Elgin, Moray

Elgin, the home of our head office, where we acquired & let out our first property & where we continue to grow.

Elgin's history stretches back to a long time ago, and contains many interesting events.  In 1040 MacBeth's army defeated and killed Duncan I near Elgin, it was first recorded in a charter of David I in 1151.   During David's reign a castle was built at the top of Ladyhill, and in 1224 Alexander II granted land for the construction of a new cathedral to Andrew Bishop of Moray.

Elgin Cathedral was completed around 1242 & was referred to The Lantern of the North.  Over the century's the cathedral was damaged by fires and restored & enlarged, until finally it was allowed to fall into ruin.

Elgin grew during the 19th century, sons and daughters of Elgin who had made their fortunes in the Empire endowed and bequeathed money for various buildings and projects.  These included Dr Gray's Hospital, St Giles Church & The Anderson Institute.

A railway line between Lossiemouth and Elgin was opened in 1852, Elgin had always relied on Lossiemouth harbour to bring goods in by sea, and this allowed quicker and easier transport into town, becoming important economically for Elgin.  The line was later extended South to Craigellachie where it joined the Strathspey Railway (now The Speyside Way).

In the 20th century Elgin grew to the point that Bishopmill & New Elgin (two neighbouring villages) were encompassed by the town.  Elgin today has a population of over 25,000 people.

Food, drink & construction are the main areas of employment in the town, as well as Moray Council who's head office is located in Elgin.