Royal Deeside - From Jacobite Risings to Royal Retreats

Royal Deeside, nestled within the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, is a region steeped in history, natural splendor, and royal heritage. Natural beauty abounds here, with Caledonian pine-forested glens, rugged mountains such as the Lochnagar which immortalised in the poetry of Lord Byron, and the River Dee itself which originates here high up in the Cairngorms massif and meanders its way out to the east coast at the city of Aberdeen and is regarded as one of Scotland's most renowned salmon rivers. The modern identity of the Royal Deeside is intimately associated with Balmoral Estate and its role as the private retreat to the Royal Family that Queen Victoria and Prince Albert purchased in 1852. Yet, the century prior, Deeside was a hotbed of Jacobite activity and dissent against the British Crown; in 1715, the Earl of Mar raised the standard for the Jacobites in Braemar, a village within Royal Deeside, igniting a rebellion aimed at restoring the Stuart dynasty to the British throne. Following Queen Victoria’s purchase of the Balmoral Estates, she developed a profound affection for the area, Highland tradition and the Highland people. Queen Victoria’s embrace of the Highlands and the ways of its people played a vitally important role in reconciling the Highlands with the British monarchy following decades of prior Jacobite unrest.

Tour Highlights

The Forth Bridge, Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven, Cairngorms National Park, Ballater, Balmoral Castle, Royal Crathie Kirk, Linn o' Dee, Glen Shee

The Itinerary

The Forth Bridge: This Victorian engineering marvel is a UNESCO site, and we'll get spectacular views of it from the charming village of North Queensferry.

Dunnottar Castle: Tour the dramatic clifftop ruins of Dunnottar Castle. Perched precariously on a rocky promontory overlooking the North Sea, this impregnable fortress has witnessed centuries of Scottish history and is one of Scotland’s most iconic castles.

Stonehaven: Indulge in a quintessential Scottish experience with traditional Fish and Chips from a local chippy in the charming harbour town of Stonehaven. Enjoy your meal overlooking the bustling harbour, breathing in the fresh sea air.

Royal Deeside: Our journey will then follow the course of the River Dee as it winds its way through the pine forested glens of Royal Deeside. This picturesque region, nestled within the Cairngorms National Park, has been a favourite retreat of the Royal Family since the time of Queen Victoria.

Ballater: We'll explore the charming Victorian town of Ballater, a gateway to the Cairngorms and a favourite of the Royal Family. Stroll through its streets and browse the shops that proudly serve the royals.

Balmoral Castle: A highlight of Royal Deeside is a visit to Balmoral Castle, the private residence of the British monarch in Scotland. Explore the magnificent grounds set alongside the River Dee, view the castle and nearby Royal Crathie Kirk and learn about the castle's history and its connection to the Royal Family. Note: Interior access to Balmoral Castle is prohibited.

Linn o' Dee: We venture to the majestic Linn o' Dee, where the upper reaches of the River Dee plunge through the narrow gorge.

Braemar: We pay a visit to the charming town of Braemar nestled a stunning glen and a town steeped in the Highland Games tradition.

Glen Shee: We culminate the day with a scenic drive through the moorland wilderness of Glen Shee en route back to Edinburgh.

Optional Activities

Royal Lochnagar Distillery: Nestled near Balmoral Castle, the Royal Lochnagar Distillery offers tours and tastings.

Falls of Feugh Restaurant: Alternatively, indulge in a delightful afternoon tea at this charming riverside venue near the town of Banchory.