Station Restaurant, The

Ballater Station was the end of the line for the Royal Deeside Railway line. The trains have long since gone, but the station remains and the building has been restored so that it looks as if a train should come puffing in at any time and Victoria’s coach pull up outside. It now, however, accommodates a restaurant and visitor centre.

The restaurant is in the former waiting room. It still has the dark wood panelling, a high ceiling with glass dome, black and white chequerboard floors and large windows at the front and rear. The feeling of time standing still is furthered by the old marble fireplace, marble topped tables and parlour palms. Even the walls make their contribution, carrying photos of local scenes from days gone by.

It is more of a restaurant than a coffee shop, as its name implies, but you can still sit back in Lloyd loom chairs, enjoy your coffee and scone, carrot cake or millionaire shortbread and read the newspapers provided: or, just imagine yourself in a more gracious and leisurely era.

Alternatively you could tuck into one of the various breakfasts, including porridge with honey and double cream, which is served until11.30. Later you could indulge in fish, beefburgers, soup, sandwiches, croque monsieur, panini and puddings and much more, all freshly prepared.

An experience.

Why should I go there? Find yourself in a Victorian time warp.

Any negatives?  On a recent visit I found that there is now a charge to see the exhibition area.

Before or After: 
The visitor centre has an exhibition recreating Queen Victoria arriving at the station with her daughter and dog (not the best trained it would appear!). Her waiting room and toilet is also on show – rather better than the public ones would have been!


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