In The Heart Of The Victorian Village Of Ballater
Traditional country inn, a place where nature, heritage and style come together
Our traditional countryside inn in Ballater features cosy rooms, luxurious suites, and locally inspired cuisine.
Enjoy a quaint stay in Royal Deeside, with our rooms and suites offering a blend of sizes and styles to suit every stay.
Contemporary interiors hint at our Victorian heritage in some rooms, with Highland hues in others. Rooms and suites offer simple comfort and welcome touches for those spending more time outside than in. Family dogs are also made to feel at home.
Perfect for:
- Royal History
- Dog-Friendly Travel
- Highland Hikes
Close to:
- Ballater Railway Station (0.2m)
- Balmoral Castle (7.7m)
- Braemar Games (16.0m)
Our classic Scottish brasserie and grill, a true taste of Royal Deeside with local, seasonal cuisine.
Give the gift of an unforgettable experience at Balmoral Arms
A great deal of better offers.
Spring & Summer Getaway
Enjoy a seasonal getaway with a two-night bed and breakfast stay, dinner allowance, and a bottle of bubbles in your room on arrival.
Up to 30% off
Stay Longer & Save at Balmoral Arms
As a dog-friendly hotel, we welcome you to enjoy the perfect getaway with the whole family. Save up to 30% of your stay.
Vouchers from £25
Gift Vouchers
Explore our accommodation and dining vouchers to choose the perfect present for your loved ones.
Things to do during your stay in Ballater
Tucked away in the heart of Royal Deeside, the picturesque village of Ballater is known for its gorgeous landscapes and close ties to the Royal Family. Whether you're visiting for the views, the history, or a bit of both, we’ve put together a few helpful tips to inspire your trip to this truly special part of Scotland.
How to get to your Ballater hotel
Directions to Balmoral Arms
By car - Travelling from the south on the A93, follow the road to the centre of Ballater and turn right on to Victoria Road. Balmoral Arms sits on the left hand side of the road.
From Aberdeen and the east, follow the A93 into Ballater, driving alongside the River Dee on Tulloch Road.
At the end of Tulloch Road, turn right on to Bridge Street, then take a left turn into Victoria Road, where Balmoral Arms sits on your left.
By train - The nearest railway station is Aberdeen. From there you can take the Stagecoach bus to Ballater. For full information on public transport links to and from the area, visit www.travelinescotland.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, staying at Balmoral Arms places you in the heart of Royal Deeside, which is ideal for families. Within walking distance, you can find local green spaces perfect for children to play.
A popular spot is the Victoria Park and playground in Ballater, which offers great facilities for younger children. The surrounding area is also packed with gentle, family-friendly walking trails along the River Dee, suitable for all ages.
Ballater is a paradise for dog walkers, offering everything from riverside strolls to woodland adventures. Popular local routes include the River Dee pathways, which are easily accessible from the village, and the Craigendarroch Hill trail, which offers fantastic views and a rewarding hike.
For a full guide to the best local walks and tips for exploring Royal Deeside with your pet, please visit our Dog-Friendly page.
Beyond local parks and playgrounds, the area surrounding Balmoral Arms is perfect for active families. You can explore the Old Railway Line, which is flat and perfect for cycling or walking with children, or visit the nearby Balmoral Castle estate grounds (seasonal).
The Cairngorms National Park is also right on our doorstep, providing endless opportunities for family picnics, wildlife spotting, and gentle nature trails.
Balmoral Arms is located in the centre of the picturesque village of Ballater, making it a convenient base for families. Most local amenities, including the playground, village green, and local shops, are just a few minutes' walk away.
We are also just a short drive from major family-friendly attractions like Balmoral Castle and the scenic trails of the Cairngorms.
