Top 6 Castles around Braemar
Best castles around Braemar are situated in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, a region rich in history and natural landscapes. This picturesque area in Scotland offers a collection of historic castles, ranging from royal residences to ancient ruins. These sites provide insight into Scotland's past and diverse architectural styles.
Best castles around Braemar
- The most popular castles is Loch an Eilein Castle, a castle that stands on a natural island in the Rothiemurchus Forest. This 13th-century castle was built by the Bishop of Moray.
- Another must-see spot is Balmoral Castle, a castle that has been the Scottish home of the Royal Family since 1852. Visitors can tour the grounds, gardens, and exhibitions.
- Visitors also love Kindrochit Castle Ruins, a historical site that dates back to the 11th century AD. It offers a tangible link to Braemar's ancient past.
- Braemar is known for historic fortresses, royal residences, and ancient ruins. These sites offer insights into Scotland's past and diverse architectural styles.
- The castles around Braemar are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 400 upvotes and over 130 photos shared.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
Loch an Eilein Castle
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In the late 18th century the water level of Loch An Eilein was raised during the course of estate works, shrinking the island and covering the causeway. Today the castle is an inaccessible ruin and is home to nesting ospreys.
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Loch an Eilein
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Balmoral Castle
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The estate covers about 243 km², including several small villages. About 50 employees work all year round on Balmoral, more than the same number in addition to the season.
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Balmoral Castle
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Braemar Castle
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Today it's owned by the local community with an excellently preserved interior. It's very much worth a visit and can be linked into a wonderful circular walk from Braemar around Creag Choinnich.
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This famous summer residence of the British royal family can only be visited in spring and early summer with an entrance ticket through the main entrance. This provides access to the castle gardens and the castle ballroom, where a different exhibition is held each year. There is also a café and a gift shop. Cycling is prohibited around the castle, but with a ticket, we were allowed to explore the grounds with our bikes in hand. We parked our bikes near the café. Since 2025, a few tickets per day have also been available for enthusiasts to visit the castle's private apartments in small groups, including the room where Queen Elizabeth II's last photograph was taken. Very special, but also highly sought-after and expensive.
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Around Loch an Eileen, you'll find a lovely, winding gravel bike path. It's not technical, just pure enjoyment in the beautiful scenery.
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This famous summer residence of the British royal family can only be visited during spring and early summer with an entrance ticket through the main entrance. This provides access to the castle gardens and the castle ballroom, where a different exhibition is held each year. There is also a café and a gift shop. Since 2025, a few tickets per day have also been available for enthusiasts to visit the castle's private apartments in small groups, including the room where Queen Elizabeth II's last photograph was taken. Very special, but also highly sought-after and expensive.
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This famous summer residence of the British royal family can only be visited in spring and early summer with an entrance ticket through the main entrance. This provides access to the castle gardens and the castle ballroom, where a different exhibition is held each year. There is also a café and a gift shop. Cycling is prohibited around the castle, but with a ticket, we were allowed to explore the grounds with our bikes in hand. We parked our bikes near the café. Since 2025, a few tickets per day have also been available for enthusiasts to visit the castle's private apartments in small groups, including the room where Queen Elizabeth II's last photograph was taken. Very special, but also highly sought-after and expensive.
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Around Loch an Eileen, you'll find a lovely, winding gravel bike path. It's not technical, just pure enjoyment in the beautiful scenery.
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Perfect spot to rest a little and get a more than memorable photo :)
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The castle is currently closed for renovation or restoration.
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Sections of the ride are steep and full of gravel, so riding uphill can be a struggle. There is a narrow path, which meets up with the main path again, which is easier to ride.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular castles to visit around Braemar?
Among the most popular are Loch an Eilein Castle, known for its island setting in Rothiemurchus Forest, and Balmoral Castle, the Scottish home of the Royal Family. Visitors also frequently explore the ancient Kindrochit Castle Ruins right in Braemar village.
Are there family-friendly castles in the Braemar area?
Yes, several castles are suitable for families. Balmoral Castle offers extensive grounds and exhibitions. Loch an Eilein Castle, while a ruin, is set in a beautiful location perfect for walks. The Kindrochit Castle Ruins are easily accessible and free to explore, with information boards for context.
What historical insights can I gain from visiting castles near Braemar?
The castles offer a deep dive into Scotland's past. Kindrochit Castle Ruins date back to the 11th century, highlighting Braemar's ancient significance. Braemar Castle, a 17th-century fortress, showcases Jacobite history and its role as a government garrison. Balmoral Castle provides a glimpse into royal history, having been a Scottish royal residence since 1852.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The area around Braemar is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, such as the 'Balmoral Castle and River Dee loop' or 'Glen Lui & Glen Quoich loop', which you can explore further in the Cycling around Braemar guide. There are also MTB trails and waterfall hikes, like the 'Garbh Allt Shiel waterfalls loop', detailed in the Waterfall hikes around Braemar guide and MTB Trails around Braemar guide.
Are there walking trails associated with castles in the Braemar region?
Yes, many castles are situated within scenic areas with walking opportunities. For instance, Loch an Eilein Castle is located in Rothiemurchus Forest, offering beautiful shoreline walks. While Balmoral Castle itself has extensive grounds and gardens to explore, you can also find routes like the 'Balmoral Castle and River Dee loop' for cycling or walking nearby.
What is the best time of year to visit castles near Braemar?
The best time to visit often depends on the castle. For Balmoral Castle, the gardens and ballroom are typically open to the public between April and July. Other castles and ruins, like Kindrochit Castle Ruins, are accessible year-round, though weather in the Cairngorms National Park can be unpredictable, so checking local conditions is always advised.
Is there parking available at the castles around Braemar?
Parking information varies by castle. For example, Dalmunzie Castle Hotel offers parking, sometimes for a small fee, or a free hiker's car park nearby. For other sites like Balmoral Castle, dedicated visitor parking is available during opening seasons. It's always recommended to check specific castle websites for the most current parking details.
Can I visit the interiors of Braemar Castle?
Braemar Castle, a 17th-century fortress with a star-shaped curtain wall, is now community-owned and open to the public. Its historic interiors offer a unique insight into Scotland's past, including stone-vaulted rooms and original iron defenses. You can learn more about its opening times and visitor information on its official website or related tourism sites like VisitCairngorms.
What makes <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/265214" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Loch an Eilein Castle</a> unique?
Loch an Eilein Castle is unique because it stands on a natural island in the Rothiemurchus Forest. This 13th-century castle, though now an inaccessible ruin, is known for its picturesque setting and is home to nesting ospreys. Visitors enjoy the brilliant views from the shoreline and the local myths and legends surrounding the island.
Are there any viewpoints to see <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/75703" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Balmoral Castle</a> from a distance?
Yes, for a stunning panoramic view of the royal residence, consider visiting Prince Leopold’s Cairn. Many visitors consider this spot to offer the best view of Balmoral Castle.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Braemar?
Visitors appreciate the rich history and natural beauty surrounding these sites. The unique architecture of castles like Braemar Castle, the ancient origins of Kindrochit Castle Ruins, and the royal connection of Balmoral Castle are frequently highlighted. The picturesque settings, often within the Cairngorms National Park, also contribute to a memorable experience.
How far is <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/75703" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Balmoral Castle</a> from Braemar village?
Balmoral Castle is approximately 7.1 miles from Braemar village, making it an easily accessible attraction for those staying in the area.
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