day trips from elgin scotland

• Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire & Moray

Elgin in Scotland is one of Scotland’s world-famous whisky regions and is known for its local distilleries and breathtaking scenery. The picturesque town of Elgin lies on the south coast of the Moray Firth, between Inverness and Aberdeen. You’ll discover there are many things to do in Elgin that make it one of the best holiday destinations to come and see.

This modern town was once a royal burgh but now acts as the administrative and commercial centre for the Moray region of Scotland. Tourists flock to Elgin to try its wide variety of excellent single malt whiskies, and the city has multiple award-winning distilleries.

It’s a stunning city with an in-depth history and beautiful sights, making it a worthwhile destination as you explore the rolling landscapes of Scotland.

Things to do in Elgin

This part of Northern Scotland has a lot to offer its visitors and tourists come here to explore and enjoy the many notable hotspots that Elgin offers.

This beautiful town has a lot going for it. You can spend an afternoon exploring the grounds of the castles dotted around Elgin’s surroundings, explore the famed Elgin Cathedral, enjoy some time at the renowned distilleries, relax at the Moray Leisure Centre, or dive deep into the culture and heritage of the region.

You can also explore the high street and its many shops and cafes, take a trip to the ice rink in town or enjoy the jaw-dropping architecture of the many historic buildings.

There’s no doubt that there are many things to do in Elgin, and this list will help you decide what you should be putting on your to-do list when you come and explore one of Scotland’s hidden gems tucked in its Northern region.

Elgin Cathedral

Elgin Cathedral is the town’s famous popular tourist attraction and one of the top things to do in Elgin. Located on the east side of the city and known as the ‘Lantern of the North’ by Elgin’s locals, this majestic historic ruin is utterly majestic.

History geeks will be amazed by Elgin Cathedral, it’s not only one of Scotland’s most beautiful medieval buildings, but it also dates back to the 13th century! You can explore the ruins of Elgin Cathedral and relive its history as you walk through its old stones.

Elgin Cathedral was damaged in a fire many centuries ago; however, you can still climb two towers that are still intact. These are both open to the public, and the climb is well worth it as you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the town.

Mossend Farm: Alpaca Days Out

Mossend Farm is a dream day out for an animal lover. You can book a family-friendly one-hour Alpaca Safari or an adult-only three-hour  Alpaca Trek at Mossend Farm  in Moray, Scotland.

If you’ve ever wanted to get up close to a Scottish alpaca and spend some quality time with them in the fields, this attraction is meant for you. Afterwards, hosts treat guests to coffee and cakes in the farmhouse kitchen – talk about hospitality!

The staff are lovely, and guests love learning about and meeting Mossend Farm’s exceptional residents. Prebooking is essential for this day out in Elgin, so what are you waiting for?

Visit Elgin Distilleries

While in Elgin, you’d be remiss not to attend one of the many established distilleries that make their home here. Elgin is famed for its wide variety of single malt whiskies, and taking an afternoon to tour the distilleries is a necessary part of experiencing what Elgin truly offers.

We’ve listed a few of the most famous distilleries, such as Glen Elgin and Glen Moray, each catering to a unique set of tastes and preferences, making each visit a wholly fantastic adventure!

Glen Moray Distillery

Sitting snuggly on the west side of Eglin is the Glen Moray Distillery building, home to the world-class Glen Moray whisky.

This Distillery is a treat to visit and offers tours of their facilities that take you on the journey of how Glen Moray is crafted. It’s easy to get lost in the stories and history of this famed Distillery when it’s told by one of the passionate tour guides who offer an in-depth look into the distilling process.

The Benriach Distillery

Founded in 1898, the Benriach Distillery may seem unassuming from the outside. Still, it holds an incredible facility and expert distillers who work to create some of Scotland’s most excellent single malt whisky within its walls.

You can take a tour of the facilities, enjoy tasting some of Scotland’s finest, and explore the Distillery’s shop for a bottle of your favourite to take back home with you! Check out their website for more information.

The Benriach Distillery were the winner of Global Whisky Distiller of the Year in 2015, so don’t miss out on stopping by and experiencing this Distillery’s incredible flavours.

Gordon & MacPhail

If you’ve come to Scotland to try excellent whiskies, you won’t want to leave out a trip to Gordon & MacPhail, who’ve been creating brilliant single malt whiskies for over 125 years.

With over 800 incredible blends to choose from, Gordon & MacPhail are unparalleled in deciding which whisky is suitable for you – made all the easier at one of their expansive and unique tasting sessions.

You can expect to enjoy a tasting that touches all corners of Scotland while at Gordon & MacPhail, so why not get a few friends together and make an afternoon at this bespoke Distillery.

No doubt one of the most stunning places to see in Elgin is Cove Bay, located just north of the town, which offers incredible views of the North Sea.

This lovely little Bay is tucked away and accessible to those who make the brief trail walk along the coast. Luckily, a car park nearby makes reaching Cove Bay an easy attraction to fit into your day of sightseeing with the kids.

The Bay exudes extraordinary natural beauty, white sands, serene blue waters, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes Cove Bay the perfect place to enjoy a day out when the weather is just right!

Pluscarden Abbey

The Pluscarden Abbey allows you to experience the lives of monks as if you were amongst them in the 13th-century.

Situated a few miles south of Eglin, visiting the Pluscarden Abbey building is one of the top things to do in Elgin, Scotland. Not only is the Abbey comprised of incredible architecture and a secluded glen, but it holds a restful atmosphere from the deep devotion found here.

The Pluscarden Abbey is a short trip from Elgin and an excellent place for those looking for a brief respite from their worries – Exactly what a vacation should be all about!

Spynie Palace

Spynie Palace was once a place of royalty and still boasts an impressive design and grandeur that immerses you in this extraordinary attraction’s history.

Built by three Bishops of Moray, whose coats of arms still hang in the Palace, Spynie Palace has many incredible sights like David’s Tower – the largest tower by volume in Scotland!

Every corridor you walk down and corner you take is sure to be filled with niche historical facts and finds, perfect for anyone fascinated with Scotland’s detailed past. And if history is not to your fancy, the surrounding areas of Spynie are host to a wide variety of wildlife and birdsong.

Visiting Spynie, north of Elgin, is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Elgin, so make sure to add it to your list!

Duffus Castle Gallery

The Duffus Castle Gallery sets the stage to take you back to over 900 years ago, showing off a moat-and-bailey style Elgin castle that dates back to the 1140s!

Free to enter and filled with informative signs that depict the Castle’s remarkable history, Duffus Castle Gallery is one attraction you don’t want to miss out on while visiting Elgin, Scotland. Even better, this hotspot destination is only a 10-minute drive from the town centre, which means you can fit it in neatly with the region’s many other attractions.

If you find yourself parched, feel free to quench your thirst at the car park’s coffee stand.

Biblical Garden Elgin

If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in Elgin between the beginning of May and the end of September, then do yourself a favour and visit the magical Biblical Garden Elgin.

This serene Garden welcomes visitors from all over the world and amazes with its lush garden features that tie into Biblical stories and references. The Garden’s open days are the perfect outing for a warm Spring or Summer day and allow you to get lost in the over 100 plant species and mosaic artworks scattered throughout the Garden.

This stunning meadow is free to enter, so you have no reason not to enjoy its tranquil atmosphere.

Moray Motor Museum

The Moray Motor Museum is a famous haven for motor enthusiasts!

This attraction will have you wishing you were driving down the road in one of their stylish two-seaters. Exploring their a superb collection of veteran, vintage, and classic cars and motorbikes is no question an excellent way to spend an afternoon

Although if you’re interested, they do offer wedding hires so you can be the envy of your guests on your special day.

This excellent building has a lot of one-of-a-kind vintage vehicles that are undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Elgin, Moray.

Elgin Museum

Elgin has one of Britain’s oldest museums. The Elgin Museum opened in 1843 and has a fantastic collection of exhibits and galleries focusing on the in-depth history of Elgin, Scotland.

The Elgin Museum caters to all the periods of Moray, from before the dinosaurs to the modern-day Elgin. You can find this expansive historical collection at the east end of Elgin High Street, a simple hop, skip and jump away from many luxury accommodation options available in town.

The Elgin Museum is the ideal place to start any journey if you’re travelling throughout Scotland and the neighbouring cities of Edinburgh and Inverness.

Hopeman West Beach

If you’re craving the summer sun of Scotland, then venture a few miles north of Elgin, and you’ll find the spectacular Hopeman West Beach.

This Beach is perfect for a family day out when the sun is shining and the thought of white sands and tranquil waves is too tempting. The Beach is also close to the quaint town of Hopeman, so you’re always a short trip away from stocking up on any beachwear, snacks, or that all-important sunscreen.

Hopeman West Beach is also filled with incredible sights, including spectacular views of the Moray Firth. If you love the idea of a long walk on a beach at sunset, this is the place for you!

Lady Hill Castle

Lady Hill Castle can be found at the heart of Elgin and offers some of the best views of the town of Elgin.

The remains of the ruined Lady Hill Castle can also be found atop the hill, although not much of the royal Castle remains. However, at the summit is a grand central tower column with a statue of the Duke of Gordon on the very top.

This hill is an excellent way to familiarise yourself with Elgin when you first arrive and should be on your list of things to do when you first come to explore the city!

Speyside Falconry

Ever wanted to immerse yourself in the sport of kings? Speyside Falconry offers just that and more!

Located a couple of miles south of Elgin, this established Falconry allows you to learn and spend time with many birds of prey, from falcons, hawks, and owls in the country south of Elgin.

You can get hands-on, helping and learning about how these magnificent birds are trained, kept, and do some falconry manoeuvres yourself! Keep in mind that kids have to be 12 and over to have some of these experiences. Make sure to check out their website for more information.

There’s no place quite like the Speyside Falconry in Moray, Scotland so ensure you take some time while visiting Elgin to take a trip to this superb destination.

More Things to do in Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire & Moray

• Things to do in Aberdeen
• Things to do in Aberlour
• Things to do in Ballater
• Things to do in Banchory
• Things to do in Braemar
• Things to do in Dufftown
• Things to do in Inverurie
• Things to do in Keith
• Things to do in Peterhead
• Things to do in Royal Deeside
• Things to do in Stonehaven

Graham Grieve

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Nestled in the world-famous whisky region, Elgin lies on the south coast of the Moray Firth roughly midway between Inverness and Aberdeen and straddles the River Lossie.

The town offers many pleasant characteristics, breathtaking scenery and a number of local distilleries including Glen Moray , Gordon & MacPhail  and Glen Elgin, most of which have open days for the public and whisky trails. On North College Street is the lovely ruin of Elgin Cathedral . Once considered Scotland's most beautiful cathedral, rivalling St Andrews  in importance, today it is little more than a shell, though it does retain its original facade. Unusual features include the Pictish cross slab in the middle of the ruins and the cracked gravestones with their memento mori of skulls and crossbones. At the very top of High Street is one of Britain's oldest museums, the Elgin Museum , housed in this building since 1843.

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What's Nearby

Accommodation, attractions, food & drink, terms and conditions.

Discover how our tours can align with the train times for the Nairn, Forres & Elgin area as WOW Scotland does the research for you!

At WOW we think everyone should experience our tours!

If you are keen to take our Ultimate Isle of Skye Tour and are based in Nairn, Forres or Elgin then see below how the timings work together perfectly!

With our departure from Inverness timed to fit in with the morning train, and our arrival back in Inverness timed to fit in with the last train’s departure, the magnificent experience will definitely be worth the long day!

Which trains should I take?

The recommended train times from, and to, Elgin, Forres & Nairn are stated below, but please check the Scotrail website to ensure that the departure times are current, as WOW Scotland cannot be held liable for timetable changes. You will arrive into Inverness train station at 0743, then it is two minute walk to our pick up point.

Outward Journey

Depart Elgin 0659

Depart Forres 0712

Depart Nairn 0723

Arrive Inverness 0743

Please note that there is a later train which arrives into Inverness at 0806 – check in closes for our tour at 0805, with departure promptly at 0815, so we’d recommend getting the earlier departure in order to minimise risk.

Note that this train does not run on a Sunday – it is not possible to link by train from Elgin, Forres or Nairn on Sunday mornings.

Return Journey

Depart Inverness 2037

Arrive Nairn 2057

Arrive Forres 2113

Arrive Elgin 2122

Note that there is also a later departure, at 2132.

Note that this train does not run on a Sunday – there are alternative departures at 2107 and 2142.

How do I book train tickets?

Train tickets can easily be booked online on www.scotrail.co.uk . We would strongly recommend purchasing tickets in advance, rather than on the day, as it is usually much cheaper. However, it is only possible to book tickets a maximum of 12 weeks in advance.

Does the tour price include my train ticket?

No, the tour price only includes the guiding and transportation on your choice of tour. You must purchase your train tickets separately.

What if the train arrives late into Inverness in the morning?

92% of all Scotrail trains in the Highlands arrive on time. However, if your train is late for any reason we will endeavour to help you as much as we can. However, the latest the coach will depart is the scheduled departure time.

What if the tour arrives late back into Inverness in the evening?

If the tour arrives back after 2133 (this is very unlikely, as the Ultimate Isle of Skye Tour is scheduled to return at 2015) and you miss your train, you will need to get a bus or a taxi back to Nairn/Forres/Elgin at your own expense.

What if I am running late and miss the train to/from Inverness

Although we will do our best to accommodate the train or tour being late, we will not be able to assist if you are late due to your own mistakes. Please make sure that you get to the train station in plenty time for your departures, to avoid any issues.

Is there anything else I need to do?

If you wish to take one of our tours and plan to travel to/from Inverness on the train to/from Elgin, Nairn, or Forres please advise us upon booking, in order that we can ensure that the tour does not over-run in the evening. If you do not tell us that you are taking the train then we will not be held responsible for any delays.

Watch our Isle of Skye Tour video to find out why you should join this wonderful day tour;

Join us on our award-winning tours

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• Excursions and Day Trips from Aviemore

There are some great excursions and day trips that you can make from Aviemore during your stay. All day trips listed below are between 30 minutes to 2 hours drive from our cottages.

See our list of day trips and excursions from Aviemore below!

30 miles north of Aviemore.

The capital city of the Highlands, Inverness is ideal for a spot of retail therapy and also has a wide choice of pubs, restaurants and cafes. On the way up to Inverness why not pop into the whisky distillery at Tomatin , just 16 miles from Aviemore. And not to be missed is the Culloden Battlefield and visitor centre just outside the city itself.

40 miles or so from Aviemore.

Heading through Inverness and then taking the road to Fort William. We recommend driving to Drumnadrochit on the west side of Loch Ness. From here you will have great views of the UK’s largest loch. Also at Loch Ness is the magnificently situated Urquhart Castle which has seen some of the most dramatic chapters in our nation’s history.

The Black Isle

35 miles or so north of aviemore..

There are good beaches and bays to explore, farm shops and plenty of fresh produce grown locally as well, with its own microclimate the weather can be quite appealing.

Fort George

41 miles from aviemore..

One of the most outstanding fortifications in Europe. It was built in the wake of the Battle of Culloden (1746) as a secure base for King George II’s army.

43 miles from Aviemore.

An attractive seaside town with a prime location on the Moray Firth and is one of the driest and sunniest places in Scotland.

66 miles from Aviemore.

Nestled in the world-famous whisky region, Elgin has breathtaking scenery and a number of local distilleries including Glen Moray , Gordon & MacPhail and Glen Elgin , most of which have open days for the public and whisky trails. 

Between Nairn and Elgin

Situated in Findhorn Bay, the village of Findhorn has a magnificent beach, a delightful harbour and a small heritage centre – well worth a visit.

27 miles from Aviemore

At a height of 1164 ft, Tomintoul is the highest village in the Highlands and sits on the northern slopes of the Cairngorm Mountains. 

52 miles from Aviemore

The nearest town to Balmoral Castle, one of the residences of the Royal Family, which explains the many ‘By Royal Appointment’ signs that can be seen on local shops and business. Close by is Royal Lochnagar Distillery which produces one of Scotland’s most exclusive whiskies.

60 miles from Aviemore

Situated at the eastern gateway to the highest mountains of the Cairngorms National Park, Braemar truly is an outdoor enthusiasts paradise.

Balmoral Estate

Between ballater and braemar.

The Royal Family’s residence. Their gardens, grounds and exhibitions open to the public from April through to the end of July.

The House of Bruar

Off the a9 between perth and aviemore.

Described as the Harrods of the Highlands is just under 50 miles from Aviemore and 37 miles from Perth. A very good pitstop if your heading in either direction as they have a great range of food and clothing to browse at your leisure.

Blair Atholl

This lovely village is rich in history and heritage. The impressive Blair Castle has acted as gatekeeper to the Scottish Highlands for over 700 years.

A great place to stop if you are travelling in either direction. It is also the home to the Blair Atholl Whisky Distillery and is also the base for the Blair Atholl Whisky distillery and just out of town the Edradour distillery.

72 miles from Aviemore

A quaint little town with brightly coloured ‘little houses’, the majestic Dunkeld Cathedral and Thomas Telford’s Dunkeld Bridge – definitely well worth a stop.

There really are some lovely places to explore not that far from Aviemore, too many to mention here. We really are in a great location to explore the Scottish Highlands and the Cairngorms National Park.

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The 'driest' town in Scotland home to cosy pubs perfect for autumn day out

Recent research has revealed the Scottish destinations with the least amount of rainfall, and the charming town that placed number one looks like an ideal autumn staycation destination.

• 11:05, 16 SEP 2024

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If there is one thing Scotland is known for, especially over the autumn, it is our wet weather.

While this summer wasn't exactly the driest we have ever seen, it will be nothing compared to the next few months . Fortunately, Scotland's spectacular scenery during the autumn more than makes up for the wetter conditions.

However, if you are looking to avoid the rain as much as possible, new research has revealed the areas in the country with the least amount of rainfall. According to experts at Online Marketing Surgery and Perfect Ponds , Elgin in Moray is the driest in Scotland — seeing just 739mm of rainfall last year.

Situated between Inverness and Aberdeen , the town is nestled along the idyllic River Lossie. Renowned for its gorgeous scenery, it makes for the perfect autumn staycation spot.

Elgin is the biggest settlement in Moray Speyside , home to around 25,000 people, so there is plenty to see and do. With the A96 running through the town, and a train station just a short walk from its centre, it is also readily accessible.

When arriving in Elgin, it is easy to become overwhelmed by just how much there is to do. That is why it is a good idea to start off by just taking a scenic walk around the town centre, where you will find a variety of independent shops selling everything from clothes and shoes to books.

Elgin is also a great spot for a bite to eat, with numerous cafés dotted around town where you can sit down for a coffee and a treat. Highlights include Batchen Street Coffee and The Ditsy Teacup.

If you are after something a bit more substantial, there are also plenty of restaurants. Pizza and burger joint Scribbles, trendy spot Badenoch's, and Indian specialists Qismat are just a few of the standouts.

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Meanwhile, there is nothing better than a cosy pub to warm up in with a pint and some good grub on a chilly autumn afternoon — and Elgin has more than enough to choose from. You can't go wrong with either The Drouthy Cobbler or The Granary, which both offer a warm atmosphere and a varied food and drinks menu.

Elsewhere, popular tourist spots around Elgin include the jaw-dropping ruins of the ancient Elgin Cathedral and the Moray Motor Museum. Hopeman East Beach is also just a short drive out of town, and is the perfect spot for a scenic walk if you get lucky with the weather.

With Moray being a world-famous whisky destination, there are also plenty of distilleries in the area to visit. One of the most well-known is Glen Moray, which offers a variety of tours and tastings.

For more information about what you can get up to in and around Elgin, check out the VisitScotland website .

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A Whisky Journey: Drams & Distilleries 1 day tour

Take a whisky lover’s ultimate tour of the best Speyside distilleries on this tour from Inverness.

Tour Highlights

Elgin Cathedral - Step back in time to 1224 when this gorgeous cathedral was built. 

Glen Moray Distillery - Light, smooth, and fruity: savour a classic Speyside whisky at a 120-year old distillery.

Tomatin Distillery - Their single malt and blended Scotch whisky will stay with you long after you depart. 

Strathspey - Pine trees line the rolling hills of this beautiful region of Scotland.

Speyside  With 50 whisky distilleries, this region is the heartland of Scotch whisky production. It also enchants with tranquil rivers, rolling hillsides and wee villages where hospitality is as warm as a dram by the hearth.

Your journey

Whether you're a whisky lover or a whisky learner, you're bound to get a taste for it in the beautiful region of Speyside.

Home to around 50% of all Scottish whisky distilleries, there's almost too much to see and drink. So on this tour we help you get the most out of the region by taking you to two distinct distilleries. It’s a chance to learn about the incredible history, process, and flavours of Scotland’s national drink.

* This tour will finish after 31st March 2025. If you're looking for a whisky tour from Inverness, have a look at our new 2025 whisky tour here.

Tour Details

Students and seniors over 60

• Unfortunately we don't carry anyone under 18 years old on this tour
• Pack your waterproof clothing and walking shoes
• Access to distillery production areas may not be possible
• Some distilleries offer tutored tastings instead of tours
• Distilleries may be substituted
• Some attraction tickets can be purchased in advance when you book your tour. You’ll have the option to add at check-out. Other attractions will not be available to book beforehand, instead you can purchase those while on tour. 
• Transport in a 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach
• Air conditioning as standard
• The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide
• Attraction entry tickets

Get ready to explore the Speyside region and Scotland’s most delectable industry.

You depart Inverness and travel through the beautiful Scottish country until you reach Tomatin Distillery. Their single malt and blended Scotch whisky has been around since 1897 and is a rich and wonderful way to start the day. 

Next up you journey into the beautiful region of Speyside, the whisky-hub of Scotland. You'll stop in at one of the little towns for a delicious lunch, to recharge and refuel for the rest of your day. And as you pass through the area, your driver-guide will take you to some beautiful spots we know you and your camera will love.

Your next stop will take you back in time to 1224 when it was built. Elgin Cathedral may be a ruin now but it was built dedicated to the Holy Trinity. Get your camera ready, it's well worth a shot. 

Now it's time for your afternoon treat. You are welcomed at Glen Moray Distillery, who have been producing their single malt Scotch whisky for over 120 years in the heart of Speyside. Here, you may join a tour and discover the different areas of whisky production and sample the golden-hued spirit itself.

Now it's time to head back to Inverness with new stories to tell and new whiskies to love. 

Itinerary and distillery visits are subject to change.

Please note that this tour will be finishing on 31st March 2025. From 1st April 2025, there will be a new whisky tour of this region called The Spirit of Speyside Whisky (from Inverness).

Attractions

Tour Attractions

You are able to pre-purchase entrance tickets to the following attractions at the time of booking:

• Tomatin Distillery 
• Glen Moray Distillery

Other attractions may be booked and paid locally during the tour.

Do you offer hotel pickups in the departure cities?

The UK and Ireland's historic city centres are full of narrow streets and winding roads. So, to speed up your departure, we only pick up from our central meeting points. What's more is leaving the city using the most direct route also reduces the carbon footprint of our tours.

Is there parking close to the departure point?

We don't recommend bringing your car into the centre of our departure cities. It can be hard to find parking, and there are excellent public transportation services.

When should I get to the departure point?

Arrive 15 minutes before your departure time. Due to waiting restrictions, we can't wait for you if you're late.

What happens if I'm late or miss the tour?

If you're late for your tour, our cancellation policy applies. 100% charges are applicable, and you will not be entitled to a refund or alternative.

What are your cancellation policies?

For one-day tours: You'll receive a full refund if you cancel 24 hours or more before the tour departure

For tours of between two and nine days: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 15 or more days before the tour departure

For tours of 10 or more days: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 21 or more days before the tour departure

For all European packaged tours: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 42 days before the tour departure.

If you cancel inside these notice periods, full charges will apply and no refunds will be issued.

To cancel your booking, email [email protected] as soon as possible. The effective date of cancellation will be the date we receive written confirmation from you.

Click here to view terms and conditions

Can Itineraries change?

Your tour will always follow the itinerary as closely as possible. Your driver-guide will keep you up to date on the road, and we'll try to get in touch about any large changes prior to your departure.

Can I pre-book a specific seat?

Due to logistical reasons, we're unable to let you pre-book a seat on the bus. But our comfortable 16-seat mini-coaches have huge windows. So, you'll always get a good view.

Are there toilets on the bus?

Unfortunately, we have no on-board toilet facilities, but you'll have regular comfort breaks.

How do you cater for people with accessibility needs?

We aim to accommodate everyone. To read more information on how we do this, click here to go to our accessibility guide.

Do you take children on your tours?

We regret we don't carry children under the age of five on our scheduled tours.

You can ask us about the tours we recommend for younger children. And if your child is less than 1.35m tall, you should let us know, so we can provide them with a suitable booster seat.

How much time do I get off the bus?

We want you to enjoy Britain and Ireland. And we believe the best way to do this is to get you off the mini-coach and out exploring. So, we give you plenty of time to take photos, go walking, and explore ancient ruins.

Why do you exclude visitor attractions?

We exclude visitor attractions in your tour price because it lets you travel your way. It means you can pamper yourself with a luxury lunch or skip an attraction whenever you feel like it.

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• Oct 15, 2019

How To Travel To Elgin, Scotland On A Day Trip

Updated: Mar 11, 2023

The Royal Burgh of Elgin dates back to 1190 AD. A former Cathedral City, the historic town is famous for its industries such as textiles and of course whisky distilling.

Much of Scotland can be reached very easily with public transportation. So why not make your travel plans include the northern Scottish town of Elgin? Here's how you can travel to Elgin on a day trip from Edinburgh.

River Lossie, Elgin ©MDHarding

Reaching Elgin

Travel by train on one of the most captivating journeys along the East Coast of Scotland from Edinburgh through to Aberdeen and beyond to Elgin. Enjoy the beautiful Scottish landscapes including the UNESCO World Heritage Site - Forth Rail Bridge, dramatic coastal scenes, and much more.

I traveled and returned to Edinburgh in one day, but to make the most out of your trip I would schedule a couple of days. There is a lot to see in Elgin and the surrounding areas.

If like me, you don't have much time are full of energy, and looking to travel to Elgin in one day, take the first train. The train departed Haymarket, Edinburgh at 05.35 after a quick change in Aberdeen I arrived in Elgin just before 10am. Returning just after 15.00 again changing in Aberdeen and reaching Edinburgh just before 20.00. If the weather is on your side you might just witness the incredible sunrise and sunsets as I did.

Top Tip: Do book your train tickets in advance to get the best rates and reserve your seats by the window for the best views. Did you know you can now buy a train pass that allows you to travel around Scotland? The Spirit of Scotland Pass can be purchased for 4 days of unlimited travel over 8 consecutive days or 8 days of unlimited travel over 15 consecutive days.

Sunset On Return Train Journey From Elgin ©MDHarding

Johnstons of Elgin

One of the highlights when visiting Elgin is a tour of Johnstons of Elgin . The tour is full of fascinating facts about the textile industry, the Scottish family business, and weaving. Discover how the Balmoral Royal Tweed came about and how there came to be a Pistachio Tree in the courtyard, as well as much more! The tour is very popular, please book ahead to avoid disappointment.

I visited on a Saturday when the machines were off, but to see the full workings it's best to visit between Monday to Thursday and book either the 10am tour or later in the afternoon for the full effect. Do bear in mind that it can be rather noisy.

Afterward don't miss the local, fresh produce in the restaurant. I can highly recommend the late breakfast - The Highland Scrambled Breakfast. Fluffy scrambled eggs and fresh Salmon on top of Potato Scones from Maclean's Highland Bakery. Yum!

This time of year is great to visit, with lots of inspiration for the home, gifts, and new seasonal wardrobe essentials.

Angora Goats at Johnstons of Elgin ©MDHarding

Elgin Cathedral

Historic Elgin Cathedral opened in 1224, the cathedral city was home to many monks. Close to the River Lossie, the city had everything it needed. It grew, and more buildings were built. Falling into disrepair during the Protestant Reformation in 1560, today you can see the incredible masonry from Pictish stones, floral carvings, and ghoulish representations. Climb the great central tower with its spiral staircase, and see its fascinating exhibitions and the 360-degree views from its highest point. Well worth a visit!

Did you know you can become a member of Historic Environment Scotland? Visit a few properties and the pass pays for itself! Discover more about how you can join today . Which of the 70 attractions will you visit?

Masonry at Elgin Cathedral, Elgin ©MDHarding

Elgin Museum

Walk through over 1000 years of history in the Elgin Museum . Discover more about this industrious town and how some of the incredible exhibits came to be here, in Scotland's oldest independent museum. I was blown away to read the story about the Peruvian Mummy, more about the Pictish people, and of course the local history.

The museum is free to visit but appreciates donations. Each of the volunteers is passionate to answer any questions you may have. You will be amazed!

Hand Embroidered Silk Map Dating 1736 - 1820, Elgin Museum ©MDHarding

Travel on to Lossiemouth & The Highland City of Inverness

Take the 33A from Elgin bus station to Lossiemouth and walk along its white sandy beaches. Enjoy a gelato from Lossiemouth's no1 ice cream parlor - Miele's of Lossie.

The highland city of Inverness is further along the same train line. Visit the legendary Loch Ness and see the Loch Ness monster, Cawdor Castle, and the Bronze Age Clava Cairn, as well as much more!

These are only some of the great places to see and explore. Looking for more inspiration for your Scotland trip? Get in touch !

Lossiemouth Beach ©MDHarding

I hope you have enjoyed reading and are inspired to visit Elgin. As always, I love to hear from you with any comments and questions you have. You can reach me via Email , Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram . Until next time, happy travels:)

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