The Balmoral Cairns

“Every year my heart becomes more fixed in this paradise” (Queen Victoria, 1855)

Join us for a guided walk around The Balmoral Cairns, a collection of historical cairns erected by the Royal Family to commemorate significant events, a real hidden treasure in Aberdeenshire.

There are eleven Cairns on the Balmoral Estate, eight of which you can visit on this circular walk. The first Cairn to be built was the Purchase Cairn atop the hill Craig Gowan. It commemorates the purchase of the Balmoral Estate by Prince Albert in 1852. This Cairn, like all the others visited (with the exception of the “Aberdeenshire Pyramid”) are conical in shape and extremely elegant in a simple, rustic and understated way. Made of granite stone, they are covered in lichen, weathered with time and sit beautifully within their surroundings.

The impressive pyramid shaped Prince Albert’s Cairn sits on top of Craig an Lurachain. It was built in the beloved memory of Albert, the Great and Good Prince Consort, erected by his broken hearted widow Queen Victoria in August 1862.

Your guide will point out the historical features and tell you a little bit about the Royals, who have enjoyed and influenced this beautiful estate.  For nature lovers, there will also be plenty of flora and fauna to spot along the way.

Meet Time, Location & Estimated Walk Duration

Meet at the Balmoral car park at 9:30am for an 9:45am start.

There is a charge to park of £5 for the day.

This walk can take 3-4 hours depending on the weather and group. Distance – 10km (6 miles), total ascent – 390m.

Joining Details & Kit

Joining details, participation forms and kit lists will be sent out the week before the walk

Please have a look in our shop, we can post or deliver items to you at the event. All participants receive a 15% discount on goods (except gift vouchers, sale items and books).

Limited to 8 participants.

Please contact us for any additional information.

Terms and Conditions apply.