'I worked for the Royal Family at Balmoral - one surprising thing happened every summer'

The Scottish Highlands estate felt like 'coming home'.12:00, 17 Aug 2026A former head gardener for the Royal Family has shared some insight into how the Firm spends their time at Balmoral Castle. Describing the large Aberdeenshire estate as "home", Jack Stooks highlighted one surprising aspect to the Scottish castle that many wouldn't expect.‌Stooks was formerly King Charles III head gardener and travelled to Ballater on many occasions with the Royal Family. Being able to explore the Scottish sanctuary, he was able to see first-hand why Balmoral holds a special place in the King's heart.‌With many members of the family travelling to Balmoral each year, Stooks says that the estate is so much more than another royal residence to them, it is their "Scottish home". And this is something that m