King Charles' beloved Scottish sanctuary has shared an update after it was forced to close during the week.
While the King is in the Bahamas on his Caribbean royal tour, Balmoral Castle shut its gates to visitors on Tuesday 27 October amid a severe weather warning, writing in a public announcement: "Due to the weather warning in place for strong winds, Balmoral will be closed today (Tuesday 27th) for the safety of our visitors and team."
The estate apologised for "any disappointment or inconvenience" caused and was also closed to the public on Sunday due to the Amber warning in the area.
© Alamy Stock PhotoThe 50-000-acre grounds have now reopened to the public. "Our grounds and gardens remain open to explore until Sunday 1st November, alongside the Ballroom Exhibition, Mews Gift Shop and Restaurant," a follow-up announcement read.
It continued: "From Wednesday 4th November, we'll be welcoming visitors with free admission and no tickets required, however, the Castle Ballroom will be closed during this period. Throughout November, Balmoral will be open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am–4pm and closed on Mondays and Tuesdays."
"Whether you're planning a visit this week or looking ahead to November, we look forward to welcoming you through the gates at Balmoral."
Balmoral is a 'uniquely special' home to Charles
Balmoral Castle is nestled within the Cairngorms National Park in Aberdeenshire and boasts 52 bedrooms and a grand entrance hall. It's been cherished by the royal family since Prince Albert purchased the Scottish estate in 1852 and has become an annual summer retreat for the royals during their busy calendar year.
© Fox Photos"With its buildings of startling individuality, which never fail to fascinate, and its precious, almost sacred, surrounding landscape, it is a place where there is constant change, yet everything remains unaltered, with a sense of timelessness which refreshes the soul," Charles wrote fondly about the property in the foreword to a new official guidebook.
"Since my earliest childhood, it has held, and continues to hold, a uniquely special place in the hearts of my family and myself, and my late mother particularly treasured her time at Balmoral. It was here, in these most beloved of surroundings, that she chose to spend her final days," he added.
