It's been a rollercoaster period of time for His Majesty King Charles III who has been blasted over his alleged nonchalant response to Princess Diana's death by her brother Earl Charles Spencer, in his new book entitled: Swan song: Diana, my sister. Despite the controversy, it's business as usual for the monarch and his royal homes with Balmoral Castle reopening for its autumn season.
The announcement was made on the castle's official Instagram page, with the statement reading: "We’re delighted to welcome visitors back to Balmoral for our 2026 Autumn Opening. The grounds and gardens are now open to explore, along with the Ballroom Exhibition and Mews Gift Shop, while our Restaurant is ready to welcome you during your visit. Our autumn opening runs through to Sunday 1st November, with tickets available to book online now.
© WireImage"A selection of special experiences will also take place throughout the autumn and early winter, including Castle Interior Tours, Evenings at Balmoral and Balmoral Expedition Tours. Whether you’re returning to Balmoral or visiting us for the first time, we look forward to welcoming you this autumn. For full opening dates and times, and to book your tickets, please visit our website."
Post-accession, the monarch has made numerous changes at Balmoral, opening more of its interior for public tours, keen to allow people to see the majestic property in all its glory. He also removed a television set that his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, used in the castle library, which Charles now uses as a working study.
The royal history of the castle
© Getty ImagesThe privately owned Aberdeenshire estate has served as an iconic Scottish retreat for the royal family for decades. The estate has become synonymous with royal summer holidays, offering expansive grounds and rich wildlife habitats that provide a picturesque backdrop for royalty to enjoy away from official duties.
The property was Queen Elizabeth II's most beloved residence - and the place where she spent her final days - and it still remains a much-loved part of the royal family. In the documentary Our Queen at Ninety, Princess Eugenie famously spoke out about her grandmother's love of the estate: "I think Granny is the most happy there. I think she really, really loves the Highlands... Walks, picnics, dogs - a lot of dogs, there's always dogs! -and people coming in and out. It's a lovely base for Granny and Granddad, for us to come and see them up there, where you just have room to breathe and run."
