Elgin, in the heart of Moray, Scotland, offers an engaging mix of history, architecture, and local legends—all easily explored on foot. What makes Elgin especially appealing for walking tours is its compact size combined with rich stories hiding behind even the most modest buildings. I personally enjoy the High Street Graveyard Walking Tour, which offers a fascinating look at Elgin’s oldest burial ground—an eerie yet insightful experience that reveals local tales of poltergeists and unsolved murders. Meanwhile, the Royal West End Walking Tour stands out for history buffs interested in Elgin’s medieval past, including the site of the destroyed Elgin Castle and connections to King Macbeth.
For visitors keen on exploring Elgin on foot, the options are both diverse and accessible. From uncovering hidden graveyards to exploring royal connections, these tours allow you to see the town through different lenses. Below, we’ll look at two of the best guided walks—each with its own unique focus and charm.
1. Elgin: High Street Graveyard Walking Tour
At just $21 per person, the High Street Graveyard Walking Tour offers a captivating 2-hour exploration of Elgin’s most mysterious site. This tour stands out because it takes you beyond the typical sights, delving into the oldest graveyard in town that most locals overlook. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll learn about Elgin’s architecture, including remnants of covered walkways that once sheltered shoppers from rain—a feature that reflects the town’s practical approach to life in the past.
A highlight is visiting the graveyard’s hidden corners, where you’ll hear stories about unsolved murders and local poltergeists that haunted the area. The guide also explains how you can identify the original location of historic businesses based on stonework—adding a tangible connection to Elgin’s commercial past. Reviewers praise Linda’s storytelling, noting her enthusiasm and deep knowledge. She shares anecdotes that make history come alive, making it an engaging experience for history lovers and curious travelers alike.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a rich mix of history, architecture, and local legends, all wrapped up in a manageable walk. It’s perfect if you enjoy stories that blend the eerie with the educational and don’t mind a slightly spooky twist.
2. Elgin: The Royal West End Walking Tour
For around $21, the Royal West End Walking Tour is a 2-hour guided walk that appeals to those interested in Elgin’s medieval and royal connections. This tour takes you through the west end of town, where you’ll visit the site of Elgin Castle—a once-mighty fortress now lost to history, with only remnants and stories remaining. The guide brings alive the castle’s destruction and its importance in local history.
Another fascinating stop is the well where holy water was collected for Elgin Cathedral, giving a glimpse into the religious significance of the area. The tour also covers King Macbeth’s involvement in Elgin’s past, making it a favorite for those intrigued by Scottish legends and historical figures. You’ll also see one of Elgin’s execution sites, adding a darker but important aspect to the walk.
This tour is highly rated, with visitors appreciating the depth of storytelling and the chance to walk through a more aristocratic and tumultuous period of Elgin’s past. It’s particularly suited for history enthusiasts who want to connect local sights to Scotland’s broader royal and medieval narrative.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in Elgin’s castle ruins, royal connections, and medieval stories, this tour provides a focused look at the town’s past, with plenty of intriguing details.
How to Choose Between These Tours
Choosing the right walking tour depends on your interests and how deep you want to go into Elgin’s past. If eerie stories, legends, and a sense of discovery appeal to you, the High Street Graveyard Tour is a great choice. It offers a unique peek at the town’s oldest burial ground with plenty of storytelling. On the other hand, if your passion is for royal history, medieval castles, and Scottish legends, then the Royal West End Tour will satisfy your curiosity with its focus on Elgin’s regal past.
Consider your walking ability and how much history you want to absorb. Both tours last just 2 hours, making them easy to fit into a day’s sightseeing. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist season, to secure your spot. Think about whether you prefer stories of ghosts and local legends or a more formal historical narrative—whichever you choose, both offer a great way to see Elgin beyond the usual guidebooks.
Final Thoughts
Elgin’s compact size and rich history make it ideal for exploring on foot, and these guided tours unlock the stories behind its streets and landmarks. Whether you’re drawn to the spooky atmosphere of the graveyard or the regal echoes of Elgin Castle and King Macbeth, there’s a walk that will deepen your appreciation of this charming Scottish town.
For travelers who love history and storytelling, the High Street Graveyard Walking Tour is a perfect pick for its mix of architecture and legends. Meanwhile, history buffs interested in medieval Scotland will find the Royal West End Walking Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Elgin’s royal connections. Either way, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these enriching experiences.