Starbucks Elgin: More Than Coffee – A Community Hub in the North

Starbucks Elgin: More Than Coffee – A Community Hub in the North

When you step into Starbucks Elgin, you’re not just walking into a coffee shop—you’re stepping into a warm and welcoming space where community, connection, and great coffee come together.

While Starbucks is a national brand, the Elgin store is all about local spirit. The staff know their customers, conversations flow as freely as the coffee, and every visit feels like catching up with friends.

Oh, and did you know? Starbucks Elgin is the northernmost Starbucks store in the UK! That means you’re officially at the top spot for coffee lovers in the country!

What’s the Must-Try Drink?

Caramel Macchiato – A customer favourite, and if you haven’t tried it yet, consider this your sign!
💡 Not sure what to order? The menu is vast, but the friendly team is always here to help you find your perfect drink.

Want a Starbucks order with personality? Our Lizzie likes a large iced caramel macchiato with 4 shots, whipped cream, and extra drizzle—a serious caffeine fix!

Famous Faces & Fun Moments

At Starbucks Elgin, you never know who you might run into over a latte!

David Guest (appeared on The X Factor) once visited, dressed in a cloak, and ordered a mozzarella panini—a moment as iconic as his outfit.
🎭 Actor Kevin McKidd has also stopped by on multiple occasions—proof that even Hollywood stars love a good cup of Starbucks!

But the best stories? The ones we create together. As the team says:
“Oh gosh, there are way too many stories to tell—so how about you come along and let’s create one together?”

More Than Just Coffee – A Local Favourite

💛 “I love the sense of community we have in Elgin—everyone knows each other.” – CJ, Starbucks Elgin Team

From early morning caffeine fixes to leisurely catch-ups, Starbucks Elgin is more than just a place to grab coffee—it’s a local hub where friendships are made, stories are shared, and community spirit thrives.

 

Visit Starbucks Elgin Today!

📍 On the High Street. Come in, grab your favourite drink, and say hello! 
📢 Try the Caramel Macchiato—trust us, you won’t regret it!

Because at Starbucks Elgin, every visit is more than just a coffee run—it’s an experience. ☕✨

hello(at)elginbid.co.uk

01343 550652         07859 292324

13 Harrow Inn Close, Elgin IV30 1BP

The Little Lunchbox: Fresh, Fun & Full of Flavour!

The Little Lunchbox: Fresh, Fun & Full of Flavour!

When you step into The Little Lunchbox in Elgin, you’re not just grabbing a bite to eat—you’re stepping into a bustling, fun-filled takeaway where fresh, made-to-order meals and friendly service are always on the menu.

With a wide-ranging selection of fresh ingredients, a pick-and-mix menu tailored to your cravings, and a daily specials board updated on Facebook, The Little Lunchbox puts you in charge of your meal—because great food should be as unique as you are!

Why People Love The Little Lunchbox

🍽️ Pick exactly what you want – Choose from the wide range of options behind the glass counter and create a meal that’s just right for you.
📜 Daily specials available – Check the menu board in-store or on Facebook for new and exciting choices.
Fresh, made-to-order goodness – Everything is crafted on the spot, ensuring quality, freshness, and flavour in every bite.
🎥 A favourite of film crews! – Kathleen has even catered for film crews visiting the area, proving that when it comes to great food, word travels fast!

A Takeaway with Personality & Heart

At The Little Lunchbox, it’s not just about food—it’s about creating an experience.

💛 “Seeing my customers happy and returning is the best part of my day.”
🏡 “I love being part of the community and the history of Elgin.”
😂 “Come in and enjoy the chaos and selection of food—we are a fun shop!”

With a vibrant atmosphere, friendly faces, and a welcoming space, The Little Lunchbox is more than just a place to eat—it’s a local favourite where everyone feels at home.

Fresh, Local & Served with a Smile

🔹 All ingredients are specially sourced, ensuring top-quality produce in every meal.
🔹 Secret ingredients? You’ll have to taste them to find out! 😉
🔹 The variety and choice keep customers coming back—no two visits are ever the same!

Whether you’re in the mood for something classic, creative, or completely custom-made, you’ll always find something fresh and delicious here.

Visit The Little Lunchbox Today!

📢 Check out today’s specials on their Facebook page!
💛 Great food, friendly service, and a little bit of chaos—just the way we like it!
📍Find them in Harrow Inn Close for a fantastic lunch today!

hello(at)elginbid.co.uk

01343 550652         07859 292324

13 Harrow Inn Close, Elgin IV30 1BP

British Red Cross Elgin Store: Shopping with a Purpose

British Red Cross Elgin Store: Shopping with a Purpose

After chatting to the lovely team at the British Red Cross, we’ve put together this handy guide for all things BRC. Find out whats hot, how you can shop sustainably for every event and how your support makes a difference worldwide. 

So what’s popular in store right now?

👗Definitely Ladieswear & Homeware – our best-selling items are loved for their excellent quality and affordable prices.
💎 Designer Finds at Bargain Prices – We regularly stock designer pieces, so you never know what gems you’ll uncover!
We Only Give the Best to our Customers – The donations are of high quality, and customers always comment on how well-presented all the stock is.

Why pay full price elsewhere when you can shop sustainably, stylishly, and affordably at the British Red Cross Elgin?

British Red Cross is more than a charity shop, it’s a community hub. Tell us about that.

Volunteers are at the heart of what we do, and at our store, there’s no upper age limit to giving back!

🙌 Our volunteer team includes people from 17 to over 80 years old, because at the Red Cross, we don’t retire—we just keep making a difference!
💛 “It’s not about the wages—working for a charity is about passion, giving back, and knowing you’re helping others.”

If you want to get involved, it’s absolutely worth it. Donate your time, skills, or a few hours of your day—you’ll be part of something truly meaningful.

Any Upcoming Events & Exciting Changes?

📅 We’ve just wrapped up Valentine’s Day, but now we’re getting ready for Easterwatch this space for our next event! There is also so much stock in for Mother’s Day and something suitable for all mothers.
🏡 Exciting news! Our store is getting a brand-new layout soon, and we can’t wait for you to see the transformation!

Your Donations Make a Difference

At the British Red Cross Elgin, every donation helps fund global appeals including:
🌍 Ukraine & Gaza crisis relief
🌪️ Disaster response in Haiti

🛍️ Want to help?
Donate quality items – We accept most things, please enquire for exceptions
Donate your time – Whether it’s a few hours or a half-day, every bit helps!

Why Shop at British Red Cross?

🛍️ High-quality second-hand finds at great prices
♻️ Sustainable shopping—recycle, reuse, repurpose instead of sending items to landfill
💬 Friendly, welcoming team with great banter included!

Visit British Red Cross Elgin Today!

📍 Pop in, browse our latest stock, and support a great cause!
📢 Don’t miss our upcoming Easter event—stay tuned for details!

Because at British Red Cross Elgin, every purchase, every donation, and every hour volunteered helps change lives around the world. ❤️

📍 Find them on South Street!

hello(at)elginbid.co.uk

01343 550652         07859 292324

13 Harrow Inn Close, Elgin IV30 1BP

IT Central: Elgin’s Trusted IT Specialists for 10 Years and Counting!

IT Central: Elgin’s Trusted IT Specialists for 10 Years and Counting!

For the past ten years, IT Central has been at the heart of Elgin’s technology scene, offering expert IT support, software repairs, and custom-built computer solutions. As the only dedicated IT shop in town, they have built a reputation for honest advice, quality service, and life-saving tech support when it matters most.

Whether you need a bespoke computer build, a crucial data recovery, or just some friendly advice on IT systems, IT Central is the go-to place for all things tech.

A Personal Touch to IT Support

Unlike big online retailers or faceless tech support lines, IT Central believes in a personal approach. Their team takes the time to understand each customer’s needs, offering face-to-face consultations and tailored solutions to ensure the best outcome for every individual or business.

“We’re not just here to sell – we’re here to help. We provide trusted advice freely to anyone who walks through our doors. If you have an IT problem or just a question, don’t be afraid to come in and ask!”

Tech Heroes: Going Beyond Repairs

Over the years, IT Central has been behind some incredible customer success stories.

🔹 A customer once brought in a data stick that had been declared ‘unrecoverable.’ It contained over 800 images of old family members, precious memories thought to be lost forever. Thanks to their expertise, every single image was recovered, bringing relief and joy to the customer.

🔹 Another client, mid-audit, faced a nightmare scenario – their entire system crashed, putting their business at risk. The IT Central team stepped in and managed to restore all the necessary files, ensuring their business could proceed without a hitch.

It’s moments like these that make IT Central more than just an IT shop – they’re problem-solvers, life-savers, and local tech heroes.

Common IT Challenges – and Their Advice!

With years of experience, the IT Central team has seen it all – and they’re always happy to share their knowledge. We sat down with Lee from IT Central to get answers to some hot topic questions:

📌 What’s the biggest issue customers face?
“Honestly, most IT issues come down to pilot error – people not fully understanding their systems. That’s why we encourage customers to ask questions before problems arise!”

📌 What’s an easy way to improve online security?
“We always recommend using Two-Factor Authentication (2FA). It’s a simple but powerful way to protect your online accounts, requiring a second step to verify your identity.”

📌 What IT services do you offer?
“Pretty much anything IT-related – if you need it, just ask! We supply and repair computers, software, security systems, and more.”

📌What’s the Best Part of the Job?

For IT Central, the real reward isn’t just fixing computers – it’s the people that we help.

“The best moment? When a system is fixed, and a customer simply says, ‘Thank you.’ You can’t get better than that!”

So whether you’re looking for a custom-built PC, tech advice, or a last-minute IT rescue mission, pop into IT Centralthey’re always happy to help!

📍 Find them at the top of Harrow Inn Close today!

hello(at)elginbid.co.uk

01343 550652         07859 292324

13 Harrow Inn Close, Elgin IV30 1BP

Room to Bloom Florists: Fresh Flowers & Friendly Faces in Elgin

Room to Bloom Florists: Fresh Flowers & Friendly Faces in Elgin

As one of only two florists in Elgin, Room to Bloom has built a loyal customer base by offering beautiful floral arrangements, thoughtful gifts, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating love, honouring a memory, or simply brightening someone’s day, their fresh, high-quality flowers and expert team are here to help.

With fun, knowledgeable staff and prices to suit every budget, Room to Bloom makes sure that everyone can enjoy the beauty of flowers—no matter the occasion.

Flowers for Every Occasion

💐 Seasonal SpecialtiesValentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Weddings, and Funerals—Room to Bloom creates elegant arrangements for all of life’s most meaningful moments.
🎁 More Than Flowers – They also stock a vast range of balloons, cards, and chocolates to make your gift extra special.
💰 Something for Everyone – With prices to suit every budget, you don’t have to spend a fortune to give a thoughtful, fresh floral gift.

A Personal Touch – Create Your Own Design!

Looking for something unique? Room to Bloom specialises in bespoke designs, letting customers pick their own flowers and create one-of-a-kind arrangements. Whether you want a classic bouquet or something completely custom, their team is happy to bring your vision to life.

A Fun & Friendly Florist

At Room to Bloom, it’s not just about flowers—it’s about people.

🌸 Warm & Welcoming Staff – The team is fun, friendly, and knowledgeable, always happy to help customers find the perfect flowers for their needs.
🌟 Great Customer Feedback – Nothing is more rewarding than seeing happy customers return time and time again!
💡 Expert Advice – Whether you need help choosing the right bouquet or tips on flower care, the team is always ready to share their knowledge.

Visit Room to Bloom Today!

📍 Stop by and explore their beautiful range of flowers, gifts, and more!
📢 Follow them for seasonal specials and fresh floral inspiration!

💐 Because every flower tells a story, and at Room to Bloom, they help you share it. 🌸✨

📍 Find them in Thunderton Place and pop in for a bouquet of happiness to brighten your day!

hello(at)elginbid.co.uk

01343 550652         07859 292324

13 Harrow Inn Close, Elgin IV30 1BP

R.G. MacDonald Butchers: Quality Local Meat & Traditional Service Since 1922

R.G. MacDonald Butchers: Quality Local Meat & Traditional Service Since 1922

For over a century, R.G. MacDonald Butchers has been a staple of Elgin, offering premium-quality Scottish meats, expert butchery, and a warm, friendly service. As one of only three traditional butchers in Elgin town centre, they take pride in supplying locally sourced meat from Munro’s of Dingwall, ensuring that every cut is fresh, flavourful, and of the highest standard.

Now run by Paul, the shop continues to blend tradition with innovation, keeping ahead of the game by introducing new meat products and ready-to-cook meals while staying true to the quality service that has defined the business for generations.

 

A Butcher’s Counter Full of Favourites

At R.G. MacDonald Butchers, you’ll find a wide range of fresh, locally sourced meat products, including:
🔥 Best-Sellers: Chicken Tikka meals, stir-fries, Chicken Wellington, burgers, pork sausages, and steak mince.
🌱 Surprising Favourite: Vegetarian specials are gaining popularity—proof that a great butcher caters to all tastes!
🥩 Scottish Classics: If you’re new to traditional Scottish meats, you must try the beef olives or a juicy Scottish steak—a local favourite!

Whether you’re cooking a family meal, planning a barbecue, or just looking for something delicious and easy to prepare, you’ll find something perfect in-store.

A Hidden Surprise in the Shop!

Next time you visit, see if you can spot the famous ‘chopper display’ hidden in the shop! It’s a quirky little feature that makes R.G. MacDonald even more unique.

Keeping the Tradition Alive

R.G. MacDonald is proud to continue the traditions of the previous owner while modernising the business to keep up with changing customer demands. Whether you need classic cuts or contemporary ready-to-cook options, you’ll always find something fresh and exciting here.

Plus, with regular visits from Elgin BID and ongoing shop improvements, R.G. MacDonald remains a cornerstone of the local food scene.

More Than Just a Butcher – A Friendly Guide to Elgin’s Best Produce

At R.G. MacDonald, it’s not just about selling meat – it’s about community. The friendly team is always happy to chat and offer advice – not just on the best cuts of meat but also on where else to find great local produce. Whether it’s a local hotel, a garden centre café, or another independent shop in town, they’re always keen to support fellow businesses and recommend great food spots.

Visit R.G. MacDonald Butchers Today!

Whether you’re looking for the best local Scottish meats, a quick and tasty meal, or just some friendly food advice, pop in today – you’ll be greeted with a smile, expert service, and perhaps even a challenge to find the famous chopper display!

📍 Find them in Lossie Wynd and discover the taste of quality local produce.

hello(at)elginbid.co.uk

01343 550652         07859 292324

13 Harrow Inn Close, Elgin IV30 1BP

Roaring into the Year of the Dragon: Chinese New Year Lion Dance Returns to Elgin!

Roaring into the Year of the Dragon: Chinese New Year Lion Dance Returns to Elgin!

Get ready to welcome luck and prosperity as the Chinese New Year Lion Dance makes its triumphant return to our beloved town! On February 6th, 2024, mark your calendars for an electrifying performance by the world-renowned Glasgow Hong Lok Dragon & Lion Dancing Troupe. The festivities kick off at 12:30 PM sharp at Elgin Plainstones on the High Street.

If you’ve experienced the magic of the Lion Dance before, you know it’s an event like no other. The vibrant colours, rhythmic drumming, and mesmerizing lion movements are guaranteed to leave you in awe. And if you’re new to this tradition, prepare to be dazzled by an ancient art form that’s as captivating as it is culturally rich.

The Chinese New Year Lion Dance isn’t just a performance; it’s a celebration of cultural diversity right here in Elgin. It’s an opportunity to come together as a community and appreciate the beauty of traditions from across the globe.

Legend has it that the Lion Dance brings good luck and wards off evil spirits. So, if you’re looking to kick off the Year of the Dragon on the right foot, there’s no better way to do it than by soaking in the positive energy of this ancient ritual.

Whether you’re young or young at heart, the Lion Dance is a spectacle that appeals to all ages. Bring the whole family, round up your friends, or even gather your colleagues for a lunchtime outing that’s sure to be the talk of the town.

We’re grateful to SHIMCA (the Scottish Highlands & Islands and Moray Chinese Association) for bringing back this cherished tradition to Elgin. Their dedication to promoting cultural exchange enriches our community and makes events like these possible.

There’s something magical about witnessing the Lion Dance in person. It’s an experience that stays with you long after the drums have faded away. So, don’t miss your chance to create unforgettable memories right here in our own backyard.

Calling all schools, nurseries, and businesses: this is your invitation to join in the excitement! Bring your students, little ones, or colleagues along for an educational and enriching cultural experience that’s as entertaining as it is enlightening.

So, what are you waiting for? Clear your schedule, gather your loved ones, and get ready to roar into the Year of the Dragon with the Chinese New Year Lion Dance in Elgin! We’ll see you there!

Remember, the festivities kick off at 12:30 PM on February 6th at Elgin Plainstones on the High Street. Don’t be late – the lions wait for no one!

Spread the word, share the joy, and let’s make this year’s Lion Dance celebration one to remember!

“The Lion can’t wait to come back to see the Children in Elgin”- Monica Lee-Macpherson MBE Chairperson Scottish Highlands & Islands and Moray Chinese Association (SHIMCA)

tina.mainland(at)elginbid.co.uk

01343 550652         07859 292324

13 Harrow Inn Close, Elgin IV30 1BP