"We love the Balmoral Arms and staying just before Christmas is the perfect mix of calm and relaxed."
Emma G from United Kingdom
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"The tea/ coffee tray included caramel wafers and delicious rhubarb tea."
Patricia from United Kingdom
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"My husband and I had a lovely lunch in the Ghillies Bar."
Sophie N from United Kingdom
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"The hotel has classic charm with some modern touches."
davidrI6039ZL from United Kingdom
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"Ballater is a lovely, relaxing location with excellent amenities."
Joyce from United Kingdom
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Accommodations & Rooms
Rooms and suites feature original Victorian décor throughout the hotel. Some rooms offer scenic mountain views of Cairngorms National Park. The hotel offers 5-star accommodations with luxurious rooms and suites.
Dining & Drink
The on-site 1852 restaurant serves locally inspired Scottish cuisine with an a la carte and grill menu, and special dietary accommodations are available upon request. The hotel offers a fabulous breakfast. The bar has a wide selection of local ales and spirits, plus wine and champagne.
Pet-Friendly
The hotel has a pet-friendly policy accommodating dogs in various rooms. Pet baskets and bowls are provided. The hotel is dog-friendly and welcomes canine guests.
Location & Activities
The hotel is in Ballater, centre of Royal Deeside, a 15-minute drive from Balmoral Castle and surrounded by Cairngorms National Park. Guests have access to bicycle rental, a golf course, and live music performances. Ski storage is available for winter sports.
Services & Accessibility
Facilities for disabled guests include an emergency cord in bathroom and toilet grab rails. Express check-in/check-out and luggage storage are provided. The hotel also offers family rooms, non-smoking rooms, and a shared lounge/TV area.
Highlights
Location: In Ballater, 15-minute drive from Balmoral Castle, surrounded by Cairngorms National Park
Rooms: Original Victorian décor, scenic mountain views
Dining: 1852 restaurant with Scottish cuisine, fabulous breakfast
Pet-Friendly: Dogs welcome with pet baskets and bowls
“This establishment in Ballater offers a genuinely warm welcome, underscored by attentive staff who clearly take pride in their service, creating a notably comfortable atmosphere for guests and their canine companions alike. Its well-appointed rooms provide a peaceful retreat, and the dining, particularly the breakfast, consistently impresses with quality and flavour. It's a place that encourages return visits, striking a fine balance between a relaxed setting and proximity to local vibrancy.”
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at 4shotels
Select your room type
Balmoral Arms offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Classic Double Room
2 persons
12 m²
1 Double bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Cosy Double Room
2 persons
12 m²
1 Double bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Classic King Room
2 persons
12 m²
1 King-size bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details
Show all rooms
Price and Room Availability Calendar
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
Balmoral Arms offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.4/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Free Wi-Fi in public areas
Express check-in/ -out
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Ski storage
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access
Sports & Fitness
Skiing
Hiking
Horseback riding
Cycling
Golf course
Fishing
Guest Parking
Electric kettle
Services
Pet amenities available
Housekeeping
Welcome drink
Dining
In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Packed lunches
Special diet menus
Business
Fax/Photocopying
Children
Cots
Board games
Children's menu
Facilities for people with disabilities
Toilet for disabled
Bathroom for disabled
Spa & Leisure
Live entertainment
Leisure/ TV room
Room features
Heating
Sitting area
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Electric kettle
Media
Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
Carpeted floor
Show more
Dining Onsite
Balmoral Arms features delightful dining options that celebrate the rich flavors and traditions of Scottish cuisine. Guests can enjoy traditional family-friendly environments alongside more modern romantic settings, making each meal a unique experience infused with local ingredients from the surrounding Cairngorms.
Restaurant #1
Scottish and Local Grill/BBQ
Ambiance
A warm and inviting space, perfect for families and romantic dinners, with a contemporary touch that reflects its heritage.
Key Offerings
Signature dishes like pan-seared salmon from the River Dee and Balmoral Chicken showcase the area's finest produce. High tea and cocktail hours add a special touch to the experience, making leisurely afternoons memorable.
Reservation
Reservations recommended.
Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, high tea, and cocktail hour; hours may vary.
Balmoral Arms Location
13-15 Victoria Road, Ballater, AB35 5RA,
Explore Ballater
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
St Kentigern's Church
9 minutes' walk
Historic church known for its beautiful stained glass and serene atmosphere, ideal for a peaceful visit.
Crathie Church
25 minutes walking
A charming church with significant Royal connections and stunning architecture, offering a glimpse into local history.
The Ballater Gallery
3 minutes' walk
Local gallery showcasing contemporary art from regional artists, featuring rotating exhibitions and a friendly atmosphere.
Discover the local attractions near Balmoral Arms
Learn about the notable sites near Balmoral Arms that showcase the rich cultural and historical heritage of the area
Ideal for quiet reflection: Glenmuick Church
Great for appreciating local art: The Ballater Gallery
Perfect for art enthusiasts: Larks Gallery
Well suited for tranquil visits: St Kentigern's Church
Best for discovering local history: Crathie Church
Suited for immersive gallery experiences: McEwan Gallery
Hiking in Cairngorms National Park
20 minutes' drive
Thrilling hiking trails with stunning views and diverse wildlife, suitable for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts.
Yoga Classes at the Local Studio
10 minutes' walk
Relaxing yoga classes available for all skill levels, promoting wellness with sessions in a peaceful setting.
Rock Salt & Snails
3 minutes' walk
Popular restaurant offering a mix of local favorites and international dishes, known for its fresh ingredients and cozy vibe.
Clachan Grill
3 minutes' walk
Casual dining spot serving hearty Scottish cuisine, famous for its grilled dishes and friendly service.
Discover dining options near Balmoral Arms
Enjoy dining options near Balmoral Arms that cater to a variety of tastes and experiences
Perfect for enjoying innovative cuisine: Rock Salt & Snails
Ideal for savoring flavorful Indian dishes: The Lochnagar Indian Brasserie
Great for casual brunches: Bridge House Cafe
Well suited for coffee lovers: Bean For Coffee
Best for hearty meals and local dishes: The Deeside Inn Restaurant
Wonderful for delightful sweet treats: Shorty's Ice Cream Parlour
Suited for a cozy dining experience: The Bothy
Ideal for relaxed dining in a historic setting: Cambus O'May Hotel
Local Pub Quiz Nights
5 minutes' walk
Lively pub atmosphere with weekly quiz nights, perfect for families and groups looking for fun and friendly competition.
Live Music at the Glenaden Hotel
2 minutes' walk
Inviting hotel venue featuring live music events; great for a night out enjoying local talent in a relaxed setting.
Getting around
City Centre
Ballater 4 min · 300 m
Airports
Aberdeen (ABZ) 95 min · 62.8 km
Dundee (DND) 165 min · 109.7 km
Bus
Bus stop 15 min · 9.5 km
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-20:00
Check-out
from 05:00-11:00
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in public areas for free.
Breakfast
The hotel Balmoral Arms serves a full breakfast for free.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Year renovated:
2011
Number of rooms:
46
Former name
Loirston Hotel
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about Balmoral Arms from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 949 verified reviews
8.2 /10
Great
84 %
Recommend
Breakfast
8.8/10
Cleanliness
8.7/10
Comfort
8.8/10
Facilities
8.4/10
Free WiFi
8.9/10
Location
9.4/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.3/10
Staff
9.0/10
Value for money
8.0/10
Pros
Attentive staff
Quality breakfast
Central location
Cons
Room temperature issues
Maintenance needs
Slow service
Guest reviews
based on 1543 reviews
8.3/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About Balmoral Arms
How far is Balmoral Arms from Aberdeen Airport?
Balmoral Arms is 65 km from Aberdeen Airport, approximately a 56-minute drive.
What time can I check in and check out at Balmoral Arms?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is at 11:00.
What room amenities are available at Balmoral Arms?
Rooms feature a flat-screen TV, tea/coffee making facilities, and private bathrooms with dressing gowns and slippers.
Does Balmoral Arms have any dining options available?
An on-site restaurant serves a la carte and grill menu featuring locally inspired Scottish cuisine.
Are there any restaurants within walking distance of Balmoral Arms?
Nearby restaurants include The Bothy, Shorty's Ice Cream Parlour, and Bean For Coffee, all situated 0.5 km away.
What leisure activities are offered at Balmoral Arms?
Guests can enjoy skiing, cycling, horseback riding, and fishing in the surrounding area.
What special features does Balmoral Arms offer?
Highlights include a cozy lounge with open log fires, free Wi-Fi, and wheelchair access.
Are there opportunities for golf near Balmoral Arms?
Ballater Golf Club is just 91 m away from Balmoral Arms.
What are some nearby attractions to Balmoral Arms?
Nearby attractions include Balmoral Castle (15-minute drive), Royal Lochnagar Distillery, and Cairngorms National Park.
Does Balmoral Arms provide breakfast, and is there a fee?
Breakfast is available for an additional charge of 16 GBP.
What services does Balmoral Arms offer for guests?
Services include luggage storage, express check-in/out, and a welcome drink upon arrival.