Excitement is brewing around the reopening of Balmoral Castle, Queen Elizabeth II’s former holiday home in the Scottish Highlands. Since 1931, the grounds and ballroom have been open to the public annually from April through July, but this year just might be one of the busiest yet The castle is where the Queen took her last breath in September, so there may be an onslaught of fans coming to pay tribute to the beloved late leader.
The Balmoral Estate— which includes a Scottish Baronial and Gothic Revival castle completed in 1856 and about 150 other cottages and buildings—was said to be one of the Queen’s favorite places. Princess Eugenie, one of the Queen’s granddaughters, said of the property in the 2016 documentary Our Queen at Ninety, “It's the most beautiful place on earth. I think Granny is most happy there. I think she really, really loves the Highlands.”
One of only two personal properties owned by the Queen (the other being the Sandringham estate), Balmoral was the place Queen Elizabeth would escape to every summer, usually for about ten weeks between August and October. There, she would entertain grandchildren and high-profile guests alike, holding barbecues in which Prince Philip would handle grilling duties, and venturing out on expeditions of the acres and acres of property, according to Town & Country.
Visitors to the estate this coming spring and summer will have access to guided excursions of the land, the castle’s ballroom, and the many gardens. Prince Albert planted the first garden, with members of subsequent Royal generations adding to the grounds. According to Balmoral Castle’s official website, King Charles III, who is known for his green thumb, has already mapped out plans for his contribution and work will probably be ongoing during the summer.
Preparing for the crowds of mourners and well-wishers, the estate has already issued instructions on where to place flowers and cards in remembrance of Her Majesty. Flowers will have a designated area outside the Main Gates and all cellophane is to be removed. The decayed flowers will be composted on the estate.
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On Balmoral’s official Instagram page, the estate posted, “We can't wait to welcome you all back to experience the peace and tranquility of the castle grounds, coronation celebrations, a special photographic exhibition of ‘Monarchs at Balmoral’ and much more to be announced soon.” No doubt, there are thousands just as excited to visit.
