Please note that while this page will remain here for a while, our leisure and tourism content is now on a separate site Visit Forres, where you will find much more detail on things to see and do in the Forres area, including Findhorn, Rafford, Kinloss, Dunphail etc. You might also want to download our leisure and tourism app, which gives you all the information you’ll need in a handy little guide.
Where is Forres?
Forres is a town and former royal burgh in the north-east of Scotland on the Moray coast, approximately 25 miles (40 km) northeast of Inverness and 12 miles (19 km) from Elgin and 80 miles from Aberdeen.
It is a small town with a population of around 10,000, plus an additional 6000 in the surrounding villages of Kinloss, Findhorn, Rafford, Dunphail, Dyke and Kintessack.
It is on the main A96 road and rail route from Inverness to Aberdeen (80 miles), and at the western edge of the Moray County boundary.
Flower of Scotland
The former Royal burgh is perhaps most famous for its colourful floral displays, links to Macbeth and as the birthplace of Baronet Sir Alexander Grant, the inventor of the digestive biscuit. The colourful beds of Forres in Bloom repeatedly win accolades and the volunteers have been given the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Services, for their tireless efforts to keep the town looking beautiful.
And the reference to Flower of Scotland doesn’t just refer to the town’s beautiful gardens. The song, largely considered our unofficial national anthem, was penned by Roy Williamson of the Corries while he stayed in Forres. How coincidental that the town has become synonymous with flowers.
Macbeth
King Macbeth lived here, and may have occupied the castle once situated on the hill at the west end of town. He was epitomised in the Shakespeare’s play of the same name, but the bard’s portrayal of the king was not the good man he is thought to have been in reality.
But there’s more to this Moray town than flowerbeds and Shakespeare.
It’s not by chance that Moray has been included in the top ten UK destinations, or that within this region Forres continues to be the jewel in the county crown.
History
Forres is steeped in history, from the ancient forts on Cluny Hill, becoming a Royal burgh in 1153, being the home of Macbeth who had his Castle on the High Street, to more modern times, such as the Tolbooth and Nelson’s Tower.
With a rich culture and a heritage rooted
Others say it is the warmth of our people or our willingness to always stop and have a ‘blether’ on the High Street or perhaps in a coffee shop. Whatever the reason, once you have visited we know you will keep coming back time and time again
Romance or adventure?
It’s not just the romantics we attract to our shores as other adventures wait right on your doorstep for you or for your whole family. White water rafting, wind surfing, climbing, stalking, fishing and shooting all await those seeking the high adventure.
For those of us who are a little more laid back or perhaps with younger children there are miles upon miles of unspoiled beaches, rambling forest trails, beautiful parks and lots of open space to enjoy all within a few minutes of Forres.
Top this off with museums, galleries, theatre, festivals, international events and a wide range of wonderful accommodation to meet every need and you can see why we are proud to say Forres has something for everyone.
To help you enjoy your stay with us, we have brought together all of our visitor information in one place. Forres Local offers the latest in local and community news, community and visitor events and information and business contacts.
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