Rainy Day at Balmoral

Balmoral has belonged to the the British Royal family since 1852, when it was purchased by queen Victoria. It is a private residence owned by the royals so it closes in August for the queen's visit and extended stay. The estate is next to the river Dee and it was thought to be good for one's health to be near the river. It was raining like crazy when we arrived. It should be great for my asthma!

Look how lush and green it is!

This is the south side of the castle. It was designed by William Smith, city architect of Aberdeen, in 1853. They used granite quarried from the estate. The style was known as Scots Baronial but it was considered somewhat Germanic as parts of the design were greatly influenced by Victoria's husband, Prince Albert of Saxe-Coberg and Gotha.

This is the front and side

The sunken gardens were added by George V during the 1910's and 1920's

Sue, Rachael and Rick walking through the grounds

This is a bridge queen Victoria had built over the river Dee. It was designed by one of the most famous British engineer of the 19th century, Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

View of the river Dee from the bridge.

Leslie, this is a wooden corgie!!!

Rick and Eileen taking a tea break in the restaurant at Balmoral.