King Charles gives permission for Balmoral Castle to open to public for first time

The public will be allowed to see inside Balmoral Castle for the first time in its 169-year history this summer after King Charles granted permission for internal tours.

This year, Balmoral Castle’s grounds, gardens, and exhibitions will open to the public from Saturday, May 4 until Sunday, August 11.

But for the first time, members of the public will also have the chance to see inside of the royal family’s private Scottish retreat.

Advertised as an adults only experience, visitors will embark on a private tour through several rooms within the castle used by the royals with an experienced tour guide.

The Castle Interior Tour, which can be booked from July 1 until August 4, will offer the chance to visit the ballroom and view the King’s watercolour collection.

They will also be able to see a collection of outfits worn by Charles, Camilla, the late Queen Elizabeth and The Queen Mother.

Ticket holders will also be able to visit the grounds, gardens and the exhibitions.

The tour description reads: “For the first time since the castle was completed in 1855, we have been granted permission to take you on a private tour with our experienced guides.

“They will take you on a historical journey through several of the beautiful rooms within Balmoral Castle.

“You will learn about the origins of the castle and how it has been loved by generations of the royal family.

“Travel through time from the purchase of the Balmoral by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, through to present day, where you can see how rooms within the castle are used today by their Majesty’s The King and Queen and other members of the royal family.”

Just 40 tickets will be issued each day, costing £100 each and £150 if an afternoon tea is included and can be purchased from the Balmoral Castle website.