Balmoral Arms - Ballater

Had a lunch here. Meal was very average. No vegan options apart from sandwiches available and it was a very low effort vegan option. They even added cheese and onion crisps which definitely aren't vegan. My partner is not a strict vegan so it wasn't an issue but they should've known better. I had the game pie which was pretty nice but the venison was quite dry. It was cosy and the waitress with the American accent was really lovely. People on reception were not so welcoming and didn't help us.

Amazing bar lunch. One of the best fish and chips I have experienced in a pub. Chef takes the time to come out and deliver the food. Nice friendly chap. Would defo recommend this for pub food. Great taste large portions. Looking forward to our next visit in a weeks time. Thanks again. Service: 4 Location: 4

Additionally, their bookkeeping was chaotic. They double charged me for my stay: first, they charged the full amount of the room to the VISA I used to make the reservation, and then they also charged the full amount plus meals and incidentals to the AMEX I provided upon check-in. When we checked out, we pointed out the error, and they assured us it was fixed and provided us with a corrected receipt. However, they never reversed the charge on the credit card. When I reached out a month later after noticing both charges on my statements, they weren’t very eager or prompt in assisting me. Overall, it’s a nice place, but be cautious with your charges. **Response:** I provided the necessary information about the overbilling at checkout. Your staff confirmed they received my email before I left and assured me the issue was resolved. Unfortunately, that was not the case, and now you can’t even locate the email I sent. I’ve resend the information, along with a detailed letter and proof of the two credit card charges. The double billing should never have occurred, and when it did, it should have been addressed properly at that time. I shouldn’t have to spend my time twice to rectify this clear mistake, and your staff shouldn't treat me as if I’m trying to cheat you. A sincere apology for the oversight and the inadequate resolution would be appropriate.

On a positive note, the hotel's ambiance is lovely, with a warm atmosphere and friendly, chatty staff at the reception. However, the rooms felt a bit small for the price, and while the beds were comfortable enough, they weren't the best either. Overall, we had an enjoyable stay, but we were disappointed with the value, particularly regarding the food and service. Regarding the rooms, they are a bit snug for what you pay, but they do have a cozy feel. Just a heads up that the heaters are quite effective, sometimes making the space a bit too warm. As for the food and drinks, the service was lacking, and there were significant delays, even during less busy times – likely due to insufficient staff. The quality of the food was acceptable when it finally arrived. Noteworthy mentions include a nice surprise of a tray with some goodies like tea cakes and caramel wafers, and the excellent cafetière coffee available in the comfort of your own room, which was a lovely touch.

The staff at Balmoral Arms went above and beyond our highest expectations. My now husband and I are from Canada and were supposed to get married on October 20th at an outdoor location nearby. Since storm Babet had interrupted these plans, our nuptials were almost halted until our officient and Balmoral Arms saved the day. The manager Joanna and assistant Chris helped plan the ceremony and celebration afterwards. They decorated the fireplace room and turned it into a beautiful space for our ceremony, and the dining room afterwards for a celebratory meal. The location is beautiful and the staff/service is impeccable. They have truly touched our hearts and we will make it a tradition to come back whenever we can. Thank you so much from the bottom of our hearts for making our day the best day. We would not change a thing. Cameron Stephanie McCulloch