King Charles has described Balmoral Castle as a 'cherished home' of the Royal Family, saying it holds a 'uniquely special place' in their hearts. Writing in a foreword for a new guidebook, the King highlighted the importance of the Aberdeenshire estate, which has been in the Royal Family since 1852 when it was purchased by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.
In the 80-page guidebook titled 'Balmoral', Charles wrote: 'Balmoral has been the cherished Scottish home of my family since the estate was purchased by Prince Albert... in 1852. With its buildings of startling individuality, which never fail to fascinate, and its precious, almost sacred, surrounding landscape, it is a place where there is constant change, yet everything remains unaltered, with a sense of timelessness which refreshes the soul.'
The King also noted that his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, particularly treasured her time at Balmoral and chose to spend her final days there in September 2022. He added: 'Since my earliest childhood, it has held, and continues to hold, a uniquely special place in the hearts of my family and myself.'
The guidebook, written by journalist and historian Mary Miers, reveals recent changes made by the King, including new furniture, carpets, and artworks from the Royal Collection. Outside, the Queen Mary's garden was remodelled in 2023, and the ballroom lawn was replaced with an intricate maze reflecting the King's interest in geometric patterns.
In July 2024, King Charles opened Balmoral Castle to the public for the first time in 170 years, allowing visitors to explore more of the estate beyond the ballroom, which had previously been the only area accessible.
