The Auld Kirk Bed & Breakfast Ballater Exterior photoThe Auld Kirk Bed & Breakfast Ballater Exterior photoThe Auld Kirk Bed & Breakfast Ballater Exterior photo
Book on our site
up to 10% cheaper
than Booking.com
Check rooms and rates
From191US$ /night
Check-in
07May2026Select date
Check-out
08May2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

31 Braemar Road, Ballater, Ballater, United Kingdom
-
Close to Glenmuick Church
Perfect
9.6
/10
4.7
4.7
/5

Accommodation

The Auld Kirk offers 7 well-appointed guest bedrooms with en-suite facilities, located on the first floor of the building. A mix of twin, double, and family rooms caters to various guest needs, ensuring everyone can find suitable lodging. One double room includes a bath, while all rooms feature contemporary shower rooms and smart TVs with Netflix access.

Child-Friendly Options

Children are welcomed in the family room, with babies staying free if parents provide their own travel cot. The hotel allows for family-friendly stays, accommodating various needs. This setup ensures families can enjoy their time together without additional costs for younger guests.

Guest Lounge

The comfortable ground floor guest lounge, situated in the former side chapel, is available for resident use. Guests can choose from a range of beers, wines, and spirits, including selections of malt whiskies, served until 9 PM. An external terrace area is also available, allowing guests to enjoy the fine Scottish weather.

Local Attractions

The Auld Kirk is located near Cairngorms National Park and Balmoral Castle, offering access to stunning natural beauty and historic sites. Guests can also play at the nearby Ballater Golf course, enhancing the outdoor experience. These attractions provide diverse options for exploration and recreation.

Welcome Amenities

Upon arrival, guests receive home-made shortbread and a wee dram of Royal Lochnagar 12-year-old reserve whisky, providing a taste of local tradition. Complimentary Nespresso machines and local still and sparkling mineral water are available in all rooms. Scottish Soap Company toiletries ensure quality and comfort.

Highlights

Location: Close to Cairngorms National Park

Accommodation: 7 well-appointed guest bedrooms

Dining: Complimentary Nespresso machine

Child-Friendly: Family room with free baby stay

“The conversion of this historic church into comfortable lodging has resulted in a distinctive experience near Balmoral Castle. The hosts are particularly welcoming, and the breakfast is a highlight, noted for its generous portions and local ingredients. I think it's a memorable base for exploring the area's nature trails and distilleries.”
Hotel logo
Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
View all

Select your room type

The Auld Kirk Bed & Breakfast offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Twin Room
2 persons
165 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Coffee machine
Double Room
2 persons
130 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Family Room
2 persons
165 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

The Auld Kirk Bed & Breakfast offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.5/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Parking
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Hiking
  • Horseback riding
  • Cycling
  • Golf course
  • Fishing

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Picnic area/ Tables
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Children

  • Cots
  • Board games

Spa & Leisure

  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

The Auld Kirk Bed & Breakfast Location

31 Braemar Road, Ballater, Ballater, United Kingdom
Map view
31 Braemar Road, Ballater, Ballater, United Kingdom
Nearby
Church
Glenmuick Church
1200 ft
Gallery
The Ballater Gallery
1200 ft
Gallery
Larks Gallery
1200 ft
Church
St Kentigern's Church
1200 ft
Restaurants
Victoria's
500 ft
1 Braemar Road
The Lochnagar Indian Brasserie
1500 ft
2 Church Square
The Bothy
1100 ft
43 Bridge Street
Deeside Deli & Garden Shop
2100 ft
47 Bridge Street
The Carriage
1200 ft
Station Square Ballater Station
The Balmoral Bar
1200 ft
1 Netherly Place
Glenaden Hotel
1700 ft
6 Church Square
India on the Green Restaurant
1700 ft
9 Victoria Road
The Deeside Inn Restaurant
2000 ft
13-15 Victoria Road
Rock Salt & Snails
2000 ft
2 Bridge Street
Clachan Grill
2100 ft
5 Bridge Square
Bridge House Cafe
2000 ft
Bridge Street
Explore Ballater
Explore Ballater
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Glenmuick Church
5 minutes' walk
A historic church known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings, perfect for a quiet visit.
The Ballater Gallery
5 minutes' walk
An art gallery showcasing local artwork, offering a glimpse into the cultural scene of Ballater.
Crathie Church
20 minutes' walk
This church is famous for its royal connections and beautiful setting amidst stunning landscapes.
McEwan Gallery
25 minutes' walk
Featuring a collection of contemporary art, this gallery celebrates local artists in a vibrant space.
Hiking Trails
20 minutes' drive
Multiple trails ranging from easy to challenging are available, offering stunning views of the Scottish Highlands.
Spa Treatments
8 minutes' walk
Relax with a range of treatments at nearby spas, perfect after a day of hiking or sightseeing.
Mountain Biking
20 minutes' drive
Various biking trails cater to thrill-seekers looking for an adrenaline rush in the rugged terrain.
Victoria's
2 minutes' walk
A cozy spot offering traditional Scottish dishes and warm hospitality, ideal for casual dining.
The Lochnagar Indian Brasserie
6 minutes' walk
An authentic Indian restaurant renowned for its rich curries and vibrant atmosphere; vegetarian options available.
Deeside Deli & Garden Shop
8 minutes' walk
Perfect for fresh, local produce and delicious snacks, plus lovely garden views. Great for casual lunches.
The Carriage
5 minutes' walk
A lively pub offering live music and a relaxed vibe, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Larks Gallery
5 minutes' walk
Regularly features art events and exhibits, creating a vibrant cultural hub for locals and visitors alike.
Getting around
City Centre
Ballater5 min  ·  1400 ft
Airports
Aberdeen (ABZ)95 min  ·  39.3 mi
Dundee (DND)164 min  ·  67.9 mi
Bus
Bus stop15 min  ·  6.0 mi
Want to see Exclusive Early Booking Rate?
Get exlusive rates right now!
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-19:00
Check-out
from 07:00-10:00
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible at a location nearby for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel The Auld Kirk guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
8

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Auld Kirk Bed & Breakfast from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
Housed in a beautifully renovated former church, The Auld Kirk offers uniquely decorated and comfortable rooms, some featuring a Nespresso machine and complimentary whisky. Guests frequently praise the generous and tasty breakfasts, with options like pastries, yogurt, and fresh fruit. Its central location in Ballater makes it ideal for exploring the town and nearby attractions like Balmoral Castle; however, some guests have noted that the property has some oldish aspects. The gardens are a beautiful addition to the property.
Show moreShow less
Review score
Based on 283 verified reviews
9.6/10
Perfect
98%
Recommend
Free Wi-Fi
10.0/10
Breakfast
9.9/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.0/10
Value for money
9.2/10
Pros
Welcoming hosts
Comfortable room
Superb breakfast
High-quality ingredients
Cons
Early bar closure
Audible voices
Guest reviews
based on 283 reviews
9.6/10
based on 621 reviews
9.6/10
Avery from United States
Single
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 12, 2026
7/10
super clean roomfresh fruitgood advicemodem problemnight isolationbad effect
the room, it was double room and it was super clean. Breakfast stand out, I had fresh fruit and croissants. the Owners helped me a lot with good advice about the area, so I did visit a lot of unique places.
the modem did not work in my room, that meant I was isolated all night. I Asked if she would try and re boot it, it was no effect. This morning i didn't feel good.
0 Helpful
Alexander from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 07, 2026
10/10

good stay!

tasty breakfastdoggy baghigh specification
i found the breakfast generous and very tasty. the staff offered me a doggy bag from breakfast. the decor in the former church was done to a high specification.
0 Helpful
Malcolm from Australia
Single
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 29, 2025
9.5/10

Charming Stay in a Converted Church

amazing conversioneasy accessgenerous breakfast
The building conversion from a church is amazing. The location provides easy access to local amenities. The breakfast included many options, such as pastries and freshly cooked items. I even took some leftovers for a later snack. The hosts offered very useful local insights .
The water pressure in the shower was somewhat low.
Dining
9/10
Breakfast included croissants, pastries, fruit, muffins, yoghurts, and scones, all arranged attractively. A freshly cooked breakfast followed. It was tasty. Attentive staff catered to all needs in the dining area.
Rooms
10/10
The double room featured thoughtful details. Local bottled water and shortbread were provided. The bathroom was spacious and included nice products. The room's decor complemented the building's unique character.
Service
10/10
The hosts were very helpful with local information. The welcome was genuinely warm on arrival. I felt at home immediately. Staff ensured every need was met with care.
Facilities
9/10
THE building is maintained beautifully. The conversion retains sympathetic features to its origins. The location provides a short walk into central areas. There is a bar on the premises with a variety of drinks.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Isabella from Italy
Couple
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 26, 2025
9.3/10

amazing stay at a charming spot!!!

cozy feellovely touchfresh fruitdouble occupancy
kevin and helen were so cute and informative, they told us all about the area. the room had such a cozy feel, with a dram and shortbread waiting for us which i thought was a lovely touch. breakfast was AMAZING!!! helen's cooking was so special, i enjoyed the fresh fruit, yogurts, and tasty cooked breakfast.
the owners changed the room to single occupancy right away (removing the extra mug, whisky, and biscuits), but i was charged for double occupancy. i found that a little mean spirited.
Service
10/10
the owners provided excellent advice on local attractions, and directions were easy to follow, which helped us explore confidently. lisa served us breakfast each morning and was cheerful. this really made each start to the day so much brighter.
Location
9/10
the hotel is set in a charming village, so beautiful and picturesque, and i really enjoyed exploring it. the building has character and is nicely converted, this is really nice. i found it was a short walk to the village centre.
Rooms
9/10
our room was well equipped and it included a coffee machine. the room was very warm and spotlessly clean, this. homemade shortbread was left in the room with a nip of whisky.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Walter from Germany
Single
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 11, 2025
6/10

mixed feelings about my stay

poor ventilation
i found a couple of issues . the bathroom lacked proper ventilation, a real inconvenience.
0 Helpful
Dave from United Kingdom
Couple
Double Room
3 nights in June 2025
|
Reviewed:September 09, 2025
5/10
homemade croissantsnon-working wifiinsincere excuses
Breakfast included homemade croissants, I must say.
The room WIFI did NOT work. I asked about it before going to our room and was assured it was working so I had no reason to doubt them. He reluctantly rebooted the modem, but nothing changed and I got insincere excuses.
0 Helpful
John from United Kingdom
Couple
Double Room
3 nights in June 2025
|
Reviewed:July 19, 2025
10/10

really good experience

fresh dishesgenerous breakfast
the breakfast was generous. fresh dishes were cooked to order. i even took leftovers for a walk in the morning.
0 Helpful
Questions of the users
About The Auld Kirk
Are there any nearby pubs within walking distance for dinner and drinks?
10 January 2024
Absolutely, there are three charming pubs just a five-minute stroll away that serve delicious food and drinks.
Are evening meals available at this accommodation?
15 February 2024
Evening meals are not offered on-site, but a variety of bars and restaurants are within a short walk, and assistance with bookings can be provided.
What is the total number of rooms available at this establishment?
20 March 2024
The accommodation features a total of seven rooms, each designed to comfortably host two adults.
Is this accommodation suitable for guests traveling with dogs?
5 April 2024
Unfortunately, pets are not permitted at this establishment.
Is motorcycle parking available on-site?
1 May 2024
Yes, dedicated parking for motorcycles is available.
Are there options for gluten-free breakfast items?
25 June 2024
Gluten-free breakfast choices can be accommodated with prior notice at the time of booking.
How close is the parking area to the accommodation?
15 July 2024
Parking is conveniently located right outside the front door, requiring just a few steps to access.
Are vegan breakfast options available upon request?
1 August 2024
Yes, vegan breakfast can be provided with advance notice.
What time is breakfast served each morning?
10 September 2024
Breakfast is served daily from 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM.
Is there a lift available to access the accommodation's first floor?
20 October 2024
There is no elevator; access is via a wide, shallow staircase to the first floor.
What attractions are nearby for guests to explore during their stay?
15 November 2024
The accommodation is a great base for exploring the beautiful Cairngorms National Park, Balmoral Castle, and the picturesque Ballater Golf Course.
Is it possible to have an additional bed in the room for a child?
5 December 2024
Extra beds cannot be accommodated in the rooms.

Next best alternative

Consider them for your next trip.
Check-in
07May2026Select date
Check-out
08May2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room