Moray Memories: Queen Elizabeth II’s first official visit to Moray in 1982

Published: 19:00, 28 February 2025

Elgin.Queen Elizabeth II visits Moray on Saturday July 3rd and Monday July 5th 1982. Picture: The Northern Scot archive.

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Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip embarked on their first official visit to Moray in early July 1982. Their three-day tour, which took place from Saturday, July 3rd to Monday, July 5th, saw them visit several towns on their visit, - drawing large crowds keen to catch a glimpse of the royal couple.

The visit commenced on Saturday with stops in Kinloss, Forres, Alves, Hopeman, Burghead and Lossiemouth. A highlight of the day was the Highland Games at Grant Park in Forres, where approximately 6,000 spectators gathered despite the ‘dreich’ weather.

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On Monday, July 5th, the Queen and Prince Philip continued their tour with visits to Buckie, Baxters and Elgin. One of the big engagements of the day was their visit to the shipyards in Buckie, acknowledging the region’s maritime industry.

The visit was just weeks after the birth of their grandson, Prince William, which saw some well-wishers call out remarks such as ‘You’re looking fine, grandad!’ and ‘How’s the baby?’

Forres Highland Games.Queen Elizabeth II visits Moray on Saturday July 3rd and Monday July 5th 1982. Picture: The Northern Scot archive.

Lossiemouth.Queen Elizabeth II visits Moray on Saturday July 3rd and Monday July 5th 1982. Picture: The Northern Scot archive.

Buckie.Queen Elizabeth II visits Moray on Saturday July 3rd and Monday July 5th 1982. Picture: The Northern Scot archive.

Six-year-old Laura Gordon-Duff. Queen Elizabeth II visits Moray on Saturday July 3rd and Monday July 5th 1982. Picture: The Northern Scot archive.

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