Balmoral is the royal families summer house, located about an hour away from Ardoe House. Jen would like to go there on Friday if there is time. It is open to the public until the family come in August. In 2019 the grounds, gardens, exhibitions, gift shop and cafe will be open to the Public on a daily basis from Monday 1st April until Wednesday 31st July. Opening times are from 10.00 a.m. until 5.00 p.m. However please note that the last recommended admission is at 4.30 p.m. Pre planned tour can be purchased on Expedia but there will also be people with cars driving there, including me. https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g186487-d11476189-Full_Day_Balmoral_Castle_Tour_from_Aberdeen-Aberdeen_Aberdeenshire_Scotland.html
The Blair Course is 4 miles from the hotel and only 35 GBP for a round, perhaps the smaller of the two because Haughton Course is 100 GBP This can be booked online ahead of time and this is advised. This one is very close to the hotel and Thursday night dinner spot.