DIARY DATES

and recreational facilities. There are major supermarkets and a good selection of independent and high street shops, along with a health centre, and by way of a bonus, all designated car parks in Forres are free and signposted from the High Street.

Those looking to buy a home in Forres will find there are a wide variety of property types on offer including several new ones which are being built as well as older properties which come with the benefit of established gardens.

• Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, May 3-7.

• Gordon Castle Highland Games and Country Fair, Fochabers, May 20.

• The Moray Walking Festival, June 15-24.

• Burgie Horse Trials, Burgie by Forres, June 16-17.

• European Pipe Band Championships, Forres, June 30.

For those looking to move to a Moray town with good amenities, Buckie is a popular choice. It’s the third-largest town in the area and always busy, with plenty going on.

Take a walk through the town centre and you’ll find a host of good, local specialist shops including quality bakeries, gift shops, furniture, fashion and hardware stores, as well as high street stores, plus there’s lots of good cafes and restaurants.

The main focal point of the town is the harbour, and fish landed here often end up on dinner plates in top restaurants around the world. Locals are spoiled for choice with fish merchants offering a wonderful selection of really fresh seafood for sale at a fraction of the price you’d be expected to pay in a restaurant.

Along with a harbour and marina, Buckie’s fa-

Castle Bridge in the ancient royal burgh of Forres