As long as she was alive Balmoral Castle was Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother’s one of favourite residences. For half a year, she would quietly spend her days, away from the public glare, keeping to herself, and not interfering in any of her families’ matters. Many a days, she would be at the Birkhall Mansion, also part of Balmoral Estate.  

Balmoral Castle has long been a favourite haunt of whoever has possessed it. Before it came into the British Royal Family’s possession, families of various Earls and nobles of the area owned it.  

It came into the royal family’s possession in 1848 when it was leased by Prince Albert for his wife, Queen Victoria. Four years later, he purchased it. The Queen Consort then completely rebuilt the 15 century castle and extended it to include many new structures. His subsequent successors added more structure to it.  

Along with Sandringham House, in Norfolk, England, Balmoral Castle is a privately owned family residence of the Royal Family and not part of the official Royal Estate. The Queen herself takes a keen interest in its management and employees some 50 full-time and an equal number part-time staff.