Balmoral Castle & Aberdeenshire

Today’s excursion begins with a visit to Balmoral Castle, the grand Scottish holiday home of the Royal Family, which was purchased for Queen Victoria by Prince Albert in 1852. At the time, they were enchanted by the scenery of the Highlands. Being one of two personal residences, Balmoral offers us an insight into the priorities and pleasures of the Royal family, as we explore the exquisite grounds, which include meticulously maintained formal, water and vegetable gardens.

Afterwards, we travel to the picturesque village of Ballater in the heart of Royal Deeside. Take a stroll to admire the historic buildings, browse the Ballater Gallery, which showcases Scottish artists with international reputations, or discover the painstakingly restored royal waiting room at the Royal Station, which re-opened in August 2018 after a devastating fire.

Please note: Balmoral Castle access is to the grounds, gardens and Ballroom.

Balmoral Castle & Aberdeenshire

Today we travel to Stonehaven, a picturesque harbour town on the North East coast of Scotland. Here we can discover the Stonehaven Tolbooth Museum, stroll along the sheltered harbour to enjoy the fresh sea air or simply sit back and relax in one of the lovely cafés or restaurants.

Next, we return to Aberdeen for some free time in the ‘Granite City’. Described as “one of the most architecturally distinctive cities in Europe” thanks to its sparkling Granite buildings and monuments.   

There’s plenty to discover, from Old Aberdeen, with its cobbled streets and 15th-century cathedral, to the quirky fishing quarter of Footdee at the water’s edge, and the many shops dotted along the mile-long Union Street.