Where the royals go on holiday: Balmoral Castle opens to tourists for the first time

The guided tours are offered between July 1st and August 4th, before King Charles III. and his wife Queen Camilla traditionally spend their summer holidays on the estate in the Scottish Highlands.

An expensive journey through time

However, given the high prices, the “travel through time”, as the administration calls the tours, is only an option for a few visitors. A tour with a maximum of ten participants costs 100 pounds (116.70 euros) per person; a tour including afternoon tea, which includes tea and sandwiches, costs 150 pounds. A maximum of 40 tickets are available each day. Some dates are already sold out.

The royals have a close connection to Balmoral Castle, which belongs to the monarch personally. Prince Albert, Queen Victoria’s husband, bought the property in 1852 and had a new, larger building built. The original castle was demolished. Charles’ mother, Queen Elizabeth II, spent many weeks here every summer and also went on hikes in the area. She died at the property on September 8, 2022.

Access from May to August

It is the first time since the castle was completed in 1855 that private tours have been offered, the administration said. Tourists have been able to visit Balmoral for a long time. However, entry is limited to the gardens and park as well as the ballroom. This year, entry is possible from May 4th to August 11th.

The east wing of Buckingham Palace will also be opening for the first time this year. Between July 15th and August 31st, visitors to the city palace can view the so-called Center Room, as the Royal Collection Trust announced. The royal family gathers in this hall before appearing on the balcony at major events such as the coronation. But you weren’t allowed to step out onto the balcony, they said.