What's happened
Balmoral Castle, the late Queen's favourite residence, will open its doors to the public for exclusive guided tours of the royal family's private rooms. Tickets, priced at £100 or £150 with afternoon tea, are limited to 40 per day, offering visitors a historical journey through the castle's beautiful rooms from the Victorian era to the present day.
Why it matters
The opening of Balmoral Castle for private tours provides a rare opportunity for the public to explore the royal family's private rooms and gain insight into their history and lifestyle. This exclusive experience offers a unique glimpse into the royal family's world and is likely to attract royal enthusiasts and tourists seeking a behind-the-scenes look at the historic castle.
What the papers say
Sky News and The Independent highlight the significance of Balmoral Castle opening its private rooms to the public for the first time, offering exclusive guided tours. The Scotsman provides details on the renovated House of Gods hotel in Glasgow, contrasting the luxury experience with the historical charm of Balmoral Castle. Metro covers the announcement of Buckingham Palace opening its east wing to visitors, adding to the royal attractions available for public tours.
How we got here
Balmoral Castle, located in Aberdeenshire, has been a private royal residence since the 1850s and holds historical significance as a beloved holiday home for the royal family. The decision to open the private rooms for guided tours marks a new chapter in the castle's accessibility to the public, providing a unique opportunity to explore the royal family's living spaces.
Common question
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Balmoral Castle is a large estate house in Royal Deeside, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, owned by Queen Elizabeth II. It is near the village of Crathie, 6.2 miles west of Ballater and 6.8 miles east of Braemar.
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Charles, Prince of Wales is the heir apparent to the British throne as the eldest child of Queen Elizabeth II. He has been Duke of Cornwall and Duke of Rothesay since 1952, and he is the oldest and longest-serving heir apparent in British history.
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Buckingham Palace is the London residence and administrative headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom. Located in the City of Westminster, the palace is often at the centre of state occasions and royal hospitality.
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Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, GCVO, CSM, PC is a member of the British royal family. She is the second wife of Charles, Prince of Wales, heir apparent to the British throne.
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The British royal family comprises Queen Elizabeth II and her close relations. There is no strict legal or formal definition of who is or is not a member of the British royal family.
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Elizabeth II is the queen of the United Kingdom and the other Commonwealth realms. She was born in London as the first child of the Duke and Duchess of York, later King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, and she was educated privately at home.