Library and cafe services at iconic Ballater Station unaffected by change in occupancy

Ballater Station will continue to provide library and cafe services despite changes in occupancy of the popular attraction.

VisitScotland will close their tourist information office today (Fri, Oct 3), though visitors wishing to access their services and gain information can do so through their website https://www.visitscotland.com/ 

Library service will continue to open at the following times:

• Tuesday 10am-3pm
• Wednesday 10am-3pm
• Thursday 12noon-5pm

Staff are also working on proposals to enable users to access the library to browse books when no staff are present.

The Rothesay Rooms – incorporating the Royal Deeside Café – will also remain open, with opening hours being Wednesday to Sunday (10-4pm).

Aberdeenshire Council, as owner of the building, will be working with the library, café and other stakeholders over the winter period to look at both maintaining the strong footfall in the station and also looking to identify other potential tenants.

Ballater Station underwent an incredible £4.2 million reconstruction and restoration project after it was destroyed by fire in May 2015.

The ambitious and complex reconstruction programme – described as a real “jewel in the crown” – won the coveted South Eastern Commercial Restoration Award from Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal in 2019, with judges praising the council's determination to see the works completed to the very highest level.

The station continues to be served by a thriving café/restaurant operated by Baxter Storey, with visitors able to view a range of storyboards detailing the link between the royal family and the building as well as a replica of a Victorian royal carriage which provides an enhancement to the visitor experience.