What time is check-in and check-out at The Barrel?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is at 10:00.
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THE BARREL, Ballater
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Key details
About the Hotel
Ab35 5Ne The Barrel, 6 Church Square, Ballater, Ballater, AB35 5NE,
- Close to The Ballater Gallery
Great
8.5
Location
The Barrel offers a scenic retreat in Ballater, surrounded by the stunning landscapes of
Rooms
The hotel includes an array of well-appointed rooms, designed for comfort and convenience. Each room features
Dining
Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options at The Barrel, including a
Activities
The hotel supports an active lifestyle with opportunities for
Events and Conferences
The Barrel provides facilities for hosting events, including meetings and private functions. The
Highlights
Dining: Hearty breakfast menu with local produce
Location: Scenic retreat near Cairngorms National Park
Activities: Fishing, golfing, and nearby hiking trails
Events: Meeting facilities for hosting events
Must-do experiences
- Savor local haggis at The Chippy for a true Scottish treat.
- Visit the Balmoral Castle and stroll its picturesque gardens.
- Explore the Royal Deeside Heritage Trail for stunning views.
- Check out the Ballater Church for its unique architecture.
- Enjoy fresh produce at the Ballater Farmers' Market on Thursdays.
Select your preferred room
Choose from standard rooms, family suites, or deluxe options — with breakfast and flexible rates
- Double Room2 persons10 m²1 Double bedHeatingShowerroom details
- Small Double Room2 persons10 m²1 Double bedHeatingShowerroom details
- Double Room Private Bathroom2 persons14 m²1 Double bedHeatingShowerroom details
Show all rooms
View our calendar
Check prices and secure your dates today
May 2026 - May 2027
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Check-in/ Check-out
Hotel facilities and services
Each hotel provides modern amenities for a relaxing and pleasant stay
General
- No smoking on site
- Parking
- VIP check-in/ -out
- Pets allowed
- Security
- Smoke detectors
- Fire extinguishers
- Key access
Guest Parking
- Electric kettle
Services
- Pet amenities available
- Housekeeping
- Welcome drink
Dining
- Restaurant
- Bar/ Lounge area
- Special diet menus
Business
- Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Children
- Cots
- Children's menu
Spa & Leisure
- Live entertainment
- Sun terrace
Room features
- Free Wi-Fi in rooms
- Heating
- Terrace
- Garden furniture
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
Media
- Flat-screen TV
Room decor
- Carpeted floor
Show more
The Barrel Location
Ab35 5Ne The Barrel, 6 Church Square, Ballater, Ballater, AB35 5NE,
Explore Ballater
Local Highlights
Glenmuick Church
1 minute walking
Historic chapel with stunning architecture and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for reflection and photography.
The Ballater Gallery
3 minutes walking
Showcases local art and crafts with regular exhibitions, making it a great spot for art enthusiasts.
Crathie Church
3 minutes driving
Known for its beautiful setting near Balmoral, this charming church holds historical significance and offers a serene visit.
McEwan Gallery
4 minutes driving
Features contemporary art from local and national artists, with unique displays and events that attract culture lovers.
Hiking in Glen Muick
25 minutes driving
Offers scenic trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
Yoga by the River
8 minutes walking
Relaxing outdoor yoga sessions available seasonally, ideal for unwinding while enjoying the natural surroundings.
Chalmers Bakery Ltd
1 minute walking
A cozy bakery known for its fresh pastries and coffees, perfect for a quick snack or leisurely breakfast.
Shorty's Ice Cream Parlour
2 minutes walking
Specializes in delightful homemade ice creams with various flavors, offering a sweet treat for families and couples alike.
Phoenix Chip Shop
3 minutes walking
Popular for its traditional fish and chips, served in a laid-back atmosphere, great for a casual meal after a day out.
Local Pubs and Bars
5 minutes walking
Vibrant spaces offering live music and friendly atmospheres, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Live Music Nights
6 minutes walking
Local venues feature regular live performances, providing an exciting night out for all ages and musical tastes.
Getting around the city
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-22:00
Check-out
from 07:00-10:00
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Breakfast
You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP10 per person per day.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Guest ratings and detailed reviews
Feedback about The Barrel from previous guests about their experience.
Show moreShow less
Pros
Clean rooms
Good breakfast
Comfortable room
Excellent staff
Good location
Cons
Loud noise
Low water pressure
Guest reviewsbased on 140 reviews
Stella from Italy
Couple
Double Room Private Bathroom
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 07, 2026
9.0/10
FANTASTIC stay!
village square comfortable room tasty meal
the location IS perfect, right on the village square. The room was really comfortable AND the breakfast was excellent. The staff members were helpful with assisting us with our luggage! dinner WAS fantastic, the meals were tasty AND the music choices were great.
the rooms ARE above a pub and poorly soundproofed. i couldn't sleep until 1 am because IT was a friday. people wanted to have fun AND it was at our rest's expense. the shower HAD very low pressure.
Rooms
9/10
the room was very clean AND recently decorated. It featured a comfortable bed AND a modern bathroom WITH a spacious shower. there WAS also a nice window overlooking the park.
Facilities
8/10
the hotel's pub offered a SUPER atmosphere WITH good food. Breakfast IN the morning was fresh AND wonderfully prepared WITH several options. check-in and check-out were completely fuss-free AND efficient.
Service
10/10
the staff IS very friendly AND cute to guests. they ARE helpful WITH luggage assistance AND any inquiries. the team creates a warm AND inviting atmosphere FOR everyone.
0 Helpful
|
Luke from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room Private Bathroom
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 01, 2026
6/10
bad soundproofing low shower pressure
The soundproofing was bad. i couldn't sleep well because the pub noise went on until late. It was really annoying. also. the shower pressure was low. It made showering difficult. there wasn't any alternative to the scottish breakfast. I wanted something else
0 Helpful
Nick from United Kingdom
Single
double room private bathroom
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: November 27, 2025
6/10
a mixed experience
small room no hanging space
the room was very comfy and tidy. food was good.
The room was really small, it had no hanging space for clothes. there was only one bedside table. This was quite inconvenient as there was nowhere to put personal items.
0 Helpful
rosie from united kingdom
Single
double room private bathroom
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed: September 17, 2025
9.3/10
a cosy space with really good breakfast
clean room beautiful location really good breakfast
the rooms were very clean and tidy. the location is beautiful. the breakfast was really good, i must say. everything was straightforward and easy.
The room was really small. There was no hanging space for clothes, and only one bedside table.
Facilities
9/10
Parking is right behind the hotel. the car park is free to use. the hotel is clean and well maintained. It showed. there is a lovely bar and a great restaurant on the premises.
Location
10/10
The location is excellent. the hotel faces the village green. it is located right in the centre. i found the little town beautiful with the surrounding mountains and views. The location to shops is excellent.
Dining
9/10
The food was amazing!!! the bar has a good selection of beers. the breakfast was good and hearty. It started my day off perfectly. i enjoyed lunch and evening meals served here too.
0 Helpful
|
Evelyn from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room Private Bathroom
4 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed: September 11, 2025
6/10
Acceptable stay with some issues
low pressure small room
The location was handy to find.
The shower had very low pressure. It was hard to wash my hair properly. My room was small. there was only one bedside table.
0 Helpful
Show more reviews
FAQs
About The Barrel
How far is The Barrel from Aberdeen Airport?
The hotel is located 65 km from Aberdeen Airport.
What dining options are available at The Barrel?
The hotel features a restaurant serving British cuisine, as well as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
What are some popular restaurants close to The Barrel?
Nearby restaurants include The Bothy, Glenaden Hotel, and Shorty's Ice Cream Parlour, all located within 0.5 km.
What room amenities does The Barrel provide?
Rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, and private bathrooms with free toiletries.
Is Wi-Fi included at The Barrel?
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
Does The Barrel allow pets?
Pets are allowed on request.
What attractions are close to The Barrel?
The hotel is 18 km from Balmoral Castle and 47 km from CairnGorm National Park.
Does The Barrel offer breakfast?
A Full English/Irish breakfast is available for an additional charge of 10 GBP.
Are there family-friendly features at The Barrel?
The hotel offers family rooms and a children's menu.
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