Crathie church was not opened to the public when we visited. Walked up to take pics when this very kind gentleman opened it for me to go inside. What a beautiful church so peaceful and calm frlt honoured to be in there where our late Queen and her family worshipped

I knew this was where the Queen used to worship when she came to Balmoral so wanted to stop for a look as we were passing. As its a Church of Scotland church I had expected to be able to see inside but this is not allowed for 'security' reasons. Its beautiful outside though so worth taking a look. The lady in the gift shop was friendly and helpful - sorry I didn't get her name. I bought a lovely bagpipe brooch for my bag but I did not pay the £5 which is what it was supposed to be for parking as we were not visiting Balmoral Castle or Grounds

This is the famed granite church that the royal family worship at when they’re in residence at nearby Balmoral Castle. As you can see it’s not a grand affair, but a charmingly modest Gothic Revival style cruciform church, built in 1895 by Elgin architect A Marshall Mackenzie. It’s set in a leafy elevated position , with picturesque views over the lovely Deeside landscape. Queen Victoria laid the foundation stone for it 2 years earlier, and also donated 2 of the stained glass windows. Her personal attendant, John Smith, is buried in the nearby graveyard. Unfortunately , it was closed when we visited, but enjoyed a wander in the tranquil surroundings. If you’re planning on visiting Balmoral Castle too, then you’re as well to park in their ticketed carpark across the road . However, we found a spot further along the road and just walked from there to the Kirk.