Ballater
A Victorian-style town on the River Dee, with old shops hung with royal warrant crests. It is the main base for exploring Royal Deeside.
Ballater lies about 13 km east of Balmoral Castle. It grew up in the Victorian era thanks to its hot springs and royal visits. Granite buildings are arranged around green spaces and a church, and butchers and grocers often display "By Appointment" royal crests above their doors. The restored Old Royal Station shows the history of Queen Victoria arriving by train in Deeside. It now houses a visitor center, a restaurant and a library. The Craigendarroch hill behind the town has a loop trail of about one hour, with views over the valley. The town has the most accommodation and dining in the area, which makes it a good base for Loch Muick and Lochnagar. Bus 201 runs direct from Aberdeen.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Cambus o' May Suspension Bridge
- Burn o' Vat
- Royal Lochnagar Distillery
- Loch Muick
- Crathie Kirk
- Balmoral Castle
- Glen Tanar
- Lochnagar