Living in Forres – The Ultimate Moving Guide

Are you thinking of living in Forres but want to know a bit more about the area before making your final decision?

If you’re looking for a move that promises a peaceful environment rich with culture, the Morayshire town of Forres might just be your ideal new home.

Known for its stunning scenery, arts scene, award-winning parks, and a strong sense of community, this town has long attracted both families and retirees seeking a balanced lifestyle.

With its proximity to the Moray Coast and the Cairngorms, outdoor enthusiasts can revel in hiking, cycling, and coastal adventures.

Forres is also a haven for history buffs, boasting ancient structures like Sueno’s Stone and impressive floral displays at Grant Park.

But beyond the picturesque setting, Forres offers practical benefits like reputable schools, strong transport links, and a growing local economy.

Our ultimate moving guide will walk you through everything you need to know before relocating.

From housing and education to local amenities, ensuring you are fully armed with all the relevant information you need about this wonderful location

Find Your New Home in Forres

There are some amazing properties you could call home in Forres.

The housing market in Forres is wonderfully diverse, catering to a wide range of budgets and preferences.

From charming historic stone cottages brimming with character to sleek, modern family homes equipped with all the latest amenities, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste.

Many properties come with spacious gardens and offer stunning views of the picturesque landscape, further enhancing their appeal.

House prices in Forres are generally lower than those in larger Scottish cities like Edinburgh or Aberdeen, and significantly more affordable than many areas south of the border.

It’s rare to find towns in the UK where four-bedroom properties start at around £140,000, but in Forres, this is a delightful reality.

There are also several remarkably low-priced homes on the market that, while requiring some modernisation, represent excellent value for money—perfect for those looking to put their own stamp on a property.

The town’s quiet, safe neighbourhoods are absolutely perfect for families and retirees, offering a peaceful environment without sacrificing community spirit.

For those seeking rental options, Forres provides numerous well-maintained flats and family homes, making it suitable for both short-term and long-term residents.

Whether you’re looking to buy your dream home or find a comfortable rental, Forres has plenty to offer.

To explore the housing options available, local estate agents such as R&R Urquhart offer comprehensive listings and personalised assistance.

They can guide you through the process, ensuring you find a property that perfectly matches your needs and desires.

Living in Forres not only provides you with a home but also immerses you in a vibrant community and a high quality of life amidst beautiful surroundings.

It’s a place where you can truly feel at home!

Education in Forres

Students in Forres are well provided for.

For families, access to quality education is essential.

Forres provides a robust educational landscape supported by the Moray Council, which oversees education in Morayshire.

Forres Academy serves as the main secondary school and is well-regarded for its broad curriculum, modern facilities, and dedicated teaching staff.

The area is also home to notable primary schools such as Anderson’s Primary School and Applegrove Primary School, both fostering a nurturing environment and holistic educational approach.

Early childhood education is also available at various nurseries that ensure young children are well-prepared for their school journey.

Enrolling your child into a Scottish school is done through the Moray Council’s online platform or by contacting the schools directly to guide parents through registration and placement procedures.

More information can be found on the Moray Council’s Education Page.

For parents new to Scotland, the education system is different from the rest of the UK.

To find out in more detail about the differences between the two, take time to visit the Kings Education for Life website where you will find a helpful guide on the matter.

Local Amenities and Shopping

You’ll find some wonderful places to enjoy a spot of shopping in the region.

Forres proudly offers a rich array of local amenities and a vibrant shopping scene that caters to the needs of its residents.

The town’s High Street is adorned with charming independent shops, cosy cafés, and essential services, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all.

Here, you’ll discover unique boutiques, artisan bakeries, and traditional Scottish craft shops that add distinctive character to your shopping experience.

Whether you’re searching for a special gift or indulging in freshly baked goods, the local businesses provide a personal touch that’s hard to find elsewhere.

For your everyday essentials and larger grocery shops, major supermarkets such as Tesco and Lidl are conveniently located within the town, ensuring that all your practical needs are met without the need to travel far.

Additionally, Forres hosts a regular farmers’ market, where you can purchase fresh, locally sourced produce and handcrafted goods.

This lively market not only supports local farmers and artisans but also serves as a social hub where residents and visitors alike can mingle and enjoy the community spirit.

For those seeking a wider variety of shopping options, Elgin is just a short drive away.

Here, you’ll find larger retail centres like Elgin Retail Park, offering a broader selection of high-street brands and services.

With these amenities, Forres strikes a perfect balance between modern convenience and local charm, ensuring that all its residents’ needs are catered for.

Whether you’re strolling along the historic streets, enjoying a coffee in a quaint café, or stocking up on essentials, living in Forres provides a delightful and fulfilling experience.

Outdoor and Recreational Activities

There are simply so many wonderful outdoors areas in and around Forres.

A haven for outdoor lovers Forres offers a plethora of recreational activities that appeal to all ages, budgets and abilities.

Grant Park, renowned for its award-winning floral displays, serves as a hub for community events and leisurely walks.

The nearby Findhorn Bay is perfect for kayaking, birdwatching, and scenic beach strolls.

Hiking enthusiasts can explore the Dava Way, a serene 24-mile path that connects Forres to Grantown-on-Spey, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful hiking experience.

Forres also supports various sports clubs, including Forres Mechanics Football Club and Forres Harriers for running enthusiasts.

These outdoor activities, paired with well-maintained parks and playgrounds, ensure residents of Forres lead an active, fulfilling lifestyle immersed in nature.

Transport Links

You may be surprised by the transport links available in Forres.

Despite its rural charm, Forres is well-connected through a robust network of transport options.

The Forres railway station offers regular services to major cities like Inverness and Aberdeen, making it a feasible commuting town for those working in larger urban centres.

The station’s recent upgrades have made train travel more efficient and comfortable.

For road travel, the nearby A96 connects Forres directly to Inverness and Aberdeen, facilitating quick access to the wider region.

Bus services are also reliable, with routes that serve both local and regional destinations.

Additionally, Inverness Airport, located approximately 30 minutes by car, provides domestic flights and some international connections, enhancing travel options for residents.

These transport facilities make Forres an accessible location for both work and leisure travel.

Culture and Community

Be sure to soak up the wonderful culture on offer in the region.

Forres has a colourful cultural heritage and an active community spirit, making it more than just a place to live, it’s a place to belong.

The town boasts an active arts scene, highlighted by venues like The Tolbooth, which hosts concerts, art exhibitions, and cultural workshops throughout the year.

The community’s calendar is packed with annual events such as the Forres Highland Games and the Findhorn Bay Festival, bringing locals together to celebrate their heritage and creativity.

The town also has numerous clubs and societies for various interests, from gardening to historical reenactments, ensuring that newcomers can easily integrate and build connections.

With a friendly, welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, Forres fosters a sense of belonging that newcomers quickly come to appreciate.

Employment and Job Opportunities

Forres offers jobs in a range of different sectors.

Employment opportunities in Forres are remarkably diverse, with key sectors including tourism, retail, and local government.

The town’s picturesque setting and strong community spirit attract visitors from near and far, supporting jobs in hospitality and tourism-related businesses.

Forres is home to a variety of local enterprises and independent shops that frequently have openings in retail and customer service.

The High Street offers a friendly environment for those looking to work in a close-knit community.

The nearby RAF Lossiemouth and Kinloss Barracks also provide civilian roles and contractor positions, presenting unique opportunities to work alongside the military community.

Moray’s economic initiatives are actively boosting employment by supporting small businesses and start-ups.

This makes Forres an attractive location for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote workers seeking a supportive environment and excellent quality of life.

For those seeking broader opportunities, Inverness and Elgin are both within comfortable commuting distance.

These cities offer expanded options in fields such as healthcare, education, finance, and technology, allowing you to enjoy the tranquil lifestyle of Forres while benefiting from the amenities of larger urban centres.

Currently, Joblist is advertising a multitude of vacancies in and around Forres, including positions for social workers, driving instructors, store managers, project managers, and more.

Whether you’re starting your career, looking for a change, or seeking part-time work, there’s likely a position that fits your aspirations.

Visit Joblist today and discover if there’s a job that’s perfect for you! Embrace the opportunity to build a fulfilling career while enjoying all that living in Forres has to offer.

Healthcare and Wellness

Locals have access to some wonderful healthcare facilities in Forres.

Forres offers quality healthcare facilities to support residents’ well-being, providing both medical and wellness services.

The town’s main healthcare centre, Forres Health & Care Centre, offers a wide range of medical services, including GP appointments, dental care, and nursing support.

For hospital care, the nearby city of Elgin provides additional facilities, including Dr Gray’s Hospital, which serves the wider Moray area.

Complementing traditional healthcare, Forres has a variety of wellness centres and fitness studios, such as Kula Wellness for yoga and holistic health practices.

These services ensure that residents have ample resources nearby when the situation arises.

Are You Interested in Moving to Forres?

With its charm, amenities, and endless ways to get involved, Forres truly stands out as an ideal place to call home.

We hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights into life in Forres, helping you feel prepared and excited for your new chapter in this wonderful town.

Moving home is a difficult transition and it takes a huge amount of effort and organisation to make it happen.

Before you are able to make Forres your new home, you will need some help getting your possessions moved.

But don’t just opt for any removal company!

Make sure you find one that has the credentials and testimonies to prove that it is reliable, careful with your belongings and has the backing of BAR (The British Association of Removers).

At White & Company Forres, we cover all these essential points and more.

With over 150 years of experience serving the local community, we’ve helped thousands of people relocate to and from Southampton, the UK, Europe, and internationally.

Our expert team, modern fleet of vehicles, and extensive knowledge of the removal industry ensure a smooth transition to your new home.

After an in-person or virtual survey, we’ll provide you with a tailored, no-obligation quote to meet your individual needs and requirements.

Go ahead, give us a call today, out friendly staff are waiting for your call!

Max Peterson

Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.