Elgin

Elgin in Aberdeenshire and Moray has a population of about 21,000 people.

From here it's roughly 440 miles (708 kilometers) to the south to London and 120 miles (193 kilometers) to the south to Edinburgh.

Some of the most photographed historical sites of the area are the places of worship that have faithfully stood here for generations. The Pluscarden Abbey and the Elgin Cathedral are two of Elgin’s most popular examples. Enjoy the reverential atmosphere at these remarkable places.

Sometimes awe-inspiring, sometimes romantic, the castles and other defensive structures in this part of the world are always excellent to tour. When you see the fairytale-like outer defenses of the Duffus Castle, it's easy to picture how noblemen used to battle for this region.

Once the private domain of the city’s elite families, today, the gates to Elgin’s most stately home are open to everyone. The Spynie Palace is an evocative place which brings the area’s rich cultural and social history vividly back to life.

If you’ve still got time to spare after visiting all the great attractions in Elgin, make sure you pop over to the Burghead Visitor Centre.