The Braemar Highland Gathering should be on every Scotland enthusiast’s bucket list.
In my Braemar Highland Gathering guide I’m sharing my experience at the games, and my best tips for planning your trip!
What is the Braemar Highland Gathering, and why is it famous?
The Braemar Highland Gathering is arguably Scotland’s most famous Highland Games.
It takes place during the first weekend of September, and is attended by members of the Royal Family every year. Queen Elizabeth II would attend every year, missing just two of the games in total- including the last one during her reign where she sadly died one week later in her Scottish home at Balmoral Castle.
My Top Tips For Attending the Braemar Highland Games
1. If you want to see the royals, section D is one of the best places to sit, as this section looks directly onto the pavilion where the Royal Family sit.
2. Bring your binoculars if you want to catch a better glimpse at some of the activities on the other side of the ring (and the Royal Family).
3. Bring your own hand sanitiser and a few tissues of toilet paper in case the toilets run out- which happened to me!
4. Go for a wander into the village of Braemar- one of the most beautiful villages in Scotland!
5. Be sure to make time to explore Royal Deeside and Aberdeenshire- both are incredible regions in their own right.
6. Prices are increased during the weekend of the Gathering- if you want to stay in Braemar but you’re not interested in the Gathering, avoid booking at this time.
7. Tickets go on sale for the Braemar Highland Games in November. Book your tickets in advance!