The Auld Kirk

Breakfast was delicious and a beautiful presentation. The overall experience was fantastic. We will definitely stay there again on our future vacations.

Nothing to report.

Kev and Helen are the absolute best hosts, and Auld Kirk is one of the most interesting, comfortable, and delightful B&Bs where we have ever stayed. It’s historic, beautifully restored, and very true to Highland hospitality in every respect. Fantastic breakfasts and great bedrooms with very modern bathrooms. Easy free parking on street. 5 minute walk to town and lots of choices in inviting restaurants. Other interesting guests rounded out the perfect experience in this charming small town, just a couple miles from Balmoral and the Lochnager distillery.

Kevin and Helen were so welcoming and provided every little thing we might have wanted, included bottles of still and sparkling water and two glasses of whisky in the room. Breakfast was a gorgeous and extremely bountiful spread.

Everything! Simply the best! Helen and Kevin are a beautiful couple who love what they do. They care about their guests and you can feel it since the chat we had when we met! The rooms were wonderful, with a lot of little details which makes the difference between a hotel and a B&B like this! In the room there were homemade shortbreads and a taste of local whiskey (delicious!) for my husband and me and orange juice for our teenagers. What should we say about the breakfast? No words enough to say how good it was...we will be in Scotland for others 10 day...it would be difficult to beat it! Helen is a great cook! A plus is the waiter: she is very smiley and kind! Thanks Helen and Kevin, everything has been perfect!

Absolutely nothing!

The friendliness and welcome of the owners was really exceptional. The extra pastries provided at breakfast were so tasty. The location of the property is great, so close to the village centre and easy to find. Parking is on the street but there is lots of room and no restrictions.

Loved the building and the location was perfect

The shower ran hot and cold the whole time and the shower tray was very flimsy but that’s me just being picky.

Excellent property in a fabulous location. Room excellent, and well equipped, very comfortable. Breakfast out of this world. The best bit however is the staff. Great welcome from Kevin and Helen, and also excellent advice regarding where to go and what to do. They could not do enough for their guests. Also Lisa was excellent as well.

Nothing.

Beautiful church and the rooms were decorated very plush. Updated bathroom. Lovely espresso machine in the room. Nicest people!!! Throughly enjoyed talking to Kev.

It was PERFECT! No complaints. Don’t hesitate to book here. Best stay.

Perfect in every way

Nothing to dislike

The breakfast was superb .. and Lisa was just fab, nothing too much trouble always a smile and a chat ! Helen and Kevin are extremely welcoming and they have got such a lovely bed and breakfast … one of the nicest I have stayed in. We will hopefully be back !!

Cool old church converted to b&b, excellent breakfast, hosts were wonderful

Good choice on offer

Shower room was a bit cramped and lacked shelf space.

This hotel was the best. Very unique, staff so friendly, great location. Very clean & comfortable. Breakfast was lovely. Nothing bad to say. Wish we had a longer stay.

Nothing at all

In glorious Ballater with fabulous host.Breakfast was delicious with an amazing choice.Beautiful bedroom with a lovely view - thank you

Nothing everything was excellent

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Absolutely Perfect — Felt Like Home! We had an unforgettable stay at this beautiful B&B in Ballater! Set inside a stunning Victorian Scottish church from 1860, the property is full of charm and character. Helen and Kevin are incredible hosts — from the moment we arrived, we were welcomed like family. Their warmth and hospitality made us feel instantly at home. Our room was spotless, cozy, and the bed was one of the most comfortable we’ve slept in during our entire trip. The B&B’s location couldn’t be better — right in the heart of Ballater, within easy walking distance to shops, restaurants, and the gorgeous surrounding scenery. Our morning started with a delicious breakfast, served with smiles by Lisa, Helen, and Kevin. Everything was fresh and tasty, but Helen’s homemade scones were absolutely divine — a true highlight! It’s easy to see why they won Best B&B of 2024 — they truly go above and beyond. We left with full hearts (and full stomachs!) and can’t wait for the chance to return. Highly, highly recommend!

The breakfast is the best you will ever get, I’m talking 5 star hotel standard, cakes and scones cooked fresh that morning, fruit, etc, cooked breakfast to order from local produce. Everything served quickly and as you requested. Plus a bowl of strawberries on the table, that won the wife over. The couple who own and run this establishment along with its staff are about the nicest people you could wish to meet, the place is quirky, spotlessly clean, near to all amenities and without doubt the best b and b accommodation I’ve ever stayed in. ( that also includes beating most of the 5 star hotels I’ve stayed in around the world) Your biggest issue is finding your next accommodation anyway near this to this high level. I’m not sure you will.

Really central location, close to restaurants and walking areas as well as within easy reach of other tourist attractions. Fantastic breakfasts, staff and owners.

All wonderful, lovely stay and breakfast was perfect

A beautiful church that has been thoughtfully transformed into a boutique hotel, run by a welcoming hosts. We were given a lot of information when we arrived, including tips to avoid crowds at Balmoral (arrive before 11am), and when we went to the room there were a couple of whiskies waiting for us, along with my name on a welcome screen on the TV - both were a nice touch! The bed was super comfy, the room warm and cozy with plenty of space and storage. Breakfast was personalised and plentiful, home cooked to order and was the best breakfast that I had during our month away! We had been told by the hosts that restaurants need to be booked in advance to avoid disappointment. We hadn't booked anywhere, but grabbed a pub meal, and had a couple of drinks in another bar afterwards.

We only had 1 night in Ballater so found the 4pm check in time and early shop closing times meant that we didn't have time to explore the little town. We arrived at 4.30pm but then had a 40 min briefing chat from the owner, so it was late by the time we got out to look for dinner and then we set off at 10am, straight after breakfast. The host advised 4pm check in time is quite usual in that area so next time, I would arrive earlier and explore before check in.

One of the best and absolutely the most unique b&b I’ve ever stayed at. Owners were incredibly friendly and helpful. If you ever travel to this part of Scotland, I highly recommend this b&b.

Nothing to report.

Most comfortable bed of our trip and best breakfast (excellent haggis!), so it has been the best B&B!

Lovely conversion of a kirk (church) retaining many original features. Carpeted floors mean very little noise. Really convenient for shops, restaurants and walks around Ballater. Kevin was very helpful in advising where to go to catch sight of deer, places to visit and where to eat. Room was light with storage and good bathroom with heated towel rail and strong shower. Our room was average size, prefer a larger room. Breakfasts were great. Lots of choice; we had porridge daily and Helen's delicious scones. Cooked breakfasts were excellent and eggs cooked to perfection.

Only the proliferation of diffusers or room fresheners!

For me the most extraordinary room I ever stayed in PLUS the most friendliest people welcoming you in their -for sure- outstanding B&B. Gorgeous Breakfast, lovely owners, Thanx Helen&Kev

Kevin and Helen clearly love what they do and it shows in their hospitality. Obviously it is a very unique B&B but it lives up to its reputation with all the little extras and time the hosts put into it. Our room was very comfortable and the bed was perfect. The breakfast is delicious and all homemade, But, the afternoon tea was the highlight for my wife (I enjoyed it very much also). We wanted to book a tea and are very happy we booked it here. Helen is quite the baker and puts on a spread to rival the best in London (although her pastries are better). The Auld Kirk is a pretty little gem within walking distance of Ballater and a quiet place to relax. Kevin and Helen are very personable and we enjoyed getting to know them a little.

Nothing

Excellent location, friendly staff and great breakfast.

The church building was very unique. Our host was fantastic and we really enjoyed their company. We were treated so well and spoiled us with their delicious breakfast. They went over and beyond to make sure we were well taken care of.

Nothing

Amazing building made comfortable by very attentive hosts Nice touches such as the dreaming whisky. Doggy bag from breakfast and very warm greeting

Would have liked proper tea making facilities in the room but the coffee was great

Beautiful B&B close to Balmoral Castle, nice rooms and common areas, great breakfast and suggestions for dinner! Two drams of whiskey in our room on arrival was a nice touch! Totally recommend!

The enthusiasm of the hosts Helen and husband.

Nothing

Quirky, updated bathrooms, staff were lovely folks

Hall was a little musty

What a unique and beautiful property! Great for a stay to explore the Cairngorms and Balmoral. The couple who owns the property are just lovely and welcome you like family. The breakfast was exceptional!

Rooms are a bit stuffy - but it is an old church!