The sun has started making the odd appearance in Moray – and I don’t know about you, but even the slightest bit of heat makes me crave ice cream.
Luckily, parlours are not scarce across the region. In fact, a lot of them serve the finest ice cream that I’ve had the pleasure of trying.
Whether you adore a scoop or two of traditional favourites such as raspberry ripple, vanilla or rum and raisin, or tend to opt for weird and wonderful flavours, I’ve got you covered with this list.
Here are the top places to visit for ice cream in Elgin and the surrounding areas.
Ice Cream Cabin, Buckie
Simpsons Ice Cream is a family-run business that supplies a line-up of retail outlets, restaurants, hotels and parlours around the north of Scotland with frozen desserts.
In November, the team – headed by Richard Simpson – opened the doors to the firm’s parlour in Buckie, known as the Ice Cream Cabin.
You’ll find milkshakes, home bakes and, of course, a range of ice cream flavours by the well-loved brand. Scottish tablet is my personal favourite.
Address: 16 Cluny Square, Buckie AB56 1HA
Scribbles, Elgin
If sundaes are up your street, then Scribbles will become your favourite foodie pitstop on a hot day.
The independent restaurant has offered a range of mouth-watering sundaes in the past including chocolate fudge brownie, cherry Bakewell, and mint cookie crunch.
And yes, you can also secure a knickerbocker glory. Who could say no to that?
Address: 152-154 High Street, Elgin IV30 1BD
Fochabers Ice Cream Parlour, Fochabers
Fochabers Ice Cream Parlour has cemented itself as a go-to destination in Moray. It sells home bakes, cakes, sundaes, barista coffees, sorbets and more.
However, it’s (of course) the ice cream that draws in the biggest crowds as owner Sheila Gray thrives off of making both traditional and unique flavours.
They include Battenberg, stroopwafel, Red Bull, haggis, cornflake milk, buttery and salted caramel, and pancake and maple syrup.
Address: 33-35 High Street, Fochabers IV32 7DX
Stew ‘n’ Drew’s, Hopeman
Stew ‘n’ Drew’s is another prime example of a Moray business that knows how to deliver wacky, yet tasty ice cream flavours.
However, it’s traditional options should also be celebrated. A scoop or two of their raspberry ripple will have my name on it when I next stop by. I’ve heard fantastic things.
Address: 25 Harbour Street, Hopeman, Elgin IV30 5SJ
The Ashvale, Elgin
Widely known for its mammoth-sized dish The Ashvale Whale (a one-pound haddock fillet), the desserts at the Ashvale are also something to get excited about.
For just £5.95, you can opt for a knickerbocker glory or three scoops of either vanilla, chocolate or strawberry ice cream.
Sticky toffee pudding, cheesecake, chocolate fudge cake and caramel apple pie also feature on the list, and they are all served with ice cream. Result.
Address: 11 Moss Street, Elgin IV30 1LU
The Captain’s Parlour, Findhorn
When it comes to The Captain’s Parlour, you’ll bag a dessert that tastes delicious and looks the part.
The food and drink spot serves everything from bubble tea, acai bowls and milkshakes to sundaes, crepes and gelato (supplied by Miele’s Gelateria).
With weekly specials always on the go, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Address: Findhorn, Forres IV36 3YE
The Beach Hut, Lossiemouth
At Lossiemouth’s The Beach Hut, you can choose from their ‘trio of ice cream’ (featuring strawberry, chocolate and vanilla flavours) pudding or a Mr Whippy.
I can think of fewer better spots to visit for the frozen treat given the cafe’s incredible, far-reaching views. Be sure to soak them up along the beachfront before, during or after you enjoy your dessert.
Address: West Beach, Stotfield Road, Lossiemouth IV31 6QS
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