OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
1. Outf!t Moray
Adventure Activities - Environmental Education - Journeys & Expeditions - Outdoor Learning
We work in close partnership with schools, youth agencies and youth groups to develop the potential of young people in the local area.
We offer a wide range of activities and courses to the general public, these could be for a birthday party, group of friends or family.
We run a fantastic volunteer programme that enables adults to gain valuable experience, training and qualifications in return for helping Outfit Moray to work with groups of young people.
We are Licensed by AALA (Adventurous Activity Licensing Authority) and all staff hold NGB (National Governing Body Qualifications) where appropriate.
All technical equipment is provided. We hire Mountain bikes, Canoes, Kayaks, Wetsuits.
We sell high quality used outdoor equipment: Mountain bikes, Wetsuits, Buoyancy aids and occasionally canoes and kayaks.
15 Shore Street,
Lossiemouth
IV31 6PB
Tel: 01343 549571
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.outfitmoray.com
2. Speyside Way
3. Gordon Castle Estate
4. Troup Head RSPB Reserve
5. Dolphin Watching Moray Firth
6. Clay pigeon shooting
7. Banffshire Coast
8. Huntly Falconry Centre
9. Culbin Forest Walks
10. Moray Monster Trails
11. Glenlivet Crown Estate
12. Scotpeak
13.Quarrelwood Walks
14. House of Mulben
15. Glen of Rothes Fishery
16. East Grange
17. Loch of Strathbeg
GOLF
18. Covesea Links
The 9 hole course sits at the end of its own windy road, nestled in a cove right on the coast between Lossiemouth and Hopeman.
The course follows the contours of the cove, offering stunning views of the coast along the way.
The aim of the course is to provide pay and play golf in beautiful Moray that is playable for beginners but a challenge for the experienced.
Simply turn up and play.
9 Holes: Links golf for everyone, and perfect for an outing or just for a quick round with clubs available for hire.
Hopeman Road,
Duffus,
Moray,
IV30 5QS
Tel: 01343 810012
Email: [email protected]
19. Moray Golf Club
Where else could you follow in the footsteps of Old Tom Morris and Henry Cotton in the same day?
The old course is considered to be one of the finest links courses in Scotland. A classic links designed by Old Tom Morris with deep revetted bunkers,
undulating gorse lined fairways and smooth fast greens. It is a superb test of golf with seven par fours over 400 yards.
Henry Cotton's preference for precision golf can be seen with the shorter but somewhat tighter new course with greens smaller than the Old but every bit as good,
and equally challenging and rewarding.
Moray Golf Club is truly one of Scotland's gems, a fitting tribute to the artistry of Old Tom Morris and Henry Cotton and a must for golfers visiting the area.
The club welcomes applications for membership.
Stotfield Road,
Lossiemouth
IV31 6QS
Tel: 01343 812018
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.moraygolf.co.uk
20. Golf Dedication Centre
Situated within one of the most picturesque settings in Scotland, the Golf Dedication Centre has prime position adjacent to the Lighthouse and has superb views over the town and the Moray Firth.
Our 12 bay driving range looks towards the light house, is covered and has the latest electric pop up tees.
There is a 3 par 9 hole pitching put for family fun and a PGA professional can be booked on site for lessons.
The Golf Dedication Centre has the best stocked golf shop in Moray. Major brands of golf & club equipment include:
Cobra, Wilson & Mizuno with authorised custom fit for all major brands.
A wide variety of clothing labels include Sunderland, Glenmuir & PGA Collection.
Our staff will be pleased to advise you on which equipment would best suit you, and we have a full range of trial clubs to ensure you make the right choice.
Covesea,
Lossiemouth
IV31 6SP
Tel: 01343 810061
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.golfdedicationcentre.co.uk
WHISKY
Lossiemouth is the ideal base for exploring the North East of Scotland, with it's miles of sandy beaches, watersports, wildlife and walking, not to mention the world renowned Malt Whisky Trail. With over 50 distilleries within easy reach, Lossiemouth is a perfect starting point. Below is just a selection of distilleries with visitor facilities:-
21. Glen Moray
A warm welcome awaits you at Glen Moray Distillery in Elgin.
Glen Moray has been distilled on the banks of the River Lossie since 1897 by a small dedicated team of craftsmen.
22. Benromach
Speyside’s smallest distillery is located on the outskirts of the ancient market town of Forres.
On your visit, you can see the mash tun, and the burnished copper stills, and witness our experienced distillers create the unique qualities of Benromach Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
23. Glenrothes
The Glenrothes is an award winning Speyside Single Malt of exceptional quality.
A combination of many factors including our unusually slow distillation process in tall copper pot stills deliver our characteristic sweet, fruity and elegant spirit. The distillery lies at the foot of the Mannoch Hills beside the Rothes Burn.
24. Aberlour
Situated at the junction of the Rivers Lour and Spey, the distillery lies in a beautiful glen, surrounded by glorious scenery dominated by the rugged peaks of Ben Rinnes.
Pure spring water for making the whisky is drawn from the River Lour, and the maturing spirit in the warehouse beneficially inhales the moist Speyside air.
25. Balvenie
The Balvenie tour takes around three hours, including a nosing and tasting. It visits parts of a distillery not normally seen by the public, including our cooperage and working floor maltings. We start things off with a coffee and a chat and always end with a dram or two.
26. Glenfiddich
Set in the heart of the Highlands, Glenfiddich (meaning ‘Valley of the Deer’ in Gaelic) is a place of breathtaking beauty.
Glenfiddich is little changed since 1886, when William Grant and his nine children rolled up their sleeves to build the Distillery with their bare hands.
27. Strathisla
Welcome to the oldest operating distillery in the Highlands.
There is no better place to experience the age-old craft of whisky making at first hand. Dating from 1786, much of the buildings have changed little, from the old cobbled courtyard to the distinctive double pagodas, making it one of the most picturesque distilleries in Scotland.
28. Glenlivet
The Glenlivet Distillery, near Ballindalloch is the oldest legal distillery in the parish of Glenlivet, and the production place of the Scottish whisky of the same name. It is described in packaging and advertising as "The single malt that started it all". It was founded in 1824 and it has operateD almost contiinuously since
Castles
In Scotland you are never far from a castle and Moray is no exception.
Below is a brief list of castles within easy reach of Lossiemouth and is by no means exhaustive.
29. Findlater Castle
On the coast between Cullen and Sandend are the ruins of Findlater Castle, perched precariously on an outcrop of rock.
There has been some form of fortification on the site since at least the 13th century, but the remaining buildings probably date from the late 14th century when the castle was owned by the Sinclairs, or possibly from the mid 15th century when it passed to the Ogilvies.
30. Duffus Castle
The castle was built in the mid 12th century by Freskin, Lord of Strathbrock, a Flemish knight, whose descendants took the title ‘de Moravia’ (of Moray). Freskin was given the land at Duffus by King David I, and by 1151 the castle was complete enough to accommodate the King while he supervised the construction of nearby Kinloss Abbey and was among the foremost defensible strongholds in Scotland.
31. Balvenie Castle
For over 500 years, Balvenie Castle served as the formidable stronghold of the great lords who ruled over this part of north-east Scotland.
The immensely powerful ‘Black’ Comyn earls of Buchan built it in the 13th century. Forfeited in the early 14th century, the stronghold passed to the mighty ‘Black’ Douglases and when they too were wiped out around 1455 by James II, the victorious Stewart king entrusted it to a kinsman, John Stewart, Earl of Atholl. It remained with his descendants for the next 250 years
32. Huntly Castle
The earls of Fife built the original stronghold, the Peel of Strathbogie, around 1190, to guard the crossing-point where the rivers Bogie and Deveron meet. The Fifes of Strathbogie lost their lands and titles in 1314, after taking the wrong side at the Battle of Bannockburn. The victorious King Robert Bruce granted Strathbogie to a loyal supporter, Sir Adam Gordon of Huntly. Around 1445, Alexander, 2nd Lord Gordon, was created Earl of Huntly. He changed the name of his residence from Strathbogie to Huntly.
33. Drumin Castle
King Robert II granted the lands of Strathavon (including Drumin) to his son Alexander Stewart (The Wolf of Badenoch) on the 17th July 1372. He descended upon Moray at the head of a large number of "wild, wykked Hieland-men." who sacked the town of Forres, before heading east, destroying Pluscarden Abbey en route to Elgin. They then sacked and burnt most of the town of Elgin including, the 'Lantern of the North', Elgin Cathedral to the ground in 1390.
34. Fyvie Castle
Fyvie Castle is one of Scotland’s great baronial fortress palaces. Fyvie dates back to the 13th century when it was a royal stronghold.
Both William the Lyon and Alexander II held court here, and Edward I of England and Robert the Bruce were both visitors. From 1390, five successive families owned Fyvie, each contributing to the development of the castle. An old tradition claims that these families – Preston, Meldrum, Seton, Gordon and Leith – each built one of Fyvie’s five towers.
35. Brodie Castle
The castle was the home of the Brodie family until the late 20th century. The family’s association with the area goes back further than the building of the castle, possibly as far as 1160 when it is believed Malcom IV gave these lands to the Brodies.
Brodie has unusual plaster ceilings, a major art collection and tells the fascinating story of the Brodie family.
There is a woodland walk with a large pond and a nature trail with access to wildlife observation hides.
In springtime the grounds are carpeted with many varieties of daffodils for which Brodie Castle is rightly famous.
36. Ballindalloch Castle
One of the few privately owned castles to have been lived in continuously by its original family. The Macpherson-Grants have resided here since 1546. Known as the Pearl of the North, it is located in the heart of Speyside, near to the famed local whisky distilleries of Cragganmore, Glenlivet, Glenfarclas and Glenfiddich.
Surrounded by majestic hills, and with the tumbling waters of the Rivers Spey and Avon flowing through the grounds, the setting is truly magnificent.
Archaeology & History
The North East of Scotland has a rich and varied past, here you can find links to archaeological sites of interest and other resources. Click the title to open the web site.
37. Lossiefowk
A web site dedicated to Lossiefowk all over the world
38. History of NE Scotland
Aberdeenshire Council's Brief History of the North East of Scotland
39. Local Heritage Services
The Local Heritage Centre in Elgin, holds a comprehensive range of unique materials about Moray’s rich past.
40. Stone Circles
Explore Prehistoric Standing and Recumbent Stone Circles of North East Scotland.
41. Standing Stones
Visit impressive Prehistoric standing stones surviving in striking locations.
42. Round Burial Cairns
Discover Neolithic and Bronze Age burials of important community members.
43. Clava Cairns
Visit special Bronze Age burial cairns that have a stone circle surrounding a tomb.
44. Henges
Learn about these ceremonial enclosures from the late Neolithic.
45. Pictish Symbol Stones
View Early Medieval carved stones with intricate designs and symbols.
46. Long Cairns & Barrows
Learn about the burials of the first farmers during the Neolithic.
47. Hill Forts & Castles
Explore Prehistoric hill and coastal forts, Pictish strongholds and Medieval castles.
48. Souterraines
Visit these underground structures from the Iron Age.
Other Sites of Interest
There are many other sites to visit in our fascinating corner of Scotland, Bishops Palaces, Elgin Cathedral, Museums and many other sites of interest. Below is just a breif selection. Click to open the web site, all links open in a new window.
The Lossiemouth Fisheries and Community Museum
Housed in a former net mending loft situated in Pitgaveny Quay, Lossiemouth. The museum gives an insight into the Scottish fishing industry past and present. It also contains a reconstruction of James Ramsey MacDonald's study from his Lossiemouth house. Ramsey MacDonald was born in Lossiemouth and became the first Labour Prime Minister.
49. Spynie Palace
Spynie Palace was for five centuries the residence of the bishops of Moray. During that time, the palace stood on the edge of Spynie Loch, a sea-loch giving safe anchorage for fishing boats and merchant vessels.
50. Elgin Cathedral
One of Scotland’s most beautiful medieval buildings, Elgin Cathedral is a magnificent ruin, much of which dates back to the 13th century.
Its many outstanding architectural features include the country’s finest octagonal chapter house.
51. Duff House
A magnificent early Georgian mansion, designed by William Adam for the Earl of Fife, is now open as a Country House Gallery of the National Galleries of Scotland.
52. Burghead Well
A rock-cut well, identified by some as an early Christian baptistry associated with the local cult of St Ethan.
53. Elgin Museum
Elgin Museum is Scotland’s oldest independent museum.
Objects displayed from all around the world, but especially from Moray, dating from before the dinosaurs to the present day.
54. Moray Motor Museum
Moray Motor Museum is housed in a light and airy old mill building, part of which dates back to the era of the Cathedral when the Bishops of Moray ruled Moravia, and was used by them as a grain mill.
The Moray Motor Museum houses a superb collection of veteran, vintage, classic cars and motorbikes.
55. St Peter's Kirk & Parish Cross
The roofless remains of the kirk include the base of a 14th-century western tower, a 16th-century vaulted porch and some interesting tombstones. The cross is of 14th-century date
Family Activities
Below are just a few of the family attractions available in the Lossiemouth area, there are still many more for you to discover.
56. Moray Leisure Centre
The Moray Leisure Centre has excellent swimming facilities for both the serious and the fun swimmer. Also a Health & Wellness Suite, Ice Rink, a Relaxation Suite with sauna, steam room and spa. Creche facilities, soft play centre, and cafe.
57. Bowl 2000
Bowl 2000 has now been providing the best in entertainment for more than 10 years. Having 14 lanes of Bowling, a premier Soft Play area, Restaurant, Bar and Pool facilities we have something for everyone.They also offer Lunar Land indoor play area, plus Pool Tables, Air Hockey, and high quality Arcade Games.
58. Outfit Moray
Outfit Moray is an award winning outdoor education charity based in Lossiemouth, Moray, NE Scotland. We offer activities, courses and tailored programmes for schools, adults, families, and groups. Any money we make goes straight back into helping us to make a positive difference to the lives of the young people we work with.
59. Macduff Aquarium
Situated on Aberdeenshire's scenic coast in the traditional fishing town of Macduff, Macduff Marine Aquarium features marine life from the Moray Firth, Scotland's largest bay, in a variety of exciting and innovative exhibits. Visitors come face to face with hundreds of native fish and invertebrates normally only seen by SCUBA divers who brave the chilly waters of the North Sea.
60. Highland Wildlife Park
Discover Scottish wildlife and endangered animals of the world's mountains and tundra in our spectacular setting. Drive around the Main Reserve in your own car and then investigate the walk-round area on foot.
61. Landmark Heritage & Forest Adventure Park
Landmark has something for you no matter your age or ability – it’s simply Wild, Fabulous Fun in the Highlands. The Runaway Timber Train - our family rollercoaster. Bamboozeleum, an exhibition of mind-boggling puzzles, illusions and amazing visual effects. The Watercoaster is a wild river experience on a runaway raft. Watch a working Steam-powered Sawmill and a Clydesdale Horse hauling logs. Red Squirrel Trail and TreeTop Trail. Climb the country's tallest timber Tower, Ant City Adventure Playground; conquer 'The Pinnacle' climbing wall; take the plunge on Skydive and test your monkey factor on RopeworX or, for smaller people, The Tarzan Trail,enjoy a great value meal in the restaurant or from our pinewood snack bar.
Visitor Centres
There are a good few visitor centres for your enjoyment from factory outlets to full themed visitor centres, below are just a few within easy reach of Lossiemouth.
62 Baxters Highland Village
For four generations, the Baxter family have been producing some of the UK's finest soups, preserves, condiments, beetroot, chutneys and a wide range of other fine quality food products. Today, 142 years on, each recipe is carefully developed with the personal guidance of Audrey Baxter and our dedicated team of experienced chefs.
63 Walkers Shortbread
In the heart of beautiful Speyside, in the Scottish highlands, nestles the village of Aberlour, where the Walker family has been producing the world’s finest shortbread for over a hundred years.
64. Johnstons Woollen Mill
Johnstons of Elgin manufactures the finest cashmere cloth, knitwear and accessories from its mills in Hawick and Elgin. When you see an authentic Johnstons of Elgin product, you can be sure it has been made in Scotland to a standard of quality synonymous with a company that has been manufacturing since 1797.
65. Speyside Cooperage
In the heart of Scotland’s rolling hills lies Speyside Cooperage, the only working cooperage in the UK where you can experience the ancient art of coopering.
Since 1947, the family owned Speyside Cooperage has produced the finest casks from the best American Oak. Today the cooperage continues to work and produce the age-old product, still using traditional methods and tools. Although shipped across the world, many of the casks remain in Scotland, providing a vital ingredient in Scotland’s whisky making process.
66. Brodie Countryfare
Brodie Countryfare is one of the most pleasant shopping experiences in the North of Scotland, combining a blend of quality products with a traditional Scottish welcome. Visit us for a wide range of gift ideas, womenswear, menswear and luxury interiors.
1. Outf!t Moray
Adventure Activities - Environmental Education - Journeys & Expeditions - Outdoor Learning
We work in close partnership with schools, youth agencies and youth groups to develop the potential of young people in the local area.
We offer a wide range of activities and courses to the general public, these could be for a birthday party, group of friends or family.
We run a fantastic volunteer programme that enables adults to gain valuable experience, training and qualifications in return for helping Outfit Moray to work with groups of young people.
We are Licensed by AALA (Adventurous Activity Licensing Authority) and all staff hold NGB (National Governing Body Qualifications) where appropriate.
All technical equipment is provided. We hire Mountain bikes, Canoes, Kayaks, Wetsuits.
We sell high quality used outdoor equipment: Mountain bikes, Wetsuits, Buoyancy aids and occasionally canoes and kayaks.
15 Shore Street,
Lossiemouth
IV31 6PB
Tel: 01343 549571
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.outfitmoray.com
2. Speyside Way
3. Gordon Castle Estate
4. Troup Head RSPB Reserve
5. Dolphin Watching Moray Firth
6. Clay pigeon shooting
7. Banffshire Coast
8. Huntly Falconry Centre
9. Culbin Forest Walks
10. Moray Monster Trails
11. Glenlivet Crown Estate
12. Scotpeak
13.Quarrelwood Walks
14. House of Mulben
15. Glen of Rothes Fishery
16. East Grange
17. Loch of Strathbeg
GOLF
18. Covesea Links
The 9 hole course sits at the end of its own windy road, nestled in a cove right on the coast between Lossiemouth and Hopeman.
The course follows the contours of the cove, offering stunning views of the coast along the way.
The aim of the course is to provide pay and play golf in beautiful Moray that is playable for beginners but a challenge for the experienced.
Simply turn up and play.
9 Holes: Links golf for everyone, and perfect for an outing or just for a quick round with clubs available for hire.
Hopeman Road,
Duffus,
Moray,
IV30 5QS
Tel: 01343 810012
Email: [email protected]
19. Moray Golf Club
Where else could you follow in the footsteps of Old Tom Morris and Henry Cotton in the same day?
The old course is considered to be one of the finest links courses in Scotland. A classic links designed by Old Tom Morris with deep revetted bunkers,
undulating gorse lined fairways and smooth fast greens. It is a superb test of golf with seven par fours over 400 yards.
Henry Cotton's preference for precision golf can be seen with the shorter but somewhat tighter new course with greens smaller than the Old but every bit as good,
and equally challenging and rewarding.
Moray Golf Club is truly one of Scotland's gems, a fitting tribute to the artistry of Old Tom Morris and Henry Cotton and a must for golfers visiting the area.
The club welcomes applications for membership.
Stotfield Road,
Lossiemouth
IV31 6QS
Tel: 01343 812018
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.moraygolf.co.uk
20. Golf Dedication Centre
Situated within one of the most picturesque settings in Scotland, the Golf Dedication Centre has prime position adjacent to the Lighthouse and has superb views over the town and the Moray Firth.
Our 12 bay driving range looks towards the light house, is covered and has the latest electric pop up tees.
There is a 3 par 9 hole pitching put for family fun and a PGA professional can be booked on site for lessons.
The Golf Dedication Centre has the best stocked golf shop in Moray. Major brands of golf & club equipment include:
Cobra, Wilson & Mizuno with authorised custom fit for all major brands.
A wide variety of clothing labels include Sunderland, Glenmuir & PGA Collection.
Our staff will be pleased to advise you on which equipment would best suit you, and we have a full range of trial clubs to ensure you make the right choice.
Covesea,
Lossiemouth
IV31 6SP
Tel: 01343 810061
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.golfdedicationcentre.co.uk
WHISKY
Lossiemouth is the ideal base for exploring the North East of Scotland, with it's miles of sandy beaches, watersports, wildlife and walking, not to mention the world renowned Malt Whisky Trail. With over 50 distilleries within easy reach, Lossiemouth is a perfect starting point. Below is just a selection of distilleries with visitor facilities:-
21. Glen Moray
A warm welcome awaits you at Glen Moray Distillery in Elgin.
Glen Moray has been distilled on the banks of the River Lossie since 1897 by a small dedicated team of craftsmen.
22. Benromach
Speyside’s smallest distillery is located on the outskirts of the ancient market town of Forres.
On your visit, you can see the mash tun, and the burnished copper stills, and witness our experienced distillers create the unique qualities of Benromach Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
23. Glenrothes
The Glenrothes is an award winning Speyside Single Malt of exceptional quality.
A combination of many factors including our unusually slow distillation process in tall copper pot stills deliver our characteristic sweet, fruity and elegant spirit. The distillery lies at the foot of the Mannoch Hills beside the Rothes Burn.
24. Aberlour
Situated at the junction of the Rivers Lour and Spey, the distillery lies in a beautiful glen, surrounded by glorious scenery dominated by the rugged peaks of Ben Rinnes.
Pure spring water for making the whisky is drawn from the River Lour, and the maturing spirit in the warehouse beneficially inhales the moist Speyside air.
25. Balvenie
The Balvenie tour takes around three hours, including a nosing and tasting. It visits parts of a distillery not normally seen by the public, including our cooperage and working floor maltings. We start things off with a coffee and a chat and always end with a dram or two.
26. Glenfiddich
Set in the heart of the Highlands, Glenfiddich (meaning ‘Valley of the Deer’ in Gaelic) is a place of breathtaking beauty.
Glenfiddich is little changed since 1886, when William Grant and his nine children rolled up their sleeves to build the Distillery with their bare hands.
27. Strathisla
Welcome to the oldest operating distillery in the Highlands.
There is no better place to experience the age-old craft of whisky making at first hand. Dating from 1786, much of the buildings have changed little, from the old cobbled courtyard to the distinctive double pagodas, making it one of the most picturesque distilleries in Scotland.
28. Glenlivet
The Glenlivet Distillery, near Ballindalloch is the oldest legal distillery in the parish of Glenlivet, and the production place of the Scottish whisky of the same name. It is described in packaging and advertising as "The single malt that started it all". It was founded in 1824 and it has operateD almost contiinuously since
Castles
In Scotland you are never far from a castle and Moray is no exception.
Below is a brief list of castles within easy reach of Lossiemouth and is by no means exhaustive.
29. Findlater Castle
On the coast between Cullen and Sandend are the ruins of Findlater Castle, perched precariously on an outcrop of rock.
There has been some form of fortification on the site since at least the 13th century, but the remaining buildings probably date from the late 14th century when the castle was owned by the Sinclairs, or possibly from the mid 15th century when it passed to the Ogilvies.
30. Duffus Castle
The castle was built in the mid 12th century by Freskin, Lord of Strathbrock, a Flemish knight, whose descendants took the title ‘de Moravia’ (of Moray). Freskin was given the land at Duffus by King David I, and by 1151 the castle was complete enough to accommodate the King while he supervised the construction of nearby Kinloss Abbey and was among the foremost defensible strongholds in Scotland.
31. Balvenie Castle
For over 500 years, Balvenie Castle served as the formidable stronghold of the great lords who ruled over this part of north-east Scotland.
The immensely powerful ‘Black’ Comyn earls of Buchan built it in the 13th century. Forfeited in the early 14th century, the stronghold passed to the mighty ‘Black’ Douglases and when they too were wiped out around 1455 by James II, the victorious Stewart king entrusted it to a kinsman, John Stewart, Earl of Atholl. It remained with his descendants for the next 250 years
32. Huntly Castle
The earls of Fife built the original stronghold, the Peel of Strathbogie, around 1190, to guard the crossing-point where the rivers Bogie and Deveron meet. The Fifes of Strathbogie lost their lands and titles in 1314, after taking the wrong side at the Battle of Bannockburn. The victorious King Robert Bruce granted Strathbogie to a loyal supporter, Sir Adam Gordon of Huntly. Around 1445, Alexander, 2nd Lord Gordon, was created Earl of Huntly. He changed the name of his residence from Strathbogie to Huntly.
33. Drumin Castle
King Robert II granted the lands of Strathavon (including Drumin) to his son Alexander Stewart (The Wolf of Badenoch) on the 17th July 1372. He descended upon Moray at the head of a large number of "wild, wykked Hieland-men." who sacked the town of Forres, before heading east, destroying Pluscarden Abbey en route to Elgin. They then sacked and burnt most of the town of Elgin including, the 'Lantern of the North', Elgin Cathedral to the ground in 1390.
34. Fyvie Castle
Fyvie Castle is one of Scotland’s great baronial fortress palaces. Fyvie dates back to the 13th century when it was a royal stronghold.
Both William the Lyon and Alexander II held court here, and Edward I of England and Robert the Bruce were both visitors. From 1390, five successive families owned Fyvie, each contributing to the development of the castle. An old tradition claims that these families – Preston, Meldrum, Seton, Gordon and Leith – each built one of Fyvie’s five towers.
35. Brodie Castle
The castle was the home of the Brodie family until the late 20th century. The family’s association with the area goes back further than the building of the castle, possibly as far as 1160 when it is believed Malcom IV gave these lands to the Brodies.
Brodie has unusual plaster ceilings, a major art collection and tells the fascinating story of the Brodie family.
There is a woodland walk with a large pond and a nature trail with access to wildlife observation hides.
In springtime the grounds are carpeted with many varieties of daffodils for which Brodie Castle is rightly famous.
36. Ballindalloch Castle
One of the few privately owned castles to have been lived in continuously by its original family. The Macpherson-Grants have resided here since 1546. Known as the Pearl of the North, it is located in the heart of Speyside, near to the famed local whisky distilleries of Cragganmore, Glenlivet, Glenfarclas and Glenfiddich.
Surrounded by majestic hills, and with the tumbling waters of the Rivers Spey and Avon flowing through the grounds, the setting is truly magnificent.
Archaeology & History
The North East of Scotland has a rich and varied past, here you can find links to archaeological sites of interest and other resources. Click the title to open the web site.
37. Lossiefowk
A web site dedicated to Lossiefowk all over the world
38. History of NE Scotland
Aberdeenshire Council's Brief History of the North East of Scotland
39. Local Heritage Services
The Local Heritage Centre in Elgin, holds a comprehensive range of unique materials about Moray’s rich past.
40. Stone Circles
Explore Prehistoric Standing and Recumbent Stone Circles of North East Scotland.
41. Standing Stones
Visit impressive Prehistoric standing stones surviving in striking locations.
42. Round Burial Cairns
Discover Neolithic and Bronze Age burials of important community members.
43. Clava Cairns
Visit special Bronze Age burial cairns that have a stone circle surrounding a tomb.
44. Henges
Learn about these ceremonial enclosures from the late Neolithic.
45. Pictish Symbol Stones
View Early Medieval carved stones with intricate designs and symbols.
46. Long Cairns & Barrows
Learn about the burials of the first farmers during the Neolithic.
47. Hill Forts & Castles
Explore Prehistoric hill and coastal forts, Pictish strongholds and Medieval castles.
48. Souterraines
Visit these underground structures from the Iron Age.
Other Sites of Interest
There are many other sites to visit in our fascinating corner of Scotland, Bishops Palaces, Elgin Cathedral, Museums and many other sites of interest. Below is just a breif selection. Click to open the web site, all links open in a new window.
The Lossiemouth Fisheries and Community Museum
Housed in a former net mending loft situated in Pitgaveny Quay, Lossiemouth. The museum gives an insight into the Scottish fishing industry past and present. It also contains a reconstruction of James Ramsey MacDonald's study from his Lossiemouth house. Ramsey MacDonald was born in Lossiemouth and became the first Labour Prime Minister.
49. Spynie Palace
Spynie Palace was for five centuries the residence of the bishops of Moray. During that time, the palace stood on the edge of Spynie Loch, a sea-loch giving safe anchorage for fishing boats and merchant vessels.
50. Elgin Cathedral
One of Scotland’s most beautiful medieval buildings, Elgin Cathedral is a magnificent ruin, much of which dates back to the 13th century.
Its many outstanding architectural features include the country’s finest octagonal chapter house.
51. Duff House
A magnificent early Georgian mansion, designed by William Adam for the Earl of Fife, is now open as a Country House Gallery of the National Galleries of Scotland.
52. Burghead Well
A rock-cut well, identified by some as an early Christian baptistry associated with the local cult of St Ethan.
53. Elgin Museum
Elgin Museum is Scotland’s oldest independent museum.
Objects displayed from all around the world, but especially from Moray, dating from before the dinosaurs to the present day.
54. Moray Motor Museum
Moray Motor Museum is housed in a light and airy old mill building, part of which dates back to the era of the Cathedral when the Bishops of Moray ruled Moravia, and was used by them as a grain mill.
The Moray Motor Museum houses a superb collection of veteran, vintage, classic cars and motorbikes.
55. St Peter's Kirk & Parish Cross
The roofless remains of the kirk include the base of a 14th-century western tower, a 16th-century vaulted porch and some interesting tombstones. The cross is of 14th-century date
Family Activities
Below are just a few of the family attractions available in the Lossiemouth area, there are still many more for you to discover.
56. Moray Leisure Centre
The Moray Leisure Centre has excellent swimming facilities for both the serious and the fun swimmer. Also a Health & Wellness Suite, Ice Rink, a Relaxation Suite with sauna, steam room and spa. Creche facilities, soft play centre, and cafe.
57. Bowl 2000
Bowl 2000 has now been providing the best in entertainment for more than 10 years. Having 14 lanes of Bowling, a premier Soft Play area, Restaurant, Bar and Pool facilities we have something for everyone.They also offer Lunar Land indoor play area, plus Pool Tables, Air Hockey, and high quality Arcade Games.
58. Outfit Moray
Outfit Moray is an award winning outdoor education charity based in Lossiemouth, Moray, NE Scotland. We offer activities, courses and tailored programmes for schools, adults, families, and groups. Any money we make goes straight back into helping us to make a positive difference to the lives of the young people we work with.
59. Macduff Aquarium
Situated on Aberdeenshire's scenic coast in the traditional fishing town of Macduff, Macduff Marine Aquarium features marine life from the Moray Firth, Scotland's largest bay, in a variety of exciting and innovative exhibits. Visitors come face to face with hundreds of native fish and invertebrates normally only seen by SCUBA divers who brave the chilly waters of the North Sea.
60. Highland Wildlife Park
Discover Scottish wildlife and endangered animals of the world's mountains and tundra in our spectacular setting. Drive around the Main Reserve in your own car and then investigate the walk-round area on foot.
61. Landmark Heritage & Forest Adventure Park
Landmark has something for you no matter your age or ability – it’s simply Wild, Fabulous Fun in the Highlands. The Runaway Timber Train - our family rollercoaster. Bamboozeleum, an exhibition of mind-boggling puzzles, illusions and amazing visual effects. The Watercoaster is a wild river experience on a runaway raft. Watch a working Steam-powered Sawmill and a Clydesdale Horse hauling logs. Red Squirrel Trail and TreeTop Trail. Climb the country's tallest timber Tower, Ant City Adventure Playground; conquer 'The Pinnacle' climbing wall; take the plunge on Skydive and test your monkey factor on RopeworX or, for smaller people, The Tarzan Trail,enjoy a great value meal in the restaurant or from our pinewood snack bar.
Visitor Centres
There are a good few visitor centres for your enjoyment from factory outlets to full themed visitor centres, below are just a few within easy reach of Lossiemouth.
62 Baxters Highland Village
For four generations, the Baxter family have been producing some of the UK's finest soups, preserves, condiments, beetroot, chutneys and a wide range of other fine quality food products. Today, 142 years on, each recipe is carefully developed with the personal guidance of Audrey Baxter and our dedicated team of experienced chefs.
63 Walkers Shortbread
In the heart of beautiful Speyside, in the Scottish highlands, nestles the village of Aberlour, where the Walker family has been producing the world’s finest shortbread for over a hundred years.
64. Johnstons Woollen Mill
Johnstons of Elgin manufactures the finest cashmere cloth, knitwear and accessories from its mills in Hawick and Elgin. When you see an authentic Johnstons of Elgin product, you can be sure it has been made in Scotland to a standard of quality synonymous with a company that has been manufacturing since 1797.
65. Speyside Cooperage
In the heart of Scotland’s rolling hills lies Speyside Cooperage, the only working cooperage in the UK where you can experience the ancient art of coopering.
Since 1947, the family owned Speyside Cooperage has produced the finest casks from the best American Oak. Today the cooperage continues to work and produce the age-old product, still using traditional methods and tools. Although shipped across the world, many of the casks remain in Scotland, providing a vital ingredient in Scotland’s whisky making process.
66. Brodie Countryfare
Brodie Countryfare is one of the most pleasant shopping experiences in the North of Scotland, combining a blend of quality products with a traditional Scottish welcome. Visit us for a wide range of gift ideas, womenswear, menswear and luxury interiors.
