Ghosts of Balmoral Castle

Balmoral Castle resides in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, along the River Dee within the Cairngorms National Park. Owned by the royal family, the estate spans over 53,000 acres and features scenic highland landscapes filled with forests, rivers, and rolling hills.

The site's picturesque setting set the stage for a remarkable history. Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria, leased the estate in 1848 and purchased it in 1852. He demolished the existing old house and laid the foundation for a new castle, completed in 1856.

Since then, the castle has remained a private royal residence, passed down through generations. Hosting important family events on occasion, it also served as the summer residence of Queen Elizabeth II, who died at the castle on September 8th, 2022.

Despite its relatively recent construction and lack of historical battles or violence, the castle is still said to host a resident spirit or two.

One such spirit often reported is that of John Brown, a Scottish ghillie (servant and outdoor attendant) who became a close companion to Queen Victoria after the death of Prince Albert in 1861. He provided emotional support to the grieving Queen, and unconfirmed rumors suggested a deeper relationship. He lived and worked at Balmoral and died at Windsor Castle in 1883.

Legend whispers that his spirit roams the corridors and grounds of Balmoral Castle, clad in his traditional kilt. Royal family members have spoken of seeing him or unmistakably sensing his presence. Queen Victoria herself is said to have encountered his ghost after his death, and Queen Elizabeth II allegedly glimpsed John Brown in the corridors or felt his watchful presence on several occasions. Far from malevolent, he is regarded as a benign and protective spirit—his loyalty in life echoing on in death.

In addition to John Brown, a mysterious Grey Lady has also been reported wandering the castle corridors and rooms, possibly a former servant or member of the royal household.