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From113US$ /night
Check-in
14Feb2026Select date
Check-out
15Feb2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Ab35 5Ne The Barrel, 6 Church Square, Ballater, Ballater, United Kingdom, AB35 5NE
-
Close to The Ballater Gallery
Great
8.5
/10

Location

The Barrel is located in Ballater, surrounded by the majestic Scottish Highlands. This hotel provides easy access to scenic trails, including those in Cairngorms National Park, ideal for hiking and cycling. Guests can explore nearby attractions such as Balmoral Castle, a short drive away.

Rooms

The Barrel offers 10 well-appointed rooms, each uniquely styled and equipped with en-suite bathrooms. All rooms provide views of the surrounding mountains, allowing guests to enjoy the picturesque scenery from their windows. Some rooms are fitted with traditional Scottish decor, enhancing the local experience.

Dining

On-site dining is available at The Barrel's restaurant, where guests can savor locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes traditional Scottish dishes and seasonal specialties, crafted to showcase regional flavors. A full Scottish breakfast is served each morning, providing a hearty start to the day.

Wellness

The hotel offers a wellness area with a sauna, providing a space for relaxation after outdoor adventures. Guests can enjoy massages and spa treatments tailored to enhance well-being. Additionally, fitness enthusiasts can access workout facilities on-site.

Activities

The Barrel provides access to various outdoor activities, including fishing, golfing, and wildlife watching. Guests may participate in guided tours to explore the region's rich flora and fauna. The hotel also hosts seasonal events highlighting local culture and traditions.

Highlights

Location: Surrounded by the majestic Scottish Highlands

Rooms: 10 well-appointed rooms with mountain views

Dining: On-site restaurant with traditional Scottish cuisine

Wellness: Wellness area with sauna and massages

Activities: Fishing, golfing, and guided wildlife tours

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.
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Select your preferred room

Choose from standard rooms, family suites, or deluxe options — with breakfast and flexible rates
Double Room
2 persons
10 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Small Double Room
2 persons
10 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Double Room Private Bathroom
2 persons
14 m² 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Double or Twin Room Private Bathroom
2 persons
16 m² 
1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed
Shower
Heating
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Hotel facilities and services

Each hotel provides modern amenities for a relaxing and pleasant stay

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • 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
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The Barrel Hotel Location

Ab35 5Ne The Barrel, 6 Church Square, Ballater, Ballater, United Kingdom, AB35 5NE
Map view
Ab35 5Ne The Barrel, 6 Church Square, Ballater, Ballater, United Kingdom, AB35 5NE
Nearby
Church
Glenmuick Church
50 m
Gallery
The Ballater Gallery
180 m
Gallery
Larks Gallery
400 m
Restaurants
Chalmers Bakery Ltd
70 m
Golf Road
Shorty's Ice Cream Parlour
150 m
25 Bridge Street
Phoenix Chip Shop
230 m
2 Viewfield Road
Explore Ballater
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
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.
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-22:00
Check-out
from 07:00-10:00
Internet
is available in 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.
FAQs
About The Barrel
What time is check-in and check-out at The Barrel?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is at 10:00.
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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