Castles

There are over 100 castles in Aberdeenshire. Some are still lived in, some are just ruins, whilst others show no trace of ever being there. Some are open to the public, whereas others are private.

Just 8 miles from Ballater is one of the most famous castles in Scotland – Balmoral – the Scottish holiday home to the Royal Family. 

From April - July and in the winter months you can take a tour of the castle and its grounds. Between August - October the grounds, gardens and exhibitions are closed to the Public as The Royal Family are in residence.

Another castle very close by is Braemar Castle (16 miles from Ballater).

Why not don your boots and head out to discover two ruined castles very close by - Knock Castle south of the River Dee or Abergairn Castle just west of Craigendarroch.