Private Balmoral Glamis Dunnottar Castles Tour from Aberdeen

Aberdeen , Scotland

Private Balmoral Glamis Dunnottar Castles Tour from Aberdeen

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(4 reviews)

9h - 11h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

A truly amazing day out visiting some of the most stunning, famous and iconic castles in Scotland (Aberdeenshire is spoilt with its number). The day is fully guided by your driver and or castle staff.
We go to a castle for lunch.
This is a private tour for your party & includes pick up/drop off.
The route and itinerary can be changed to suit. Please advise us of any required changes.
As of Sep 2023 Balmoral have extended their opening dates. Glamis is open Spring to Winter. Contact us for details.
If you would like to visit a distillery instead of a castle, please let us know so we can book a tasting tour. Advance booking required for distilleries.
Most castles grounds are free to access (except Balmoral) but all charge for internal tours.
All attractions subject to seasonal opening times. Please contact us for details.
Please note at Dunnottar there is a gentle slope from carpark to see it, but to go inside there is a long staircase.

Available options

Private Balmoral Glamis Dunnottar Castles Tour from Aberdeen

Pickup included

What's included

Pick up from your Aberdeen hotel, accommodation, train station or cruise liner.

Private minivan and private diver/guide.

Route and timings will depend on starting point and your choice of attractions.

Detailed itinerary

Pick up from your Aberdeen hotel / accommodation.

Stop 2

Fascinating 16th Century Castle with turrets, gargoyles and ancient, great yew hedges and walled gardens set in magnificent surroundings. You can enjoy this castle for free, but to go inside costs £15 (includes access to the gardens).

This iconic castle has been the Scottish home of the Royal Family since it was purchased for Queen Victoria by Prince Albert in 1852. A must on many visitors to see list. (£18.50 pp). As of Sept 2023 they have extended the opening dates. Please contact us for details/dates.

Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch, surrounded by amazing art in this sumptuous Scottish themed destination hotel.
Strictly subject to availability as very popular venue.

This stunning castle has 650 years of history and is famously the birth place of the Queens Mother. (£10 pp). Open March to October. You can enjoy this castle for free but to go inside costs £16. Please contact us re opening dates.

One of Scotland's and the world's most spectacular ruined castles, Dunnottar is a ancient medieval fortress located upon a rocky headland near Stonehaven. The surviving buildings date from the 13th to the 16th centuries, but was originally fortified in the Early Middle Ages. You can enjoy this castle for free, but to go inside costs £10pp.

OPTION: Instead of a castle you may wish to visit the world famous, Royal Lochnagar distillery, which was established in 1845. Please let us know. It is a single malt Scotch whisky producer based near Balmoral Castle. You will be able to learn how it is made and sample some drams. Always requires advance booking (£20 pp).

What's not included

Lunch

Balmoral Castle - Pay at gate to enter grounds and castle. Pre booking recommended.

Glamis Castle - Pay at gate to enter grounds and castle. Pre booking recommended.

Dunnottar Castle - Free to see from outside. Pay at door to enter castle. No Pre booking.

Pick up from hotels over 20 miles from Aberdeen City -£20 surcharge.

Pick up from hotels more that 40 miles from Aberdeen City - £40 surcharge.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

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4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

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2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Aberdeen

Aberdeen, known as the Granite City for its distinctive grey granite architecture, is a vibrant coastal city in northeast Scotland. It offers a unique blend of historic charm, modern amenities, and stunning coastal scenery, making it an appealing destination for a variety of travelers.

Top Attractions

Dunnottar Castle

Dunnottar Castle is a dramatic ruined medieval fortress perched on a rocky headland on the north-east coast of Scotland. It's famous for its stunning views and rich history.

Historical 1-2 hours £8.50 (adult), £5.00 (child)

Aberdeen Maritime Museum

This museum tells the story of Aberdeen's maritime history and its relationship with the North Sea oil industry. It's housed in a former shipyard management building.

Museum 1-2 hours Free

Aberdeen Beach

Aberdeen Beach is a popular spot for walks, water sports, and relaxation. The beach is known for its golden sand and clear waters.

Beach 1-2 hours Free

St. Machar's Cathedral

This historic cathedral is known for its beautiful architecture and the famous 'Mazie Stone' with its intricate carvings.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Footdee (Fittie) Village

Footdee is a charming fishing village within Aberdeen, known for its colorful cottages and rich maritime history.

Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cullen Skink

A creamy smoked haddock soup with potatoes and onions, originating from the nearby town of Cullen.

Soup Contains fish and dairy.

Aberdeen Angus Beef

High-quality beef known for its tenderness and flavor, often served as steak or in traditional Scottish dishes.

Main Course Contains beef.

Langoustines

Small, sweet lobster-like crustaceans, often served grilled or in salads.

Seafood Contains shellfish.

Shortbread

A traditional Scottish biscuit made with butter, sugar, and flour, often served with tea or coffee.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy.

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Surfing Climbing Beach walks Spa treatments Golfing Tea rooms

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Aberdeen, offering the warmest weather and longest daylight hours. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.

12°C to 18°C 54°F to 64°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Scots, Scottish Gaelic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Pound Sterling (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (GMT+1 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Aberdeen is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps to avoid overcharging.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight to deter pickpockets.

Getting there

By air

Aberdeen International Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center

By train

Aberdeen Railway Station

By bus

Aberdeen Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network is the primary form of public transport in Aberdeen, with frequent services covering the city and surrounding areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Aberdeen Union Street Footdee (Fittie) West End

Day trips

Balmoral Castle

25 km (15 miles) • Half day to full day

Balmoral Castle is the private residence of the British royal family and is open to the public during the summer months. Visitors can explore the castle's gardens, exhibitions, and the nearby estate.

Stonehaven

25 km (15 miles) • Half day to full day

Stonehaven is a charming coastal town known for its historic harbor, Dunottar Castle, and the annual Stonehaven Fireball Ceremony.

Cairngorms National Park

60 km (37 miles) • Full day to overnight

Cairngorms National Park is the largest national park in the UK, offering a variety of outdoor activities and stunning landscapes.

Festivals

Aberdeen International Youth Festival • July Aberdeen Jazz Festival • October Aberdeen Christmas Market • November-December

Pro tips

Visit the historic sites of Old Aberdeen, including King's College and St. Machar's Cathedral.
Explore the charming fishing village of Footdee (Fittie) and enjoy a meal at one of the local seafood restaurants.
Take a day trip to Dunnottar Castle for stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Scotland's history.
Sample the local cuisine, including Cullen skink, Aberdeen Angus beef, and langoustines.
Experience the vibrant cultural scene, with festivals, museums, and historic theaters.