Balmoral Castle, the estate where Queen Elizabeth II passed away last September, will reopen its doors this weekend (April 1st).
The estate in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, opens to the public from April to July every year – and despite the events of the previous months – 2023 is no exception. This reopening will, however, come with some changes – the most significant being the launch of its first exhibition, 'Monarchs at Balmoral.'
The show will consist of a photographic display of the family enjoying Balmoral Castle for more than a century. Described as a 'journey from the era of Queen Victoria to the present day,' the photographs will pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth, who was known to visit the royal residence for her annual summer vacation.
'Our exhibition will celebrate the Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort together with a photographic display of Royal Monarchs at Balmoral,' the estate shared. 'An amazing historical collection of over 200 photographs, some of which have not been seen before in public, focusing on the late Queen Elizabeth, portraying her time at Balmoral.'
Alongside the opportunity to witness some rare royal photographs, a ticket to Balmoral grants access to the Ballroom – the only room open to visitors inside the Castle. There is, however, plenty of ways to spend your time exploring its grounds.
At approximately 50,000 acres, the estate sprawls across mountains, forests, valleys, and lochs before visitors even reach the manicured gardens.
There are also 150 buildings on the estate, including the Castle, which is currently the private property of the monarch (and not part of the Crown Estate). Other notable structures include King Charles' house at Birkhall, Craigowan Lodge, and several other cottages (one is reportedly Prince and Princess of Wales, according to Edinburgh Live).
Regular adult tickets cost approximately $20.40 (£16.50), but there is an opportunity to elevate the Balmoral experience further by staying in one of the holiday cottages on the grounds.
According to Balmoral Estate, Colt Cottages, Connachat Cottage, Karim Cottage, Knocks Cottage, and Rhebreck Lodge are available throughout the year – with the exception of when the royals are visiting. If visiting for the day, we can only recommend pairing the trip with King Charles' coronation (on May 6th) amid celebrations.
The estate promises vintage buses, a falconry display, and Ballater Pipe Band alongside multiple screens showcasing the London-based event. You can discover more (and buy tickets) via Balmoral's site.
