King Charles is preparing to welcome visitors to his Scottish residence with an exciting announcement.
The monarch has decided to open the grounds, gardens, and galleries of Balmoral Castle to the public, offering a unique opportunity to explore the historic estate.
As the king of England, Charles owns several majestic properties with rich historical significance, and Balmoral Castle is among them.
Located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, Balmoral Castle will be open to the public from March 23rd to Sunday, August 11th.
This annual opening allows visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty and grandeur of the castle’s grounds and experience a taste of royal life.
The doors of the castle are thrown open each year, inviting guests to enjoy its splendor and history.
Following the death of Queen Elizabeth, King Charles acquired ownership of Balmoral Castle in 2022.
The estate is now managed by trustees, who oversee its day-to-day operations under deeds of nomination and appointment.
Originally purchased by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria in 1852, the castle has since been a cherished royal residence, hosting generations of the British royal family.
Prince Albert’s decision to build a new castle on the estate was driven by the desire to create a larger and more suitable home for the royal family.
Completed in 1856, the new commission replaced the original structure, providing a grand and spacious residence fit for royalty.
Queen Elizabeth, like her predecessors, had a deep connection to Balmoral, finding solace and comfort in its expansive 500,000 acres of lush grounds.
Balmoral Castle holds special significance for the royal family, as it was where the late Duke of Edinburgh proposed to Queen Elizabeth and where they spent their honeymoon in 1947.
Following her ascension to the throne in 1952, the queen made annual visits to Balmoral, staying there from July to October each year.
The estate’s rich history includes the tradition of the Gillies Ball, an event dating back to the Victorian era, where castle staff were honored and celebrated for their hard work.
In a rare glimpse into royal life, a documentary crew captured Queen Elizabeth dancing at the Gillies Ball with Prince Charles, Princess Anne, Princess Diana, and the queen mother.
The late queen’s deep connection to Balmoral is evident in a poignant photo of her and Prince Philip embracing in the estate’s pastures, a fitting tribute to their enduring love.
It was at Balmoral that the queen spent her final days, surrounded by the natural beauty she cherished.
In 2022, following the queen’s passing, King Charles considered transforming Balmoral Castle into a museum in honor of his late mother.
Currently, the castle’s grounds are open to the public during specific months in winter, offering visitors the chance to stroll through the picturesque surroundings, admire the castle’s exterior, and explore the museum gift shop and cafe.
Balmoral Castle stands as a testament to the royal family’s enduring legacy and connection to Scotland’s rich history.