About Ballater

Places to visit and more!

Ballater is a beautiful example of a mainly Victorian village in the heart of Royal Deeside 17 miles east of Braemar and 40 miles west of Aberdeen. Its origins can be traced back as far as the early 1300s when the area became part of the estates of the Knights Hospitaller of the Order of St John.

It is commonly accepted that Ballater means "Pass of the Water". The name being taken from a group of dwellings at the east end of the Pass of Ballater. The old spelling was Bealadair. Beach means"pass" and Dair means water.

More of the history of the area can be found on www.visitballater.com

There are so many things to do in Ballater, it is doubtful than anyone has ever been bored here. From sitting on the Green with a coffee watching the world to by to walking up The Craigendarroch to playing a round of golf and everything in between, you will likely find it here.

In all seasons there are walks, bike trails and good food to be had. Ballater has a beautiful gallery, The Ballater Gallery, with some of the best of original Scottish art to view. The owner, David Reid, is hugely knowledgeable about his artists. Well worth a visit.

Things To Do In Ballater

  • Hill walking
  • Cycling
  • Mountain Biking
  • Golf - Ballater and Balmoral courses
  • Skiing- seasonal
  • Fishing - seasonal
  • Tour of Balmoral Castle and Grounds - seasonal
  • 4 X 4 Luxury Land Rover safari tours of Balmoral mountain scenery
  • Ranger Guided walks in various areas
  • Castles Tours
  • Distillery tours
  • Ballater Walking Festival - May
  • Victoria Week - August
  • Ballater Highland Games - August
  • Braemar Highland. Games - September

Eat & Drink in Ballater

Ballater has a great selection of places to eat and drink. Across from Clippie Lodge is the village Fish & Chip shop to start with. Not far to go to put your order in!

Ballater can offer everything from a coffee and a fancy piece to a full fine dining menu.

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