King Charles has officially reopened his Scottish residence, Balmoral Castle, to the public following its winter closure. The announcement was made on the castle’s official Instagram account on January 17, indicating that tickets for visits during the spring and summer of 2026 are now available for online booking. The castle, located within a sprawling 50,000-acre estate in Aberdeenshire, will welcome guests from March 28 to mid-August, providing access to its grounds, gardens, and various attractions.
During this season, visitors can explore the stunning Ballroom Exhibition, browse the Mews Gift Shop, and enjoy meals at the on-site restaurant. Additionally, afternoon tea will be offered throughout the summer, and interior tours of the castle will take place on select dates. For those seeking a unique experience, the Balmoral Expedition Tour provides a chance to discover the estate via a Land Rover ride.
Royal Legacy and Personal Connections
Balmoral Castle typically closes its doors in late August as the royal family retreats to the Scottish countryside for the summer. During this period, King Charles and Queen Camilla often reside at Birkhall, a more intimate residence on the estate. In contrast, Balmoral Castle features grand accommodations, including 52 bedrooms, an impressive entrance hall adorned with 22 stuffed stag heads, and a bronze statue of Malcolm of Canmore, the 11th-century king associated with the legend of Macbeth.
In 2024, the BBC highlighted the personal touches throughout Balmoral, such as fishing rods and walking sticks that evoke memories of King Charles’s time spent in the estate’s fields, reminiscent of iconic photographs of Lady Diana near the River Dee.
A Place of Significance
Balmoral holds profound sentimental value for the British royal family. It was a cherished retreat for King Charles during his childhood summers with his siblings. The estate also served as a significant location for Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away in 2022 and spent her final days there.
Reflecting on the importance of Balmoral, Charles addressed Scotland’s enduring significance during a speech commemorating 25 years of the Scottish Parliament. He expressed, “Scotland has always had a uniquely special place in the hearts of my family and myself,” noting his “beloved grandmother was proudly Scottish.” He further reminisced about his late mother, stating, “My late mother especially treasured the time spent at Balmoral, and it was there, in the most beloved of places, where she chose to spend her final days.”
The opening of Balmoral Castle for public visits not only invites guests to appreciate its beauty and history but also reaffirms its status as a key cultural landmark within Scotland and the broader royal heritage.
