Activities in Elgin

The impressive ruins of Elgin Cathedral overlook the River Lossie and stand as a unique and dramatic attraction for anyone visiting Elgin. This former Holy Trinity cathedral dates back to the 13th century and despite not one, not two, but three fires blighting its long history, much of its outer walls – including two towers and a beautiful vaulted archway – survive in excellent condition today.

It’s a great day out for photographers and artists, and keen gardeners can pay a visit to the neighbouring Biblical Garden, which is especially stunning when the sun’s shining. If you have a head for heights, make sure you make your way up the tower’s spiral staircase to the viewing platform for some stunning vistas.

Take a tour of the historic Glen Moray Distillery, which has been making its sublime single malt for more than 120 years and currently bottles more than 5 million litres of whisky a year. The tour offers a fascinating insight into how Glen Moray makes its whisky. Plus, you can enjoy some tasty samples along the way. Do what you can to try one of the sherry-cask varieties, which have heaps of awards to their name.

History fans won’t want to miss a visit to Duffus Castle. It’s one of Scotland’s finest motte and bailey castles and dates all the way back to the 12th century. When it was built, it was one of the meanest, mightiest fortifications in Scotland. So it should come as no surprise that it survives in good condition today. It’s free to visit, you can enjoy excellent views of the countryside and there are informative display boards dotted around to help you learn about the castle’s history.

Classic car enthusiasts will love a trip to the Moray Motor Museum on Bridge Street. This emporium of vintage-era automobiles is housed in a historic grain mill and contains everything from original Daimlers to quirky BMW Isettas and classic Jaguar E-Types. Entrance is relatively cheap considering the extensive collection on show. The exhibitions are informative and interesting, and the staff are incredibly knowledgeable if you have any questions.

You can trace Elgin’s history back to prehistoric times with a trip to the Elgin Museum on High Street. It’s Scotland’s oldest independent museum and has an excellent collection of artefacts and exhibits, which help to bring the region’s rich history to life. The Pictish stones are among the top attractions, while the shrunken heads and ancient mummies aren’t for the faint-hearted.

Last of all, if you fancy some sand, make your way to Hopeman East Beach, just off the coast of the nearby village of Hopeman. It’s a picturesque stretch of sand with colourful beach huts and grassy headlands. If you’re feeling brave, feel free to take a dip in the Moray Firth; it’ll be mighty cold, though.