The Auld Kirk Bed & Breakfast Ballater Other photoThe Auld Kirk Bed & Breakfast Ballater Facilities photoThe Auld Kirk Bed & Breakfast Ballater Beds photo
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From191US$ /night
Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

31 Braemar Road, Ballater, Ballater, United Kingdom
-
Close to Glenmuick Church
Perfect
9.6
/10
4.7
4.7
/5

Accommodation

The Auld Kirk offers en-suite accommodation with seven well-appointed guest bedrooms. These rooms include a mix of twin, double, and family options located on the first floor of the building. Each room is fitted with smart contemporary shower rooms, and one double room is available with a bath.

Family-Friendly

Children are welcome in the family room, and babies stay free of charge with their own travel cot. This setup allows families to enjoy their stay without extra costs for younger guests. The hotel offers spacious family accommodations to ensure comfort during the visit.

Dining

Guests can enjoy afternoon teas and a selection of drinks in the comfortable ground floor guest lounge. The lounge, located in the former side chapel, serves a range of beers, wines, and spirits, including a selection of malt whiskies. Guests can also relax outdoors on the terrace, making use of umbrellas as needed.

Location

The Auld Kirk is situated conveniently for exploring the Cairngorms National Park and is close to Balmoral Castle. The nearby Ballater Golf Course offers stunning views and an opportunity for outdoor activities. Access to various local attractions allows for engaging experiences throughout the stay.

Amenities

Rooms include a Nespresso machine, local mineral water, and Scottish Soap Company toiletries. Guests are welcomed with homemade shortbread and a dram of Royal Lochnagar 12-year-old reserve whisky. Additional amenities include smart TVs for app usage and complimentary ironing equipment.

Highlights

Location: Close to Balmoral Castle and Cairngorms National Park

Rooms: 7 well-appointed guest bedrooms with en-suite facilities

Dining: Comfortable lounge with selection of malt whiskies

Family-Friendly: Children and babies stay free in family room

Must-do experiences

  • Visit Balmoral Castle's gardens for stunning views and history.
  • Enjoy a fresh salmon dish at The Bothy, a local favorite.
  • Hike the scenic Lochnagar trail for breathtaking Highland scenery.
  • Explore the Ballater Museum to learn about royal history.
  • Join the weekly local market for artisan goods and treats.
View all

Select your preferred room

Choose from standard rooms, family suites, or deluxe options — with breakfast and flexible rates
Twin Room
2 persons
15 m² 
2 Single beds
Shower
Coffee machine
Double Room
2 persons
12 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Family Room
2 persons
15 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine

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Hotel facilities and services

Each hotel provides modern amenities for a relaxing and pleasant stay
Facilities: Perfect
9.5/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Parking
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Hiking
  • Horseback riding
  • Cycling
  • Golf course
  • Fishing

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Picnic area/ Tables
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Children

  • Cots
  • Board games

Spa & Leisure

  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

The Auld Kirk Bed & Breakfast Location

31 Braemar Road, Ballater, Ballater, United Kingdom
Map view
31 Braemar Road, Ballater, Ballater, United Kingdom
Nearby
Church
Glenmuick Church
350 m
Gallery
The Ballater Gallery
350 m
Gallery
Larks Gallery
350 m
Church
St Kentigern's Church
360 m
Restaurants
Victoria's
140 m
1 Braemar Road
The Lochnagar Indian Brasserie
450 m
2 Church Square
The Bothy
330 m
43 Bridge Street
Deeside Deli & Garden Shop
620 m
47 Bridge Street
The Carriage
340 m
Station Square Ballater Station
The Balmoral Bar
350 m
1 Netherly Place
Glenaden Hotel
490 m
6 Church Square
India on the Green Restaurant
510 m
9 Victoria Road
The Deeside Inn Restaurant
590 m
13-15 Victoria Road
Rock Salt & Snails
580 m
2 Bridge Street
Clachan Grill
610 m
5 Bridge Square
Bridge House Cafe
590 m
Bridge Street
Explore Ballater
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Glenmuick Church
5 minutes' walk
Glenmuick Church features stunning architecture and a serene atmosphere, perfect for quiet reflection.
The Ballater Gallery
5 minutes' walk
The Ballater Gallery showcases local art and hosts frequent exhibitions, appealing to art enthusiasts.
McEwan Gallery
4-minute drive
McEwan Gallery presents a collection of contemporary art, with an emphasis on local artists and beautiful settings.
Crathie Church
3-minute drive
Crathie Church is renowned for its historical significance and picturesque location, often frequented by the Royal Family.
Hiking Trails
10 minutes' drive
Various hiking trails around Ballater cater to different skill levels, with breathtaking views of the Cairngorms.
Yoga Classes
5 minutes' walk
Local yoga studios offer classes focusing on relaxation and mindfulness, suitable for all skill levels.
River Rafting
15 minutes' drive
Thrilling river rafting experiences nearby provide excitement and adventure for adrenaline seekers.
Victoria's
2 minutes' walk
Victoria's offers a cozy atmosphere with classic British dishes and locally sourced ingredients, reservations recommended.
The Bothy
4 minutes' walk
The Bothy serves traditional Scottish fare with a modern twist, featuring seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
The Lochnagar Indian Brasserie
6 minutes' walk
The Lochnagar offers a vibrant dining experience with authentic Indian cuisine and various vegetarian options.
Local Pubs
5 minutes' walk
Various local pubs feature live music and a friendly atmosphere, offering a taste of Scottish nightlife.
The Barn at Ballater
10 minutes' drive
The Barn hosts monthly comedy shows and live performances, providing fun for all ages in a relaxed setting.
Getting around the city
City Centre
Ballater5 min  ·  400 m
Airports
Aberdeen (ABZ)95 min  ·  63.2 km
Dundee (DND)164 min  ·  109.2 km
Bus
Bus stop15 min  ·  9.7 km
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-19:00
Check-out
from 07:00-10:00
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible at a location nearby for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel The Auld Kirk guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
8

Guest ratings and detailed reviews

Feedback about The Auld Kirk Bed & Breakfast from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
Guests consistently praise the Auld Kirk's unique charm, highlighting its stunning conversion from an 1860 Victorian Scottish church into a beautiful B&B, while some guests have noted that they found the accommodation a bit old-fashioned. The bedrooms are spacious and comfortably furnished, often featuring a wee dram and homemade shortbread, along with modern amenities such as Nespresso machines. The breakfast is a particular highlight, with a wide choice of both sweet and savory options, including fresh pastries and Helen's divine homemade scones, with some guests even receiving a bag to take away any leftovers to enjoy later during a walk near Balmoral or the Lochnagar distillery.
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Review score
Based on 283 verified reviews
9.6/10
Perfect
98%
Recommend
Free Wi-Fi
10.0/10
Breakfast
9.9/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.0/10
Value for money
9.2/10
Pros
Comfortable beds
Rich breakfast
Perfect hosts
Unique experience
Local information
Cons
Early shop closing
Late check-in
Briefing chat
Guest reviews
based on 633 reviews
9.6/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About The Auld Kirk
What are the check-in and check-out times at The Auld Kirk?
Check-in is between 16:00 and 19:00, and check-out is by 10:30.
How far is The Auld Kirk from Aberdeen Airport?
The Auld Kirk is 65 km from Aberdeen Airport, which takes approximately one hour by car.
What dining options are available at The Auld Kirk?
The Auld Kirk features an on-site coffee lounge that serves a selection of pastries, cakes, and afternoon tea.
What popular attractions are near The Auld Kirk?
Balmoral Castle is located less than 8 km away, while Dufftown, part of the famous whisky trail, is just over an hour's drive.
Is parking available at The Auld Kirk?
The Auld Kirk offers free on-site parking for guests.
What room amenities can guests expect at The Auld Kirk?
Rooms feature a flat-screen TV, a Nespresso coffee machine, homemade biscuits, and free Wi-Fi.
What recreational activities can guests enjoy at The Auld Kirk?
Guests can engage in activities such as cycling, fishing, golf, and horseback riding in the surrounding area.
Is breakfast included at The Auld Kirk?
Breakfast is available for an additional charge and is freshly cooked to order using local ingredients.
What languages do the staff speak at The Auld Kirk?
The staff at The Auld Kirk communicate primarily in English.
Does The Auld Kirk have a lounge or common area for guests?
Yes, The Auld Kirk features a comfortable ground floor guest lounge situated in the former side chapel.

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Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
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19Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room