It caused many to think the grounds could play host to weddings for members of the public, but the Royal estate has confirmed that is not the case, according to reports in UK media.
The Independent reports a spokesperson for the estate said: “There are no plans for Balmoral to host weddings as a commercial venture.”
That’s despite weddings being mentioned in an application lodged to Aberdeenshire Council to renovate the Queen’s Building, located on the grounds a short distance from the main castle.
Permission has been sought to renovate the building, which “may be used for weddings, dinners, meetings and other associated events”. The plans said these would be “rare throughout the year” and noise would be kept to a “low level”.
The application was for the building to host up to 277 guests, feature live performances and serve alcohol until half past midnight.
The building is currently used for visitors and as an event space for staff. The estate has reportedly had an appropriate licence in place for more than 15 years to host functions and events, both private and public.
Balmoral has been the Royal Family’s Scottish holiday home since the 19th Century. It was bought for Queen Victoria by Prince Albert in 1852.
