Hi,
I read on-line that Balmoral Castle is now offering a tour (select/small group/only certain dates) of the inside of the castle. Not sure how long they have offered, but has anyone done this tour? Is it worth the 110 pound ticket cost per person?
Thanks,
Posted by
Banchory, Scotland
288 posts
I misread this question last night and so this is my second response although my answer is the same and I don't think it's worth the £110 cost. It might be even more next year.
There are many other castles in Scotland with rooms open and interesting guided tours for a price at a great deal less than Balmoral are charging. Unless it is a bucket list item I'd give Balmoral a miss and choose somewhere else to go.
Someone I know did the inside tour and said it is very artefact led and most of the stories are about Queen Victoria, which does of course make sense. The rooms are all downstairs and no photography is allowed. I am guessing the select numbers are to do with preserving the building. Having worked there myself in the dim and distant past I can say the rooms are quite small and large groups of people passing through will do damage by the simple act of breathing in and out.
Posted by
Duluth🌲
9315 posts
It looks like it's just for the summer months (May, June and July 2025), although I'm wondering if they will do this again next summer. I agree that there are better castles in Scotland to visit, but if you're a follower of the Royal Family, then it may be worth it.
For the first time since 1856, experience the grandeur and heritage of Balmoral Castle with an interior guided tour, led by our experienced and knowledgeable guides. This unforgettable experience takes you through a selection of beautiful rooms within the Castle, offering an up-close look at Royal life. These exclusive tours will run during the summer season and are restricted to ten people per tour, with limited ticket availability.
The Afternoon Tea experience is available as an addition to the castle tour when booking an afternoon slot. Tickets are available during May, June, and July 2025.
Here's a link that explains it in more detail: https://balmoralcastle.com/visiting/balmoral-estate/explore/guided-tours/castle-tours
Posted by
Duluth🌲
9315 posts
Kathy S, it looks like all the tickets available are sold out, so no need to worry about whether it's worth it. See https://balmoralcastle.digitickets.co.uk/availability?catID=60534 for more details.
I sort of assumed it might be. With such a limited schedule and the tours limited to 10 people each, I'm sure tickets were snapped up right away.