Close Attractions

Gordon Castle Walled Garden is one of the largest and oldest walled gardens in Britain, spanning over 8 acres. Located within the grounds of the historic Gordon Castle Estate in Fochabers, it has been lovingly restored to its original splendor. The garden dates back to the 18th century and was part of the impressive grounds of the castle, which once played a key role in Scottish aristocratic life. Today, it is a vibrant, living space where heritage meets modern sustainability.

Visitors can stroll through meticulously maintained flowerbeds and greenhouses, with fruit trees, vegetables, and herbs thriving year-round. The garden is split into multiple sections, including ornamental displays, productive vegetable beds, and tranquil wildflower meadows. Gordon Castle’s “Seed to Table” philosophy means much of the produce grown here ends up on the menu of the Gordon Castle Café, located just outside the garden. Guests can enjoy fresh dishes made from seasonal ingredients, such as homegrown courgette and garden berries.

The estate shop also offers a range of bespoke products, including artisan gin distilled using botanicals from the garden, as well as handmade cosmetics and jams. Visitors can purchase plants or seeds to take a little piece of the Walled Garden home. Regular events like garden tours, workshops, and seasonal fairs ensure there’s something for every interest, while children can enjoy treasure hunts and hands-on activities.

This peaceful haven allows visitors to connect with Scotland’s gardening heritage while enjoying a relaxing escape amidst stunning floral landscapes. Whether you’re a keen horticulturist or simply looking for a tranquil retreat, Gordon Castle Walled Garden is an unmissable destination.

Outdoor enthusiasts flock to the Moray Monster Trails, a network of adrenaline-pumping mountain bike routes around Fochabers. Nestled in Ordiequish Forest, the trails cater to cyclists of all skill levels, with paths ranging from gentle family-friendly tracks to challenging downhill runs for experienced riders.

The trails are divided into color-coded levels, each presenting unique challenges. For beginners and families, the Green Trail offers gentle inclines and scenic woodland views. The more adventurous can tackle the Blue and Red Trails, featuring sharp bends, steep descents, and technical terrain. For thrill-seekers, the Black Trail is the ultimate test, with jumps, drops, and narrow singletracks.

Throughout the ride, cyclists are treated to stunning views of the River Spey and surrounding countryside. Wildlife lovers may spot deer, red squirrels, and birds of prey while exploring the forests. Trail signage ensures safe navigation, and facilities like bike rental shops, picnic spots, and parking make the trails accessible for day trips.

In addition to biking, the Moray Monster Trails offer walking and hiking options, making them perfect for anyone who loves the great outdoors. Families with young children can enjoy a slower-paced exploration of the woods, where nature trails and quiet paths provide a peaceful retreat.

The Moray Monster Trails highlight the natural beauty of Moray while offering an exhilarating adventure for riders of all abilities.

The Fochabers Heritage Museum is a hidden gem for history lovers, located in a historic 18th-century schoolhouse on the High Street. Run entirely by dedicated volunteers, this small but engaging museum showcases the history, culture, and people of Fochabers and its surrounding areas.

Inside, visitors are greeted by exhibits filled with artifacts, photographs, and personal stories that highlight life in Fochabers over the centuries. From Victorian-era household items to agricultural tools, each piece provides insight into the lives of past generations. One of the museum's key exhibits focuses on the construction of the Spey Viaduct, a significant engineering achievement that once connected Moray to the rest of Scotland.

A dedicated section explores the village’s connection to Gordon Castle and its aristocratic history, including tales of the Gordon family. Visitors can also learn about the village’s industries, such as fishing on the River Spey and the thriving whisky trade, with displays showcasing distillery memorabilia and local bottlings.

The museum is family-friendly, with interactive displays and guided tours that bring Fochabers’ stories to life. Its charm lies in the warmth of its volunteers, who are always eager to share local tales, making it a personal and authentic experience for all.

Situated just a short drive from Fochabers, the Spey Bay Wildlife Reserve is a haven for nature lovers. Spanning the mouth of the River Spey, where the river meets the Moray Firth, this reserve is home to a wealth of wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins, otters, and numerous bird species.

Managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust, Spey Bay is famous for its dolphin-watching opportunities. The waters of the Moray Firth are home to one of the largest populations of bottlenose dolphins in Europe, and visitors can often see these playful creatures leaping from the shoreline. For birdwatchers, the estuary provides nesting grounds for oystercatchers, curlews, and terns.

The area also boasts the Scottish Dolphin Centre, where interactive exhibits educate visitors about marine conservation efforts. Guided wildlife walks and riverbank trails allow visitors to explore the reserve while learning about its delicate ecosystem. Families can enjoy treasure hunts, nature crafts, and educational programs tailored to young explorers.

Spey Bay combines stunning natural landscapes with extraordinary wildlife encounters, making it an essential stop for visitors.

The Baxters Highland Village in Fochabers offers a unique blend of retail, food, and history, all celebrating the Baxters family’s culinary heritage. Founded in 1868, Baxters is a world-renowned food brand famous for its soups, preserves, and sauces.

Visitors can tour the historic Baxters factory shop, filled with their iconic products and other Scottish delicacies. The Highland Village also features a traditional tearoom, where guests can savor fresh-baked goods, sandwiches, and Baxters soups in a warm, welcoming setting. Exhibits detail the history of the Baxters brand, from its humble beginnings to its global success.

Located in the heart of Fochabers, Gordon Chapel is an architectural and cultural treasure. Built in 1834, this Episcopal church is best known for its stunning collection of stained glass windows, designed by the renowned artist Charles Kempe. Each window tells a biblical story, filling the chapel with vibrant colors as sunlight filters through.

Visitors can admire the intricate craftsmanship while learning about the chapel's history, which remains an active place of worship and community gatherings. Guided tours and events are frequently held, offering a peaceful, enriching experience.