Millbuies Country Park

A favoured spot when I was a child, Millbuies Country Park (or just known locally as Millbuies) is a beautiful place to go for a walk and not that far from the capital of Moray - Elgin - and the Glen Elgin Distillery. The main draw of the park is Millbuies Loch which is a man-made 16-acre fishery loch, surrounded by steep hills with larch and conifer trees reflecting in the tranquil waters.

Millbuies Loch

The loch was created by the original landowners by damming streams to create angling opportunities, the site was taken over by the Moray Council in 1975 when it was gifted to Elgin. Fishing is now open to the public.

The Walk at Millbuies

Walking the lochside route is a fairly short circular route at 1.75 miles and could probably be done in 45 minutes at a leisurely pace. The walk is very sheltered with trees and high loch sides, the paths are gravel and there are some steps. Unfortunately, the route is not suitable for wheelchairs.

Wildlife & Flowers

There is a wide variety of wildlife at Millbuies and Red squirrels are frequently seen jumping from the trees. Other inhabitants include roe deer, badgers, rabbits and the elusive pine martin. On the water swans, moorhens, mallard ducks go about their business. If you are very lucky you can even watch Ospreys hunting for fish. I have often seen dragonflies here on many occasions. Along the well-trodden path are many plants, such as rhododendrons and azaleas many of which have information boards if they catch your interest.

Photography

Millbuies is the perfect place for photography with a wide variety of subject matter on offer. Autumn is one of the best times to visit with all the red and yellow leaves reflecting in the water.

Fishing

The loch is about 10-20ft deep in areas and definitely a hidden gem for fly fishers in Moray / Scotland. Bank fishing is strictly disallowed, boats are available but must be pre-booked in advance with keys being collected at the car park office. The fish stock contained in the loch includes Blues, Wild Brown Trout and Rainbow.

Car Park & Facilities

The dedicated free car park on-site at Millbuies is of a good size and includes an office, picnic benches and toilets.

FAQs

How do I get to Millbuies?

If you are coming from Elgin, follow the A941 south, you will see a sign marked Millbuies 1/2 mile on the left. Turn left, then left again onto the minor road. Look for the two signs for Millbuies, a green trout fishery sign, and the white site. Follow this road a short distance and turn left into the car park.

How can I book fishing at Millbuies?

Call 07960143498 or email millbuies15@yahoo.com.

Is there public transport to Millbuies?

You can catch a bus from Elgin to Fogwatt, and then it is a 10 - 15 minute walk south to Millbuies.

Are there any other attractions near Millbuies?

Elgin Cathedral, Duffus Castle, Auchindoun Castle and the many distilleries are well worth a visit.

Conclusion

Millbuies is the perfect place for a quick walk in nature only a stone's throw from the biggest settlement in Moray. Great for a short trip with the kids and the perfect location for a picnic, or a mini escape on your lunch hour.  Loch an Bo, near Lhanbryde, is another lochside walk well worth checking out in Moray.