Frequently asked questions

What is Royal Deeside known for?

Royal Deeside takes its name from the River Dee and its long association with the British royal family, who have used Balmoral Castle as their Scottish residence since Queen Victoria fell in love with the landscape in 1848. The valley is known for its outstanding natural beauty, ancient Caledonian pinewoods, world-class walking and cycling, an extraordinary concentration of castles, and charming Victorian villages. It also sits within the Cairngorms National Park, the largest national park in the UK.

How far is Royal Deeside from Aberdeen?

Banchory, the eastern gateway to Royal Deeside, is around 17 miles west of Aberdeen, approximately 30 minutes by car on the A93. Ballater is around 40 miles from Aberdeen, roughly 50 minutes by car. Braemar at the head of the valley is around 58 miles from the city, just over an hour's drive. Regular bus services connect Aberdeen to Banchory, Aboyne, Ballater, and Braemar.

When can I visit Balmoral Castle?

Balmoral Castle grounds and gardens are typically open to visitors from April to July each year, when the royal family is not in residence. A selection of rooms in the castle are also open during this period. It is advisable to check the Balmoral Castle website for current opening times and admission information before visiting, as these can vary year to year.

What is the best way to get around Royal Deeside?

A car gives you the most flexibility for exploring the valley and reaching the more remote castles, viewpoints, and walking trailheads. That said, the Deeside Way walking and cycling route connects many of the main villages and is an excellent car-free option for those who prefer to travel under their own steam. Bus services operated by Stagecoach Bluebird connect Aberdeen to the main Deeside villages, making day trips possible without a car.

When is the Braemar Gathering?

The Braemar Gathering takes place on the first Saturday of September each year at the Princess Royal and Duke of Fife Memorial Park in Braemar. It is the most famous Highland Games in Scotland, featuring traditional athletics, dancing, and piping, and is regularly attended by members of the royal family. Tickets sell out well in advance and booking early is strongly recommended.

Is Royal Deeside good for families?

Royal Deeside is an excellent destination for families. The Deeside Way is ideal for family cycling, the castles at Crathes and Craigievar capture young imaginations, and the farm shops and open countryside provide plenty of space to explore. The Aboyne Bike Park at Bellwood has trails for younger riders, and the wildlife of the valley, from red squirrels to red deer, adds a further dimension to any family visit.

What wildlife can I see in Royal Deeside?

The valley is outstanding for wildlife. Red squirrels are common in the ancient pinewoods around Ballater and Braemar, ospreys fish the river during summer, and red kites are increasingly frequent overhead. Red deer are a regular sight on the open hillsides, particularly in autumn, and the River Dee itself supports otters and Atlantic salmon. The upper valley within the Cairngorms National Park offers the chance to encounter mountain hare, ptarmigan, and golden eagle on higher ground.

What is the best time of year to visit Royal Deeside?

Royal Deeside rewards a visit at any time of year. Summer brings the longest days, the best weather for hillwalking, and the opening of Balmoral Castle to visitors. Autumn is spectacular, with golden birch and rowan trees lining the valley, the red deer rut in full swing, and the salmon running in the Dee. Winter is quiet and atmospheric, with snow on the mountains and a stillness to the landscape that is hard to find elsewhere. Spring sees the Caledonian pinewoods come alive with birdsong and the first flush of new growth along the riverbanks.