One of the highlights of our week at the Boat of Garten was a day out with Bridget and Poppy to Balmoral Castle, quite a magical and special place. Before we arrived we stopped to have a look around the church at Crathes. I was surprised how small the church was, it always appears larger when you see it on the television.

There has been a church on or around this site since the 6th Century. The building work of this present Church was started in 1893 when Queen Victoria laid the foundation stone. Work finished in 1895. Today, our present Queen along with members of the Royal Family always attends the Sunday morning service here whilst staying at Balmoral. Just a short drive from the church we arrived at Balmoral Castle. We spent the day here just walking round the grounds and gardens it is such a wonderful peaceful place. Balmoral Castle has been the Scottish home of the Royal Family since it was purchased for Queen Victoria by Prince Albert in 1852.