Forres, an ancient Royal Burgh Town, is situated in the North of Scotland on the Moray Coast and is well known for its award wining floral sculptures and is steeped in local history and traditions. The Royal Burgh of Forres is thought to be the "Varris" shown on maps by Ptolemy almost 2,000 years ago. There was a Royal Castle here from at least 900AD and in around 1140AD it became a Royal Burgh. Royal Burghs were founded by the Kings of the 12th century to encourage trade and economic improvement. Nelson's Tower was built in 1806 to commemorate Admiral Lord Nelson and his victory at Trafalgar. It gives a superb view of Forres, Findhorn Bay and the Moray Firth. Admission is free. Opening Hours, May to September - 2.00pm - 4.00pm. Closed Mondays.
An ancient pictish standing stone - Sueno's Stone stands 23 feet high. It was most likely erected just before the start of this millennium, possibly by Kenneth Mac Alpin - first king of the Scots after he defeated the kings of the seven northern Pictish kingdoms. Sadly, it has had to be encased in an armoured glass cover to prevent erosion and damage. Admission is free, open all year. The Tolbooth. Work on the present day tolbooth began in 1838 but there has been a Tolbooth on this site since the twelfth century. The principal purpose of the Tolbooth throughout its history has been as a prison, courtroom, council chamber, collection office, treasury and archive storage. It is now only used for rent collection and to host Community Council meetings. Founded in 1871, the museum displays objects relating to Forres including musical instruments and memorabilia belonging to the late Roy Williamson of the Corries. Opening hours, May to September - 10.00 to 17.00 Monday to Saturday. Restricted opening in winter, 11-13.00 and 14.00 to 16.00. Admission is free. Telephone: 01309 67370.
On the site of Forres Castle stands Thomson Monument, an obelisk commemorating James Thomson, who served as a surgeon in the Crimea and saved many lives. Although born in Cromarty the townsfolk, at that time, did not wish to have the monument placed there so it was erected in Forres. Made of granite, the monument stands some 50 feet tall. Witch's Stone, Victoria Road. This stone, thought to date from Pictish times and to have been used as an alter to the Sun God, marks the resting place of one of three barrels in which three witches were rolled down Cluny Hill.
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The Royal Burgh of Forres - This site is produced by a local man, Chris Bridgeford, and does not receive any funding. It is produced free for the good of the Town.
