It is best known for its association with the royal inhabitants of the castle, particularly for their patronage of Crathie Kirk, the parish church.

The hills to the south contain a number of memorial cairns, commemorating Prince Albert and some of his children.

The Royal Lochnagar distillery stands on the southern bank of the Dee east of the village.

The only producer of a Deeside single malt, it is fed by natural springs rising on the slopes of Lochnagar, a neighbouring Munro.

In local government Ballater and Crathie share a combined Community council of 12 members.