. Entry fees are not included, as with Balmoral Castle, but other sites like Crathes Castle are free to visit.

Can I book this tour well in advance?
Absolutely. It’s commonly booked about 85 days ahead, which indicates good planning for popular seasons.

Is food or lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but there are plenty of cafes and restaurants in Ballater and along the route for a meal or snack.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 7, which makes for a more personalized experience compared to larger bus tours.

Final Thoughts

The Balmoral & Royal Deeside Tour offers a lovely way to explore Scotland’s scenic northeast while soaking in a bit of royal history. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides make it a comfortable and engaging choice, especially if you’re into stories and stunning landscapes. While Balmoral Castle’s access can be weather- or schedule-dependent, the tour’s other stops are equally appealing and give you a well-rounded taste of Royal Deeside.

This trip is particularly suited for history buffs, landscape lovers, and those who want a relaxed, informative day out without the hassle of driving. It’s a good value for what you get—if you’re looking for a memorable Scottish adventure, this tour could well be the highlight of your visit.

For anyone after a balanced mix of culture, scenery, and storytelling, this tour is definitely worth considering.