The King has publicly expressed the significance of Balmoral to the late Queen, referring to it as a uniquely special place. In a new 80-page guidebook about the Scottish estate, Charles describes Balmoral as a cherished family home with distinct character and a precious, almost sacred, natural setting. The estate was acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1852, with the castle being constructed due to their admiration for the Highlands.
Over the years, Balmoral has served as a beloved summer getaway for the royal family, with successive monarchs leaving their mark on the castle and grounds. It was at Balmoral that Elizabeth II, Charles’ mother, passed away on September 8, 2022, after a remarkable 70-year reign.
In his book, Charles reflects on the 50,000-acre estate as a place deeply rooted in his family’s history since its acquisition by Prince Albert in 1852. He highlights the unique architecture and the timeless quality of the landscape that continues to captivate generations.
The guidebook commences with a watercolor painting of the castle, created by Charles in 1989. In July 2024, the King opened Balmoral to the public after over 170 years, introducing various enhancements to the interior and gardens. Previously, only the ballroom was accessible to the public, hosting different exhibitions annually.
The new guidebook, titled “Balmoral” and authored by Mary Miers, details the King’s additions to the castle, such as a maze in place of the ballroom lawn and redesigned gates in Queen Mary’s Garden. Inside the castle, additional furniture, paintings, and objects from the Royal Collection have been incorporated.
Miers emphasizes the broader narrative of Balmoral beyond Victoria and Albert’s connection to the Highlands, highlighting the Prince Consort’s influence on the estate’s architecture and design. She commends the King for enhancing the estate while preserving its original charm and style.
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