Inverness , Scotland

Balmoral Castle Tour From Inverness

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About this experience

Balmoral Castle & Royal Lochnagar Distillery From Inverness

Before stopping at the castle we will stop at the crathie kirk church for 30 mins before going on to Balmoral Estate.

In 2025 the grounds, gardens, exhibitions, gift shop and cafe will be open to the Public on a daily basis from 1st April until 31st July. Opening times are from 10.00 a.m. until 5.00 p.m. however please note that the last recommended admission is at 4.30 p.m.

We recommend that you set aside at least one and a half hours for your visit to Balmoral. This will give you time to visit the grounds, gardens, exhibitions, gift shop and the Pipers Hall Cafe.

You will have access to the formal and vegetable gardens, the exhibitions in the stable area and largest room in the Castle, the Ballroom.

Their is also a audio handset tour, which is available in English together with Dutch, French, German, Italian and Spanish translations. The audio tour is only available for admissions before 4.30 p.m.

Available options

Private vehicle

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Hotel pickup

Admission to Balmoral Castle Is Included £18.50 per person

Detailed itinerary

Stopping in carrbridge for a photo of the famous pack horse bridge

The old Kirk is visible from the car park and you may take a walk around the ground before heading in to Balmoral castle and maybe even take a peek inside

Remember this is a community church and may not be open to visit on the day of the tour

Tickets are included for your visit here taking up to 3 hours to enjoy the castle and grounds and maybe the pipers cafe for food

Finishing this tour with the Royal Lochnagar Distillery is the perfect finish to your day before heading back to Inverness

What's not included

The cost of lunch is not included ( at the onsite cafe )

Tastings at Royal Lochnagar are not included

Available languages

Audio guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Inverness

Inverness is a historic city in the Scottish Highlands, known as the capital of the region. It offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, with the iconic Loch Ness and the Culloden Battlefield nearby. The city is a gateway to some of Scotland's most stunning landscapes and ancient sites.

Top Attractions

Inverness Castle

A historic castle overlooking the River Ness, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape.

Historical 1-2 hours £5

Loch Ness

A famous freshwater loch known for its deep, dark waters and the legendary Loch Ness Monster.

Nature Half day to full day Free to visit the loch, attractions vary in price

Culloden Battlefield

The site of the 1746 Battle of Culloden, the last pitched battle fought on British soil.

Historical 2-3 hours £14.50

Inverness Museum and Art Gallery

A museum showcasing the history, art, and culture of the Highlands.

Museum 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Haggis, Neeps and Tatties

A traditional Scottish dish made with haggis (a spiced sheep's offal pudding), mashed turnips (neeps), and mashed potatoes (tatties).

Dinner Contains meat and offal, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Cullen Skink

A creamy smoked haddock soup, traditionally made with potatoes, onions, and milk.

Lunch Contains fish, not suitable for those with fish allergies.

Cranachan

A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, raspberries, honey, and toasted oats.

Dessert Vegetarian-friendly, but contains dairy.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Highlands Boat tours on Loch Ness Visiting spas and wellness centers Strolling along the River Ness Exploring Inverness Museum and Art Gallery Attending local festivals and events Fishing in the River Ness Skiing and snowboarding in the Cairngorms

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and driest time of the year, with long daylight hours. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the surrounding Highlands.

12°C to 18°C 54°F to 64°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Scottish Gaelic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Pound Sterling (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Inverness is generally a safe city, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic safety precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in crowded areas.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and avoid using them in isolated areas.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and agree on a fare before starting your journey.

Getting there

By air

Inverness Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center

By train

Inverness Railway Station

By bus

Inverness Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network covers the city and surrounding areas, with frequent services to major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

City Center Ness Islands Leakey

Day trips

Culloden Battlefield

5 km (3 miles) • Half day

The site of the 1746 Battle of Culloden, the last pitched battle fought on British soil. The visitors center offers interactive exhibits and a museum.

Loch Ness

24 km (15 miles) • Full day

A famous freshwater loch known for its deep, dark waters and the legendary Loch Ness Monster. The Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition offers insights into the loch's history and geology.

Cairngorms National Park

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

The largest national park in the UK, offering a diverse range of landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities.

Festivals

Inverness Highland Games • May Inverness Christmas Market • December

Pro tips

Visit the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery to learn about the history and culture of the Highlands.
Take a boat tour on Loch Ness to search for the legendary Loch Ness Monster and explore the loch's stunning scenery.
Explore the Culloden Battlefield and visitors center to learn about the history of the 1746 Battle of Culloden.
Stroll along the River Ness and visit the Ness Islands for a peaceful and scenic escape from the city.
Sample local whisky and cuisine at one of Inverness's many pubs, restaurants, or whisky bars.