Elgin Cathedral

About this place

Ruined medieval cathedral once known as the 'Lantern of the North'.

Once described as the Lantern of the North for its beauty, Elgin Cathedral is now a dramatic ruin, having been burned in 1390 by Alexander Stewart, Earl of Buchan - better known as the Wolf of Badenoch - during a dispute with the church. Enough survives, including the unusual octagonal chapter house, to give a real sense of how grand the building once was, and climbing what remains of the towers rewards visitors with views over the town. Historic Environment Scotland maintains the site, with information boards helping bring the story to life for children. There's an admission charge, and the uneven stonework underfoot makes it less suited to buggies.

Make a day of it — within 5km