King Charles III has made a rather significant change to the monarchy's public image, especially through opening up more of the royal residencies to the public. After how successful last year's tours were, it's no surprise that the King and Queen Camilla are allowing visitors inside their Highland home once more.
As the summer dates approach, the residence has been sharing more and more glimpses of the castle's interiors on social media – but one feature at Balmoral might be quite divisive amongst royal fans.
In a picture previously shared to Instagram by the official Balmoral Castle account, followers were treated with a look inside one of the residence's dining rooms, which features an incredibly surprising ornament as its centrepiece.
Hanging from the ceiling is a remarkable statement piece: an antler chandelier, which seems rather surprising given King Charles' impassioned animal rights advocacy, though it is impossible to say for sure whether or not it's real.
Rachel Avery, Homes Editor at HELLO!, shared her insight on the piece at the time, stating: "Historic stately homes often have real animal decor including deer antlers so there's a chance that this feature in Balmoral is an antique piece."
© InstagramThe interiors expert added: "As Charles is a patron of the RSPCA, the topic of animal cruelty is close to his heart, so if this is a new addition, it's likely to be a replica rather than the real deal."
King Charles' changes at Balmoral Castle
Permitting visitors to take a look around the breathtaking interiors of Balmoral Castle is a major change for the royal family.
© GettyThough the grounds are open to the public between April and August, guests can also explore inside the castle in June and July, including rooms the British royal family still use to this day, including the Entrance Hall, the Red Corridor, the Library, the Family Dining Room and the Drawing Room. It's a hot ticket, however, with spaces selling out quickly every year.
Tickets for the interior castle tour cost £110 per person, while for £170, visitors can enjoy an afternoon tea fit for a royal, which includes savoury and sweet treats such as Balmoral Estate venison sausage rolls, cucumber, cream cheese and black truffle sandwiches, and chocolate salted caramel canelés.
After the late Queen Elizabeth II died at the castle in 2022, King Charles has continued the tradition of hosting the royals at the estate for their summer break, hence why the grounds close again in early August.
© Alamy Stock ImageThe website explains: "Our experienced guides will explain about the origins of the Castle and how it has been loved by generations of the Royal Family; from the purchase of the Balmoral Estate by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, through to the present day, where rooms within the Castle are used today by Their Majesties The King and Queen and members of the Royal Family."
Purchased by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria in 1852, the current Scottish castle was completed in 1856. Spanning over 53,000 acres, this historic estate features 45 acres of beautifually manicured gardens, woodland walks, and even a golf course.
It also features the popular Mews Gift Shop, an on-site restaurant, and the Castle Ballroom, which hosts special seasonal exhibitions.
The estate serves as the backdrop for cherished royal traditions, hosting both the Braemer Highland Games and the Ghillies Ball. It is also a haven for outdoor pursuits; the royal family regularly enjoys hiking, horseback riding, and fishing on the spacious grounds every summer.
