Victorian Heritage Trail

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Drum Castle combines a unique mix of a late 13th century tower, fine Jacobean mansion house and later Victorian additions. Superb furniture and paintings are on display while the estate's woodland trails and exceptional walled rose garden are well worth exploring.

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The Royal Deeside Railway Line was regularly patronised by the Royal Family and their guests to the Balmoral Estate. Experience a real, royal journey as you travel by steam train along the original track, just as Queen Victoria would have done on her visits. On arrival back at the station, enjoy a light lunch or high tea and marvel at the glorious views over Royal Deeside from the Carriage Tearoom.

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Crathes is a classic fairytale castle standing in superb grounds with a range of woodland trails on offer to help you explore. Inside, spiral staircases lead to rooms famous for their Jacobean painted ceilings and resident ghost, the Green Lady. Outside, the gardens feature large yew hedges and a colourful double herbaceous border. The wider estate offers six separate walking trails to enjoy, as well as a Go Ape! treetop adventure park and children's adventure playground.

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Take a leisurely stroll around the spectacular Finzean Estate, home of the Farquharson family for over 400 years. The ancestral home of Victorian painter Joseph Farquharson, or 'the Painting Laird', Finzean Estate has an incredible collection of Victorian art. Sample local treats at the Farm Shop or enjoy supper in the award-winning tearoom and take part in a host of traditional estate activities including clay pigeon shooting and salmon fishing.

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Glen Tanar Estate is situated within the Cairngorms National Park, in the heart of Royal Deeside. Stroll around the private loch and enjoy the view from the beautifully restored Victorian Boathouse. Tour the house and marvel at the ballroom and Tower of Ess or simply enjoy a turn around the finely landscaped Victorian gardens, you could even try cycling, horse riding and fishing.

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This woodland is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. Take a stroll through the magnificent Scots pine trees to breathe in the scents of the forest around you. As you walk, make sure to keep on the lookout for red squirrels, which make their homes in the trees.

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Spend time exploring the lovely Ballater. Wander around the burgh, perusing the shops, many of which proudly display Royal Warrants. This planned agricultural town dates back to the 1800s. A stroll around the town reveals a fascinating range of many speciality shops and friendly hotels and guest houses.

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Royal Deeside is home to the famous Balmoral Castle, a firm favourite with the Royal Family. The estate has been in the family since 1848, after it was purchased by Queen Victoria. Enjoy a stroll around castle gardens, visit the ballroom and special exhibitions or relax with a drink in the coffee and gift shop.

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Take a stroll by the peaceful Loch Muick, situated on the border of the Balmoral Estate and the surrounding forest. A wide variety of birds and animals can be found around the loch, including red squirrels, red deers and oyster catchers. Follow the path down the lochside to the spectacular royal bothy of Glas-allt-Shiel, which was built for Queen Victoria and became her much loved respite. Now the bothy is a popular retreat for Prince Charles.

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Pay a visit to a place which was dear to the heart of Queen Victoria, the Royal Lochnagar Distillery. In 1848 the owner of Lochnagar Distillery invited Prince Albert, who was an enthusiast of mechanics, to visit and inspect the premises. Queen Victoria, Prince Albert and their three eldest children attended and were so impressed they bestowed a 'By Royal Appointment' warrant on the distillery. Go on a guided tour of the distillery to learn about the traditional distillation process and, of course, sample a dram of their award-winning whisky.

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At Braemar you could simply stop for a break and wander the high street, or take the opportunity to stretch your legs and enjoy the open spaces of the national park. For a gentle circular walk, follow Queen's Drive and River Clunie circuit which follows the river before joining Queen's Drive, one of Queen Victoria's favoured routes. Braemar is also home to the Braemar Gathering, a Highland games which always takes place on the first Saturday of September and is usually attended by members of the Royal family.

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Braemar Castle is the seat of Clan Farquharson and is best known for its unusual star-shaped wall. This 17th century stronghold was most recently furnished with many interesting curios in the 1950s by the flamboyant first wife of the Laird. Take a guided tour of the castle with a local volunteer or with an audio guide.