Tourist Information

Elgin has lots of exciting and interesting attractions for any visitor. Just take a look at the information below to find out more...

Elgin Cathedral
Elgin Cathedral, known as the 'Lantern of the North', was established in 1224 by Alexander II as the seat of the Bishopric of Moray.

It is second in size in Scotland only to St Andrews Cathedral. Much of the work is in a rich late 13th century style. It is the superb ruin of what many think was Scotland's most beautiful cathedral. The transepts west towers and parts of the choir and nave survived a fire in 1270. Then after extensive rebuilding the cathedral survived until 1390 when it was burnt, again rebuilt during the 15th century.

The cathedral was vandalised during the reformation, and eventually fell into ruin. The towers at the entrance to the main chapel are still intact, there are several effigies on the tombs.

There is also a Pict stone which is allocated at the centre of the cathedral. There are several symbols inside the walls of the cathedral and there is a great view of the town from the North Tower.

Elgin Museum
The museum was founded in 1836, it is independent and is managed by the Moray Society.

The Museum houses many important collections of Natural History, Geology, Archaeology, Science, Art, Ethnography and Social History.

It is best known for pictish stones and unique local fossils. You can learn about the story of Moray, the early farmers who changed the Moray landscape 6,000 years ago, and the Picts who left their strange symbols carved in stone. The exhibitions try to show much of the museums treasures by holding activities, workshops, conferences and courses.

Pluscarden Abbey
Pluscarden Abbey is six miles from Elgin town centre, it is one of Scotland's most unusual attractions.

It was founded in 1230 by Alexander II for Valliscaulian monks. It was in the thirteenth century that the monks first came to Pluscarden Abbey.

It is the only medieval monastery in Britain still inhabited by Monks and being used for its original purpose. It is situated in a sheltered, south facing glen against a background of forested hillside, this adds to the beauty of its architecture and the restful atmosphere.

Moray Leisure Centre
Moray Leisure Centre, opened in 1993 and was one of the first Leisure Trusts in Scotland. The composition of the Board of Directors, four prominent members of the community and three local councillors, aligns well with current thinking regarding community involvement.

The Centre, consisting of an Ice Rink, Leisure and Training Pools, Relaxation Suite, Health & Wellness Suite, Child Care Facilities, Pre-School Nursery and Cafe Bar, promotes as its theme throughout " A new concept in health". This is readily reflected in the Health & Wellness Programme, which includes a GP Referral Scheme and Cardiac Rehabilitation Programme.

As well as actively promoting community health the Centre provides a varied programme of classes, events and activities for a broad spectrum of ages and abilities. This results in the Leisure Centre being among the highest in the UK for visits per head of population. As should be expected, visitors to the Centre can be assured of a friendly and courteous welcome as demonstrated by our 4 star Leisure Centre award from the Scottish Tourist Board.
Visit the Website

Motor Museum
The Moray Motor Museum is an independent museum situated in Elgin in converted mill buildings at Bridge Street.

Pay a visit and take a trip into yesteryear with the car that you used to dream of, or the one that Uncle had. Come along and share in the Moray Motoring Heritage.

The Johnstons Cashmere Visitor Centre
JohnstonsCashmere specialises in providing luxury retailers worldwide with the finest Cashmere knitwear, accessories, homeware and woven piece goods.

In effect they offer a complete cashmere lifestyle, designed with international trends in styling and colour very much in mind, and manufactured in Scotland to the highest standards of quality.
Visit the Website

If you need more information on Elgin, then please pick up a Visitors Guide from the local Tourist Visitor Centre or Download a PDF version here.

You will find lots of things to do plus plenty of contact information.

If you need directions to reach Elgin, click here, or if you are more interested in finding things to do then click here.

For all you Shopaholics visit our Elgin Directory section and search for local businesses and places to eat and drink.