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Elgin, the
largest town in the shire, and bustling nerve centre of Moray, is a
cathedral town thus qualifying for the title 'City'.
Sitting on the River Lossie the town has grown down through the ages
thanks to the agriculture, which continues all around, for, this, is
prime farming country. Elgin was created a Royal Burgh in the year 1234.
To the west of
the town stood a castle which was one of a line built to consolidate
the Moray lands from the viking threat
which was very active at that time in history. The castle was destroyed
after the battle of Bannockburn (1314) never to be raised again.
The cathedral once one of the finest in Scotland was twice ruined by
fire in the middle ages and in the eighteenth century the final destruction
took place. Only in the past few years have any attempts been made in
restoration work, however, the site is available for viewing.
To the north of the town lies Pitgaveny where King
Duncan was slain in battle whilst returning from another defeat,
which seemed to be the only thing he left to posterity, by either Torfinn
or Macbeth, or both, nobody can confirm
which, but certainly not as Shakespeare
depicts in his play.
The town has many
different Industries such as whisky distilling, wool milling, marketing
and commerce. The shopping centre is one of great variety and attracts
many people from distant places. A good day can be had just browsing
the retail outlets of Elgin.
For the visitor,
the town has a museum, swimming pool and bowling alley among others.
The Biblical Garden is there for the inquiring mind and should be of
interest to most. The Moray motor museum is a must for the car enthusiast
or nostalgic dreamer. There's also a leisure centre, which is extremely
popular.
A twenty-minute
journey will take you to the nearest beach, or, you can do some fishing
from the banks of the Lossie. There
are many good golf courses in the near vicinity starting with a golf
range in the town.
Millbuies
Country Park which is great for the family and Plusgarden Abbey for
obvious reasons, are also quite near to the town and are well worth
a visit.
For eats there's
an abundance of Hotels, Restaurants, Cafes and takeaways to enjoy at
very reasonable prices.
Hotels, Guesthouses, Caravan and Camping sites are available.
Travel is by rail, bus, coach or car.
For the tourists
from abroad the nearest airports are Inverness
and Aberdeen both connecting to Elgin by rail, bus or coach.
Glasgow and Edinburgh both connect to Inverness by air, rail or coach.
Aberdeen is also connected by air but only two days a week.
Comments or photos
to improve this page most welcome.
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