Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens
Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens
Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens
4.5
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
Ballindalloch Castle is one of Scotland’s most romantic castles, set in the magnificent surroundings of the Spey Valley and known as ‘The Pearl of the North’. Ballindalloch, the highland home of the lairds of Ballindalloch since 1546, is one of the very few privately owned castles to have been lived in continuously by its original family.
Originally built on the traditional Z-plan in the mid-16th century, the Castle has subsequently been greatly altered and enlarged, resulting in the fairly tale exterior visible today. The architecture is completed by interiors ranging from the atmospheric Guard Tower, accessed by an original stone staircase, to the elegance and comfort of the 18th-century formal rooms.
The formal grounds of Ballindalloch Castle were principally laid down in the second half of the 19th Century, following the extensive restorations to the Castle made around 1850.
Suggested duration
More than 3 hours
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4.5
407 reviews
Excellent
281
Very good
95
Average
16
Poor
12
Terrible
3
miguelgeddes
15 contributions
Aug 2023 • Friends
Although we live locally, we have never visited the castle and grounds before today. Fortunately, the weather was pleasant and so before visiting the castle, we were able to explore the walled garden and grounds, including the river walk. The grounds were immaculate and we decided to have a snack in the excellent café. The food was delicious and, we thought, very reasonably priced. The castle itself was very easily managed. There was adequate information on hand in each room without it being overwhelming. Everywhere was immaculately clean and this included the excellent toilets. One of the highlights of our visit we thought was the audiovisual presentation done by Guy MacPherson Grant.
Written 30 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for visiting Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens, and for taking the time to post a review of your visit. We're always happy to receive feedback and to get an insight into visitors’ experiences. We're delighted to know that you had a great day out and enjoyed the Castle experience as well as exploring the Estate and its setting in all its beauty.
The team's dedication and hard work contribute so much to the ambience of the Castle, Tearoom, Gardens and Grounds and we are so pleased to hear that their efforts are appreciated! Haste ye back!
Written 13 September 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
CarolineWR
U.K.275 contributions
Aug 2023 • Couples
Lovely 15c fortress tower with the usual Jacobean & Victorian extensions & improvements. A satisfying number of dinky turrets, winding staircases & beautifully furnished rooms to explore. No guided tours, so you are free to explore, but sadly no photographs inside. Excellent value café - can recommend their soup & sandwich combo. Walled garden slightly away from the castle & pleasant, open lawn with a few flowers - not as stunning as some of the local castle gardens. Ballindaloch is part of the Historic Houses group. If you are touring Aberdeenshire castles, would recommend you get membership - we saved 6 entry fees, totalling £127!
Written 29 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for visiting Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens, and for taking the time to post a review of your visit. We're always happy to receive feedback and to get an insight into visitors’ experiences. We're delighted to know that you had a great day out and enjoyed the Castle experience as well as exploring the Estate and its setting in all its beauty.
The team's dedication and hard work contribute so much to the ambience of the Castle, Tearoom, Gardens and Grounds and we are so pleased to hear that their efforts are appreciated! Haste ye back!
Written 13 September 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jennifer B
Aboyne, UK98 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
Spent a lovely day here catching up with old friends. The castle is immaculate with an interesting family history. Luckily visited on a beautiful sunny day so fully enjoyed the gardens and river walk. Delicious food in the cafe as well. Worth a visit.
Written 23 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for visiting Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens, and for taking the time to post a review of your visit. We're always happy to receive feedback and to get an insight into visitors’ experiences. We're delighted to know that you had a great day out and enjoyed the Castle experience as well as exploring the Estate and its setting in all its beauty. Thank you very much for your kind remarks. We shall make sure that we pass those on to the team. The team's dedication and hard work contribute so much to the ambience of the Castle, Tearoom, Gardens and Grounds and we are so pleased to hear that their efforts are appreciated! Sorry you were not able to purchase a bottle of the Ballindalloch Whisky on this occasion but this makes for a good excuse for a return visit! Haste ye back!
Written 29 August 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
martinwY117MC
Keith, UK61 contributions
Aug 2023 • Couples
Lovely afternoon spent at Ballindalloch Castle Gardens. Lovely place to visit, well kept and presented. The walled and rocky garden was nice to explore. A beautiful place and setting. Didn't have time to do a castle tour, but will do next time. Lovely cup of tea and cakes after viewing Gardens in the tea room and shop. Staff really friendly, warm and welcoming and good value for money.
Written 22 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for visiting Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens, and for taking the time to post a review of your visit. We're always happy to receive feedback and to get an insight into visitors’ experiences. We're delighted to know that you had a great day out and enjoyed the Castle experience as well as exploring the Estate and its setting in all its beauty. Thank you very much for your kind remarks. We shall make sure that we pass those on to the team. The team's dedication and hard work contribute so much to the ambience of the Castle, Tearoom, Gardens and Grounds and we are so pleased to hear that their efforts are appreciated! Sorry you were not able to purchase a bottle of the Ballindalloch Whisky on this occasion but this makes for a good excuse for a return visit! Haste ye back!
Written 29 August 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Debra H
2 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
We were somewhat disappointed with our visit to Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens. As dog owners we were informed that dogs were not allowed on most of the garden areas. We had to take turns to look around the gardens. We weren't allowed to take any photos in the castle. The castle was more like a country home. Overall, not a very 'welcoming' feel.
Written 8 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your feedback. It is always helpful to get an insight into visitors’ experiences. We are sorry to hear that you left Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens unhappy.
We do strive to ensure that our visitors, via the website and then at the Admissions Hut, are equipped from the start with all the information they need to make the most of their visit to Ballindalloch. This information includes a map of the Gardens, provided upon arrival as well as downloadable from the website, that sets out the extensive area as well as a walking routes that one can enjoy with your dog.
Due to the nature of the Gardens, the presence of other visitors and the ground-nesting birds and red squirrels that live here, we must ask visitors to keep their dogs under control at all times.
Written 29 August 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Britt B
8 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
Excellent experience, worth it for sure. The inside was set up perfectly, very interesting- could've spent hours easily. Awesome collections, photos, descriptions. Walled garden a favorite. Flowers stunning.
Written 20 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for visiting Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens, and for taking the time to post a review of your visit. We're always happy to receive feedback and to get an insight into visitors’ experiences. We're delighted to know that you had a great day out and enjoyed the Castle experience as well as exploring the Estate and its setting in all its beauty. Thank you very much for your kind remarks. We shall make sure that we pass those on to the team. The team's dedication and hard work contribute so much to the ambience of the Castle, Tearoom, Gardens and Grounds and we are so pleased to hear that their efforts are appreciated! Sorry you were not able to purchase a bottle of the Ballindalloch Whisky on this occasion but this makes for a good excuse for a return visit! Haste ye back!
Written 29 August 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
563RobertK563
Exeter, UK17 contributions
Jul 2023 • Couples
A morning at Ballindalloch Castle. Not the largest of castles, but probably the best presented we've seen. Plenty of history and some exquisite furniture, silverware and artwork. On walking around the grounds we had the pleasure of speaking to the Laird's mother, Clare Russell, who is largely responsible for the gardens. The main border is looking particularly impressive. I also attempted to buy the whisky (Ballindalloch Distillery) but it's not yet available.
Written 5 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for visiting Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens, and for taking the time to post a review of your visit. We're always happy to receive feedback and to get an insight into visitors’ experiences. We're delighted to know that you had a great day out and enjoyed the Castle experience as well as exploring the Estate and its setting in all its beauty. Thank you very much for your kind remarks. We shall make sure that we pass those on to the team. The team's dedication and hard work contribute so much to the ambience of the Castle, Tearoom, Gardens and Grounds and we are so pleased to hear that their efforts are appreciated! Sorry you were not able to purchase a bottle of the Ballindalloch Whisky on this occasion but this makes for a good excuse for a return visit! Haste ye back!
Written 9 July 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jule W
2 contributions
Jun 2023 • Friends
I went with three of my friends
to the castle and gardens
which were both beautiful
But when we were having our
picnic lunch in the grounds
there was this idiot with a noisy
and dusty (as it was dry ) ride on
mower proceeded to mow the grass
in the PICNIC AREA all around our table
we had to grab our food and move out
of the area till he was finished mowing
Surly common sense would pro-vale
here and cut the picnic area grass
say before 10.00 or after 1600 Hrs
not at 13.30
Very disappointed He certainly spoiled our and the other picnickers day at the
Castle
to the castle and gardens
which were both beautiful
But when we were having our
picnic lunch in the grounds
there was this idiot with a noisy
and dusty (as it was dry ) ride on
mower proceeded to mow the grass
in the PICNIC AREA all around our table
we had to grab our food and move out
of the area till he was finished mowing
Surly common sense would pro-vale
here and cut the picnic area grass
say before 10.00 or after 1600 Hrs
not at 13.30
Very disappointed He certainly spoiled our and the other picnickers day at the
Castle
Written 23 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for visiting Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens, and for taking the time to post a review of your visit. We are always happy to receive feedback and to get an insight into visitors’ experiences.
We are sorry to hear that you did not enjoy your experience at the picnic area of the Castle. We have spoken to our groundsmen and have strongly advised them to do the grass cutting in the public areas at a more appropriate moment. We can only apologise and hope that it will not deter you from visiting Ballindalloch Castle & Gardens again in the future.
Written 28 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Leonard F
1 contribution
Jun 2023 • Couples
The second time we have visited Ballindalloch Castle, what a wonderful place. The walks are great taking in the pleasant flowers and plants around the estate. On this occasion we had the pleasure of meeting and talking with Mrs Clare Russell in the walled garden, such a pleasant lady. This will be on our list to visit again in the near future.
Written 15 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for visiting Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens, not once but twice and for taking the time to post a review of your visit. We're always happy to receive feedback and to get an insight into visitors’ experiences. We're delighted to know that you had a great visit. Thank you very much for your kind remarks. Haste ye back!
Written 20 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mary
Claremont, Australia9 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
Extraordinarily preserved family home which happens to be an ancient castle.
As Australian farmers we appreciated the land management and incredible attention to detail in everything. Even the lavatories were tastefully equipped and spotlessly clean. Bravo!
Delicious soup in the cafe from friendly helpful staff.
As Australian farmers we appreciated the land management and incredible attention to detail in everything. Even the lavatories were tastefully equipped and spotlessly clean. Bravo!
Delicious soup in the cafe from friendly helpful staff.
Written 17 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for visiting Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens, and for taking the time to post a review of your visit. We're always happy to receive feedback and to get an insight into visitors’ experiences. We're delighted to know that you had a great day out and enjoyed the Castle experience as well as exploring the Estate and its setting in all its beauty. Thank you very much for your kind remarks. We shall make sure that we pass those on to the team.
The team's dedication and hard work contribute so much to the ambience of the Castle, Tearoom, Gardens and Grounds and we are so pleased to hear that their efforts are appreciated! Haste ye back!
Written 18 May 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mrs W
Winnersh, UK367 contributions
Is it dog friendly please we are planning a visit next may and will have a small dog with us
brianinboca
Delray Beach, FL1,126 contributions
how long did you spend there
NRMEdgmont
Edgmont, PA365 contributions
Only an hour, but we had to pick up our husbands from Cragganmore. We could have spent longer in the house, and we didn’t even get to do the gardens!!
brianinboca
Delray Beach, FL1,126 contributions
Hi someone here mentioned a falconry show. I didn't see it on site. Is there one and when thanks
Justtrippinok
Tulsa, OK257 contributions
We are thinking of making a quick stop at this castle following a tour and tasting at a nearby distillery. I see that the castle closes at 4. My question is-How much time should we alllow ourselves to tour the castle? Thanks.
wynter1
Northampton, UK17 contributions
I would say around three hours
bUbBlEgUm91919
55 contributions
Where are dogs on leafs allowed to be ? Many thanks in advance !
Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens
Ballindalloch, UK1 contribution
Please accept our apologies - we have only just seen your question, so hope that we're not too late in volunteering the information you need. We have a large designated dog-walking area beside the car park, but otherwise dogs are not allowed in the grounds, either off or on leads. You can download the map of our grounds and gardens from the 'Information for Visitors' section on our website. Please do contact us if there's anything else that you'd like to know.
bUbBlEgUm91919
55 contributions
Question for previous visitors who have visited with children under 10...
Hi I'm planning visiting the lovely castle & grounds in July & wondered what there is to do for children . Did your children enjoy the visit , what is there for them to do ? Some feedback on this would be helpful so we can judge if we should or should not take our nephews and neice, ages 5, 8 and 10. We'd like to make an afternoon of it ... but will come without the kids if they'll be bored easily.
Thank you !
Simon H
Glenlivet26 contributions
Hi there - unfortunately I seem to remember that there was a sign saying not to feed the animals, but maybe if you contact the castle they might be able to arrange something? As far as I'm aware they didn't do pony rides but there are places nearby that do (I'm sure google will bring some up).
Go-kart ages, hmm good question, a bit old for my five year old - I'd say something like 7 through to maybe 12? We didn't really look that closely since we weren't using them but that's the size I'd guess at.
Our five year old really enjoyed it - I should have said there's even a grass maze. Not the most difficult thing in the world since it depends on the height of the grass, but if you've not done it before its a good way to spend 15 minutes or so.
Mikitravis
Ashford, UK2 contributions
back in the early seventies we rented a two cottages next to each other with our family, the cottages were part of the estate of the castle but were sold to developers who rented them for holiday lets, we had a great holiday a Castle etcnd were a bit of a novelty because we had rented a large minibus to travel up from Kent, we visited the castle the fee then was £1 to visit and we were met at the door by the lady of the Castle who I believe was Clare, she was so friendly and welcoming and came and visited the cottages. I am a full time entertainer and I occasionally work on Fred Olsens Cruise ships, I was on Breamar and Lo & Behold the ship featured Ballindalloch Castle etc. it bought back some great memories, so glad you are still opening to the public and are the cottages still there
Best Regards
Miki Travis
Hello,
I wondered what was available to see at Ballindalloch castle during the winter months. If the castle isn't open, is it possible to walk around the gardens and is the cafe open? I wondered this for a Saturday? I'm confused because it says the castle isn't open til Good Friday but then reviews have been left in January.
Many thanks,
Steph
Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens
Ballindalloch, UK1 contribution
Hello Steph, and thank you for your enquiry. I'm afraid that neither the Castle nor the Grounds are open until Good Friday, and we are open from then until the last day of September; the reviews that you have seen were late arrivals, left out of season.
We hope very much that you will be able to come and see us when we open to the public again - by then, we shall have all our Spring cleaning and grounds work done, and you will be able to enjoy a visit in (hopefully) better weather!
Please don't hesitate to contact us again if you require any further information.
Kind regards.
Fenella Corr
(for Ballindalloch Castle)
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Claim your listingBALLINDALLOCH CASTLE AND GARDENS: Tickets, Tours & Tips (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens
- Hotels near Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens:
- (0.75 mi) The Delnashaugh
- (0.89 mi) Cragganmore House B & B
- (4.00 mi) Cardhu Country House
- (0.59 mi) Scandinavian Lodge Close to Numerous Attractions
- (8.56 mi) Craigellachie Lodge
- Restaurants near Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens:
- (0.53 mi) Ballindalloch Golf Course Café
- (0.76 mi) Delnashaugh
- (4.93 mi) The Croft Inn
- (9.35 mi) Seven Stills
- (6.36 mi) The Dowans Hotel