Ballater is a charming village in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, situated in the Cairngorms National Park.
It is well known for its picturesque setting along the River Dee and its close ties to the British Royal Family, as it is near Balmoral Castle.
Ballater has a rich royal history, and many businesses display the royal warrants granted by the British monarchy.
The village is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, cycling, and fishing opportunities. It is also a gateway to exploring the Cairngorms.
The area features beautiful Victorian architecture, including the Old Royal Station, a historic railway station with connections to Queen Victoria.
Piper James Cooper plays “I See Mull” outside old Ballater Railway Station by Braemar Media.
Ballater has a range of restaurants, cafes and independent shops.
Eating and Drinking
Shorty’s Ice Cream Parlour – 25 Bridge Street, Ballater AB35 5QP
The Bothy – 43 Bridge Street, Ballater AB35 5QD
The Balmoral Bar – 1 Netherley Place, Ballater AB35 5QE
Fish Shop – Restaurant – 3 Netherley Place, Ballater AB35 5QE
Clachan Grill – 5 Bridge Square, Ballater AB35 5QJ
The Lochnagar Indian Brasserie – 2 Church Square, Ballater AB35 5NE
Rothesay Rooms – Ballater Station, Station Square, Ballater AB35 5RB
Orka Artisan Cafe & Bistro – 1 Braemar Road, Ballater AB35 5RL
Shopping
Caledonian Collectibles – 5 Bridge Street, Ballater AB35 5QP
Brakeley Gift Room – 14 Bridge Street, Ballater AB35 5QP
Wood & Wool –16 Bridge Street, Ballater AB35 5QP
Deeside Books & Gifts –18-20 Bridge Street, Ballater AB35 5QP
Food and Drink
The Ballater Baker – 8 Golf Road , Ballater, United Kingdom, AB35 5RE
Sheridan’s the Butcher – with stores in Ballater and Banchory, this award-winning Specialist Butcher also offers top quality butchery produce through their online store – 11 Bridge Street, Ballater AB35 5QP
Fish Shop – Fishmonger – 3 Netherley Place, Ballater AB35 5QE
Cycling
Cyclehighlands – The Pavilion, Victoria Road, Ballater AB35 5QQ