Findhorn Village tours

Findhorn village dates from 1702, but there was an earlier settlement inundated by tidal waters.

Findhorn’s importance in the 18th and early 19th centuries as the entrepot for Forres and Nairn cannot be over-emphasised, the village owned by the Roses of Kilravock (see Quay Cottage and Kilravock) from the late 1600s to 1776 when sold to the Munros of Novar, Ross-shire. Sea and salmon fishing have also played a great part in the economy of the village.

The houses fronting the bay and harbour originate as sea captains’ and merchant dwellings, including the premises occupied by the Royal Findhorn Yacht Club, mostly dating from the 18th century and having windows in the seaward gables, commanding the coming and going of shipping. The fishertown of single-storey cottages (some now raised to two storeys) is to the east, linked to the shore by numerous foot paths or ‘lanes’ (see above).

Most of the earlier buildings are individually Listed (the icehouse also Scheduled) and the greater part of the village included within an Outstanding Conservation Area, all designated by Historic Scotland.

Fishing, particularly salmon fishing, has played a great part in the village economy: the salmon fishing era vividly interpreted by the Heritage Centre within one of the icehouses close to the former salmon green (for drying nets on poles) and former fishhouse (where salmon were prepared for sale and export).

During Doors Open Day there will be guided walks through the ’lanes’ leaving at regular intervals from the James Milne Institute. Tours will look at the many fascinating buildings and structures in Findhorn including the harbour, sailor's cottages and sites relating to the fishing industry, which was so important to this area.

Car parking is difficult in the village centre. If you need to park, please park near the Heritage Centre.

Parking, public toilets and refreshments will be available within both settlements. The finalised leaflets will include details of these, and of disabled access. Hourly bus service Stagecoach Bluebird 336 Forres/Findhorn/Roseisle/Elgin/Rothes/Aberlour/Dufftown.

Notice of availability of leaflets will be posted on this website and that of the local organisers, www.elginmuseum.org.uk