King Charles to unveil Balmoral Castle garden redesign – featuring a thistle maze

king charles at balmoral castle
Balmoral Castle garden gets redesign with new maze Fox Photos - Getty Images

King Charles III has unveiled the redesigned gardens at Balmoral Castle, complete with a thistle maze and incredible planting displays.

The royal residence, nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, is 'stepping into a new era' as it opens its doors to the public for the first time in history.

Their Majesties King Charles and Queen Camilla have led the redevelopment of existing gardens, the addition of new garden areas, and the redesign of the new restaurant and cafe with a focus on Scottish produce.

While staying loyal to Balmoral's roots as the private highland home of the royal family, the estate is set to become 'more accessible' than ever before.

Exciting changes to the garden include various new trees and flowers, a shed for storing tools and equipment, a Scottish-themed maze that pays tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, and another thistle maze.

the royal family on the grounds at balmoral castle, 1960
The royal family on the grounds at Balmoral Castle, 1960 Bettmann - Getty Images

The second royal maze in 300 years, the thistle-shaped offering features several trees and a mini castle tower constructed near the iconic Garden Cottage. The maze gates have been designed to reflect the initials of King Charles and Queen Camilla.

A recent statement issued by the royal residence read: "From Tuesday April 1 to Sunday August 10, you can explore our grounds, gardens, exhibitions, and more.

"Visitors will have the chance to discover the exciting changes HM The King has made to the gardens, including the Thistle maze, the Celtic maze garden, and new plantings of trees, shrubs and topiary.

balmoral castle exterior
ad_foto - Getty Images

"In 2025, the exhibition in the Ballroom will continue the garden theme, showcasing the history of Balmoral Castle's gardens over the past 170 years and offering a glimpse into HM King Charles III's vision for the future."

Back in July last year, extra staff members were hired for the 'growing team of gardeners' to help complete work on time.

The Castle grounds opened its doors for the first time in July 2024, but now the transformed gardens are also complete.

For more details on how to book tickets, visit balmoralcastle.digitickets.co.uk.


Painted Oak Bird Box

Country Living Marketplace
Country Living Marketplace

£35.00 at Country Living Marketplace


Stoneware Ceramic Plant Markers and Labels

Country Living Marketplace
Country Living Marketplace

£14.90 at Country Living Marketplace


Garden Snips in Leather Pouch

Country Living Marketplace
Country Living Marketplace

£8.00 at Country Living Marketplace


Ladies Gardening Shoe

Country Living Marketplace
Country Living Marketplace

£79.00 at Country Living Marketplace


Butterfly Enamel Mug

Country Living Marketplace
Country Living Marketplace

£14.00 at Country Living Marketplace


Willow Hare Kit

Country Living Marketplace
Country Living Marketplace

£53.00 at Country Living Marketplace

You Might Also Like