Elgin - Cathedral & Closes
Elgin - Cathedral & Closes
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Detective Mystery Trail
Detective
Mystery
2 Hours
2.25 miles
Not
Accessible
Not
Accessible
Dog
Friendly
The Mysterious Disappearance of Ebenezer MacMillan
Elgin residents were shocked and saddened to learn of the untimely demise of local photographer, Ebenezer MacMillan. But things took a strange turn when it was revealed that he had collected a whole album of embarrassing photos of locals pulling funny faces, eyes closed, showing their double chins, and more. Local police suspect foul play, especially since MacMillan had threatened to publish some of these photos as part of his latest exhibition, Ugly Elgins. Now, Chief Inspector Cam O'Rare is seeking the help of the public to solve this mystery. Are YOU up for the challenge?
Investigation Through Elgin's Cathedral & Closes
Get ready for a fun-filled day out with family and friends as you explore the charming town of Elgin on this self-guided detective mystery themed Treasure Trail. Starting at the impressive Elgin Cathedral, your adventure will take you through historic closes and past character cottages as you follow the Trail route. Keep your eyes peeled-there are surprises around every corner as you make your way up Ladyhill to the monument before returning to the start point.
Elgin is counting on YOU! Can you eliminate the suspects and solve the case?
The Details
- A Detective Mystery themed walking Treasure Trail around Elgin
- Ideal for discovering more about where you live or exploring somewhere new
- Trails are done in your own time at your own pace
- This Trail is approximately 2.25 miles long and takes 2 hours to complete
- This Trail is suitable for all ages from 6 - 106 (no children necessary!)
- One Trail booklet is enough for 4-5 people
- Chance to win some real Treasure! All correct answers are entered into the monthly £100 prize draw
- Circular loop Trail
- Mobile phone text service for clue answers if you get stuck, ensuring that no mystery goes unsolved
- This Trail can be sent to you in the post or downloaded today for instant Trailing fun!
Trail Location
Trail Location
The Elgin Treasure Trail starts at:
North College Street
Elgin
Moray
Aberdeenshire
IV30 1HQ
Scotland
Mini Detective Club
Mini Detective Club
We have three super duper themed Clubs for your child to enjoy as part of their Treasure Trail experience.
Perfect for 4-8 year olds, the concept behind the Clubs is that your child will get a bundle of goodies to excite
them about their forthcoming Trail experience, something to keep them entertained whilst travelling to and from
the Trail, and something to be given on completion of the Trail as a keepsake.
Show more »
What is a Treasure Trail?
What is a Treasure Trail?
Before You Set Off
Before You Set Off
Navigating The Route
This is a circular Detective Mystery through Elgin's historic centre, with sleuths following pavements, narrow closes, town streets and pathways as they investigate the suspicious circumstances surrounding photographer Ebenezer MacMillan's final exhibition.
The investigation explores several of Elgin's medieval closes and includes a climb up Ladyhill to the monument. The route involves very steep steps and some steep hills, making it unsuitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Take extra care on the steep steps leading up Ladyhill, particularly in wet weather when surfaces may become slippery.
Getting There
By car:
Your investigation begins at Elgin Cathedral, King Street (IV30 1HU). There is paid on-street parking near the cathedral. If spaces are limited, Lossie Wynd Car Park (IV30 1QB) beside Cooper Park is recommended.
By public transport:
Elgin is well served by both bus and rail services. Elgin railway station is around a 10-minute walk from the start point, making public transport a convenient option for reaching the investigation zone.
Need the Loo?
Even top detectives need a comfort break during a long case! Public toilets can be found in Cooper Park near the start of the investigation. Elgin also operates a Comfort Scheme, where participating businesses allow public use of their facilities without requiring a purchase. Keep an eye out for Comfort Scheme signs as you investigate around the High Street.
Bring Your Furry Sidekicks
Four-legged detectives are welcome on the case 🐾 Most of the investigation takes place on town streets and public paths, making it suitable for canine companions on leads.
Food & Drink Stops
Cracking this case is hungry work! There are plenty of cafés, shops and places to grab refreshments throughout Elgin town centre, so detectives will have no trouble finding supplies during their investigation.
Whether you're after a quick snack, a sit-down lunch or somewhere to compare suspect notes, you'll find plenty of options along the route.
Want to Make a Day of It?
Elgin Cathedral and the Biblical Garden
The magnificent cathedral ruins are worth exploring before or after your investigation. If you're returning to the start at the end of the case, there's also an optional visit to the nearby Biblical Garden, a peaceful spot filled with plants and sculptures inspired by stories from the Bible.
Medieval Closes and Hidden Corners
Much of the Trail explores Elgin's historic closes and wynds, revealing tucked-away corners that many visitors pass by without noticing.
Cooper Park and the River Lossie
Just beside the start point, Cooper Park offers attractive walks, open green space and a chance to unwind after a demanding investigation. It's an ideal place to review the evidence and celebrate another case solved.
