The Auld Kirk, Ballater ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2026

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Key details

About the Hotel

31 Braemar Road, Ballater, Ballater, United Kingdom

Close to Glenmuick Church

Perfect

9.6

/10

4.8

4.7

Loved by The Auld Kirk Bed & Breakfast guests

Warm welcome
Home-baked treats
Delicious breakfast
Beautifully decorated rooms

"Set inside a stunning Victorian Scottish church from 1860, the property is full of charm and character."

Alexandre from United States

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"We were welcomed with homemade shortbread and really nice Whisky......and the scones at breakfast were very good."

Dottie H from United Kingdom

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"We found 2 complimentary drams of local whisky and Helen's shortbread in the room on our arrival."

Christine from Switzerland

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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.”

James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.8/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningBreakfast fit royalty

The breakfast offerings were beautiful and of high quality. The homemade muffins and scones were delicious and fresh baked.

Oliver Smith from United Kingdom

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Guest ParkingEasy parking

Free parking right outside on the road makes it easy to come and go. There is plenty of room to park.

Emma Davis from Canada

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Room FeaturesPerfectly decorated

Rooms were perfectly decorated and spotless. There were little extra touches in the room, a real treat!

Isabella Rossi from Italy

Review on

DiningAfternoon Tea

The afternoon tea surpassed any I have had. The food was plentiful and varied, homemade cakes and chocolates too.

Mei Lin from China

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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

room details

Double Room

2 persons

130 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

Family Room

2 persons

165 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Coffee machine

room details

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
Free parking
Off-site car park
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

The Auld Kirk Bed & Breakfast Location

31 Braemar Road, Ballater, Ballater, United Kingdom

Map view

31 Braemar Road, Ballater, Ballater, United Kingdom

City landmarks

Landmark

Crathie Church

1.0 mi

Gallery

McEwan Gallery

1.4 mi

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

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 Airport (ABZ)95 min · 39.3 mi

Dundee Airport (DND)164 min · 67.9 mi

Bus

Bus stop15 min · 6.0 mi

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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:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Auld Kirk Bed & Breakfast from previous guests about their experience.

Review score

Based on 276 verified reviews

9.6/10

Perfect

98%

Recommend

Breakfast

9.9/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Comfort

9.8/10

Facilities

9.5/10

Free Wi-Fi

10.0/10

Location

9.8/10

Paid Wi-Fi

8.0/10

Staff

9.8/10

Value for money

9.2/10

Pros

Welcoming hosts

Comfortable room

Superb breakfast

High-quality ingredients

Cons

Early bar closure

Audible voices

No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.

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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.

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