Balmoral Arms
Victoria Road, near Ballater station and village centre · Hotel
View on Google MapsPhoto: Balmoral Arms
A Crerar Hotels property, formerly the Deeside Inn, refurbished into a boutique Highland hotel a short walk from Ballater station.
What's nearby
- Cycle Highlands next door
- Victoria Garage next door
- Alexandra Hotel next door
- The Bothy Ballater 200m away
- Ballater Caravan Park 200m away
Distances as the crow flies, via Google
Good to know
Accessibility
- ✓Accessible parking
- ✓Accessible entrance
Details via Google — worth confirming with the hotel before you travel, especially for access needs.
Photos
Photos via Google
About Balmoral Arms
The Balmoral Arms occupies a well-known Victorian coaching inn in the centre of Ballater, previously trading as the Deeside Inn, which Crerar Hotels reopened after a substantial refurbishment. The result keeps the building's original stone façade and Highland proportions while updating the interiors with contemporary furnishings, and the hotel takes its room names from local landmarks including Balmoral, Loch Muick and Birkhall.
Two dining options sit at the heart of the hotel: the 1852 restaurant, serving a Scottish brasserie menu built on local, seasonal produce, and the more informal Ghillies Bar, which has the feel of a traditional Highland pub with real ales and simpler cooking. Dog-friendly rooms are available, reflecting the hotel's position as a base for walkers and their dogs heading into the surrounding glens.
Its position close to the old station and the shops of Victoria Road and Bridge Street makes it one of the most central places to stay in Ballater, within a few minutes of the museum, cafés and the start of several waymarked walking routes, while Balmoral Castle is under a fifteen-minute drive away.
What guests say
Wonderful stay at this traditional hotel. We really felt welcome in this place that felt as Scottish as it can get. We had a warm welcome by the staff followed by a great dinner in a very old styled bar. The breakfast was great as well. Highly recommend this place to get that highland experience.
a month ago · via Google
Excellent stay at the Balmoral Arms. The hotel is perfectly located for exploring Royal Deeside, just a short drive from Balmoral Castle and the stunning Cairngorms. The room was comfortable and quiet, the staff were friendly and professional, and the breakfast was excellent. I also thoroughly enjoyed dinner in the hotel restaurant, where the local specialties were outstanding and beautifully prepared. A great base for discovering this beautiful part of Scotland. I would happily stay here again.
2 months ago · via Google
We had a truly lovely stay at Balmoral Arms, and it exceeded our expectations in many ways. Nestled in a beautiful setting, the hotel combines traditional charm with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. We also had the chance to dine at the hotel, and the food was excellent. The quality of the ingredients and the presentation made it a memorable experience. All in all, Balmoral Arms is a wonderful place to unwind and enjoy a peaceful getaway. We would absolutely recommend it and would happily return in the future.
4 months ago · via Google
This is a lovely hotel in the heart of Ballater. The staff are very attentive, and the bar area was a delight. Breakfast was superb - cooked to order. We didn't eat in the main restaurant as we were attending a family wedding on the Mar Lodge Estate. Our room was very comfortable. Highly recommended.
6 months ago · via Google
Guests mention this hotel offers comfortable, beautifully decorated rooms and delicious food, including excellent breakfast options and local specialties. They also highlight the friendly, attentive staff and the cozy, traditional Scottish atmosphere with open fires, making it a welcoming and pet-friendly stay.
Some reviews mention the service can be slow.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- 13-15 Victoria Road, Ballater, AB35 5RA Get directions
- Property type
- Hotel
- Location
- Victoria Road, near Ballater station and village centre
- Star rating
- 4 star
- Guest score
- 8.4 / 10 (1,350 reviews)
- Prices from
- £145 per night
- Good for children
- Yes
- Destination
- Ballater