John Brown and Queen Victoria at Balmoral
Following Albert's death in 1861, the queen found solace in the companionship of the ghillie John Brown. First mentioned in the her journal in 1849, he had begun his royal employment as a stablehand, was appointed the 'Queen's Highland Servant' in 1865 and rose to be the most influential member of the royal household.
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Following Albert's death in 1861, the queen found solace in the companionship of the ghillie John Brown. First mentioned in the her journal in 1849, he had begun his royal employment as a stablehand, was appointed the 'Queen's Highland Servant' in 1865 and rose to be the most influential member of the royal household.
While Victoria could be brusque and petulant with her servants, family and ministers, she submitted to Brown's affectionate bullying and familiarity without a murmur. Despite warnings of his unpopularity with her subjects, she was adamant that Brown would not be sacked. Her confidence was rewarded when Brown saved her from an assassination attempt, after which he was acclaimed a hero.
Where to go?
Balmoral Castle
Ballater
Aberdeenshire
AB35 5TB
Tel: (013397) 42534
Website: www.balmoralcastle.com
Balmoral Castle
Ballater
Aberdeenshire
AB35 5TB
Tel: (013397) 42534
Website: www.balmoralcastle.com
What to see?
After they had rented it for some years as a summer retreat, Balmoral estate, which now extends over 50,000 acres, was bought in 1852 by Albert and Victoria, who called it her 'dear paradise in the Highlands.' The present mock Scottish Gothic castle is Albert's creation (in association with Aberdeen architect William Smith). You can visit the grounds and the ballroom between April and July.
After they had rented it for some years as a summer retreat, Balmoral estate, which now extends over 50,000 acres, was bought in 1852 by Albert and Victoria, who called it her 'dear paradise in the Highlands.' The present mock Scottish Gothic castle is Albert's creation (in association with Aberdeen architect William Smith). You can visit the grounds and the ballroom between April and July.
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