Visitors will soon have the opportunity to explore parts of Balmoral Castle that have never been open to the public before, but it comes with a hefty price tag. The Scottish castle, used by the royal family, will offer guided summer tours from 1 July to 4 August, allowing a limited number of people to glimpse into the private areas of the castle.

For a fee of £100 for an adult ticket, and an additional £50 for afternoon tea, visitors can access two dining rooms, the drawing room, the page’s lobby, and the red corridor, where King Charles greeted Rishi Sunak. The tour also includes a visit to the ballroom, showcasing a collection of Charles’s watercolor paintings and outfits worn by the royal family.

The exclusive experience, limited to 40 people a day in groups of 10, aims to provide a unique insight into the royal residence. The hefty price tag of £150 per person for the tour and high tea makes it the most expensive royal residence for visitors seeking an exclusive experience.

Comparatively, other royal residences such as Buckingham Palace, which offers exclusive guided tours away from the crowds for £95, and St James’s Palace, which charges £80 for an adult, fall short of the price point set by Balmoral Castle. Even the general summer admission to Buckingham Palace costs between £32 and £35, without the inclusion of afternoon tea.

The decision to open up these private areas for public viewing is a trial run to assess how the fragile building copes with increased footfall. With the royal family’s annual break approaching, this initiative offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the historical and cultural significance of Balmoral Castle.

While the price may be steep, the chance to explore the private quarters of a royal residence is a rare and exclusive experience that is sure to attract royal enthusiasts and history buffs alike.