King Charles makes historic change to Balmoral
King Charles has made a historic change to Balmoral for the first time ever, allowing the public for an exclusive look inside the royal residence.
Later this year, the King will allow public tours of the Scottish castle, with small group tours available to be led by expert royal guides.
Those being shown around the royal residence will get a unique glimpse in several rooms used by the King and Queen.
A source close to the royal family said the initiative was in line with the King's wish to make royal residences more accessible to the public.
It also reflects Charles' comments made after Queen Elizabeth's death, that the house had been earmarked as a place for the public to remember her.
While Balmoral holds a lot of historical importance, the Scottish residence is not set up to handle a large influx of tourists.
As a result, a month-long tour programme to begin in July will serve as a trial period to see how the castle and staff copes with increased footfall.
Until now, the interior of the vast castle has largely remained out of bounds to members of the public, with tours limited to just the ballroom, the grounds and the gardens.
The Balmoral estate announced the tours on Tuesday on its website, stating, "For the first time since the castle was completed in 1855, we have been granted permission to take you on a private tour with our experienced guides."
"They will take you on a historical journey through several of the beautiful rooms within Balmoral Castle. You will learn about the origins of the Castle and how it has been loved by generations of the Royal family."
"You will see why Balmoral is such a special place - the much loved and celebrated Highland home of the Royal family."
Only forty tickets each day will be sold for the "castle interior tour" for £100 ($193 AUD), or £150 ($289 AUD) if afternoon tea is included.
The tours will take place from July 1st until August 4th, before the King and Queen arrive for their annual break.
The season begins later this year due to the refurbishment of the restaurant but if successful, the opening hours will likely be extended in the future.
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