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United Kingdom
Ballater
The Auld Kirk
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The Auld Kirk Bed & Breakfast Ballater Exterior photoThe Auld Kirk Bed & Breakfast Ballater Exterior photoThe Auld Kirk Bed & Breakfast Ballater Exterior photo

THE AULD KIRK, Ballater

Book directly with us
— up to 10% cheaper
than on Booking.com
Check rooms and rates
From$191 /night
Check-in
02Jun
Check-out
03Jun
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

31 Braemar Road, Ballater, Ballater, true
-
Close to Glenmuick Church
Perfect
9.6
/10
4.8
4.8
/5

Loved by The Auld Kirk guests

Really good hotel
Super clean room
Delicious breakfast
Cute atmosphere
High-quality ingredients
Newly refurbished bathroom
"Loved that it was a converted church, in a beautiful town."
Tracey from United Kingdom
read full review
"The dram of whiskey and shortbread were a lovely touch in the room."
Patricia from Ireland
read full review
"Breakfast was outstanding, a terrific selection to choose from including freshly made scones, muffins and croissants."
Weeish from United Kingdom
read full review

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.

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
    Heating
    Coffee machine
    room details
    Double Room
    2 persons
    12 m²
    1 Double bed
    Bathtub
    Heating
    room details
    Family Room
    2 persons
    15 m²
    1 King-size bed
    Bathtub
    Heating
    room details

View our calendar

Check prices and secure your dates today
June 2026 - June 2027
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Check-in/ Check-out

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 Location

31 Braemar Road, Ballater, Ballater, true
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
    Ballater 5 min  ·  400 m
  • Airports
    Aberdeen (ABZ) 95 min  ·  63.2 km
    Dundee (DND) 164 min  ·  109.2 km
  • Bus
    Bus stop 15 min  ·  9.7 km
Want to unlock exclusive early deals?
Access members-only prices today
Check Rates
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 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.
Show moreShow less
Review score
Based on 302 verified reviews
9.6 /10
Perfect
98 %
Recommend
Free WiFi
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 302 reviews
9.6/10
based on 610 reviews
9.6/10
Jayden from Australia
Single
double room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 10, 2026
10/10

auld kirk stay

whisky welcome homemade scones local restaurants
the whisky welcome was a great touch. the breakfast included homemade scones and fresh ingredients. the owners offered excellent advice regarding local restaurants.
0 Helpful
John from United Kingdom
true
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 31, 2025
9.5/10

Really good Stay

helpful host whisky dram
the owners were very cute and helpful. they provided great advice on local dinner options and served a beautiful breakfast. i particularly enjoyed the blueberry scones and the little dram of whisky waiting in my room.
the wifi signal was weak in my room. this.
Dining
10/10
the breakfast included a variety of options such as croissants pastries fruit muffins yoghurts and scones. a freshly cooked breakfast followed this initial offering and catered to my every need. the waitress was very attentive.
Location
9/10
the location provided convenient access to local attractions. it was easy to explore the surrounding area. the hotel was quiet.
Rooms
9/10
the room was beautifully decorated with lovely touches. i found locally bottled water shortbread and a wee dram of whisky. the bathroom was spacious and included lovely products.
Service
10/10
helen provided a very warm welcome upon arrival. she. the hosts went beyond expectations making the stay feel personalized.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Emily from United Kingdom
Single
double room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: November 28, 2025
9.7/10

a nice stay!

local walks generous breakfast fresh pastries
I found the owners helpful. They provided excellent advice on local walks. breakfast was generous and made to order. pastries were fresh and tasty. i really liked that leftovers were offered in a doggy bag.
the tv remote control did not have batteries, though this was resolved quickly.
Facilities
9/10
The building has been beautifully restored, retaining its original character. It features well kept gardens, and offers a peaceful atmosphere. there is a cosy lounge area with comfortable seating. It is perfect.
Location
10/10
The location was central and within easy walking distance to restaurants. i noticed that the hotel is situated close to several local attractions, including balmoral castle. The train station is a short drive away.
Dining
10/10
Breakfast featured a wide selection of items. Fresh local produce was served, and the presentation was excellent. tea and coffee were available throughout the day. Snacks were also offered in the afternoon!
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Scarlett from United Kingdom
Couple
Double Room
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed: November 15, 2025
6/10

Acceptable Stay with Issues

clean room comfortable room
The room was super clean and cozy.
The Wi-Fi was unreliable in my room. I was really frustrated. The signal kept dropping, it was so annoying. I needed it for work, and it was a HUGE inconvenience.
0 Helpful
Christopher from United States
Single
Double Room
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed: November 04, 2025
9/10
warm welcome lovely lady shortbread touch
kev provided a very warm welcome on arrival. a lovely lady chatted to me. i immediately felt at home. a shortbread and a wee dram were lovely touches in the room.
the room was not large.
0 Helpful
Charlotte from United Kingdom
Family with children
Family Room
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed: October 21, 2025
7/10
freshly baked scones friendly staff delicious breakfast faulty wifi musty smell non-functional wifi
The room was a lovely Family Room. The breakfast was delicious. Freshly baked scones were a highlight (I especially loved the jam!). The staff was very friendly.
The WiFi was unfortunately not working in the room. It meant I had some trouble staying connected (I really needed it for some work). I also noticed a slight musty smell in the hallway.
0 Helpful
Mike from United States
Family with children
Family Room
3 nights in June 2025
|
Reviewed: August 15, 2025
9/10
pastry selection fresh fruit local sights
The breakfast selection included a cake stand with pastries. Fresh fruit accompanied yoghurts. Staff offered recommendations for local sights.
The building had an ever so slight musty scent.
0 Helpful
Show more reviews
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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