The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral yesterday - one of her favourite places in the world.
The death of our longest-serving monarch has sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes from the nation, with many supporters likely to travel to the Scottish estate to pay their respects.
Aberdeenshire Council has released information for those wishing to make the journey to the castle following the sad news of Her Majesty's passing.
Here's everything you need to know if you're visiting Balmoral in the coming days...
Travelling to Balmoral today
Park and Ride facilities will operate from Ballater and Braemar for those wishing to leave floral tributes and pay their respects to Her Majesty The Queen at Balmoral Castle gates.
Buses will be departing from both villages for Balmoral throughout the day.
Access to the castle gates by road will not be permitted.
Disabled car parking facilities will be provided in the coach park at the Crathie Bridge.
Can you leave flowers?
Delineated walkways will be in place to direct members of the public from the car park to the Balmoral Gates where floral tributes will be accepted.
Members of the public are advised that there will be limited rest facilities at the estate and are asked to return to Ballater or Braemar after paying their respects. There will be neither the space nor the facilities to allow the public to gather in the area.
There will also be restrictions regarding what can be taken on the buses, with signage in the locations to this effect.
In particular, only floral tributes will be permitted – no other items such as candles, soft toys or photographs should be brought.
Please also be aware the weather is very wet and queueing is likely, so please dress appropriately as there is no shelter.
List of prohibited items
- personal defence items - e.g flick knives
- sharp items - including screwdrivers and cutlery
- banners, placards, flags
- fireworks
- bags larger than 21cm x 14.8cm
- paint sprays
- illegal drugs or substances
- wheeled footwear or skateboards
- tribute items - including candles, teddy bears, photographs
- padlocks, chains and climbing gear
- items that make a loud noise - e.g whistles and air horns
- wearing or motorcycle helmets in crowds or in queues
Buses to Balmoral
Ballater
The Park and Ride will operate from Monaltrie Park from 10am until 7pm daily.
Braemar
The facilities for the Braemar Park and Ride will begin and end next to Braemar Castle at the same times as above.
