The history of Moffat
Posted by
Michael Tough on November 4 2019 at 15:33
Fancy learning some interesting facts on Moffat?
- Moffat is famous for having the waterfall ‘The Grey
Mairs Tail’ which is the fifth highest waterfall in the Uk. With Loch Skene at
the top it is a popular tourist attraction for many groups of walkers and is a
lovely picnic spot if us locals fancy getting out of the town on a summers day.
- Moffat has the worlds narrowest hotel, The
Famous Star Hotel which was previously mentioned in the Guinnes Book Of
Records. The hotel is only 20ft wide and 162ft long. Featuring a bar downstairs
and 2 eating areas it is a nice stopping point for a bar meal. They are also
dog friendly!
- The Moffat Ram is a famous tourist attraction and
represents the towns connection to the sheep trade. The sheep was unfortunately
sculpted with no ears, something that William Brodie never knew about until it
was unveiled. He later committed suicide after the burden of this was too much.
- Moffat is also famous for its annual Classic Car
Rally which takes place at the Moffat Showground. Showcasing vintage cars, it can have up to 900
entries over the two days. It is now into its 21st year and is still
as popular as ever.
- Let’s not forget about the famous Devils Beef
Tub which sits below the Edinburgh Road. The tub is formed by four hills; Great
Hill, Peat Knowe, Annanhead Hill and Ericstane Hill. It was used to hide stolen
cattle as there was only one way in and out. This can be seen from the Edinburgh
Road and is a popular attraction for walkers.
- Moffat Toffee Shop is a family run business originally
‘Mrs Blacklocks’ which opened its doors 125 years ago. Moffat Toffee is a
definite must when visiting Moffat and you especially need to try their home-made
toffee, which is sometimes sweet and sometimes sour. A favourite with the kids!
- September also marks the anniversary of Battle
of Britain. Air Chief Marshall Lord Dowding was one of those responsible for helping
to win the battle. He was born here in Moffat and every year there is a service
down at Station Park to commemorate his death and the Victory of the Battle.
- Up until the year 2018, Moffat held an annual
sheep race which was proven to be a popular day out for the family. Unfortunately,
due to licensing issues it was cancelled. A similar event was held this year,
only participants dressed up as sheep raced rather than sheep themselves.
- The Moffat Mill, part of the Edinburgh Woolen
mill branch, is a popular destination for bus tours and groups to stop off.
With tartan, whiskey and highland dress inside its very popular to do some Christmas
shopping.
- The Town Hall, now a popular wedding and party
venue, was once the towns bath halls. The water was piped down from the famous Moffat
Wells which was said to contain ‘healing properties.
- And finally, the famous Moffat Chippy. Formerly
known at ‘Toosh’s chippy’ which was a family run chippy. Bettina Dawson was the
owner and she was always found behind the fryers. The 90-year-old, who was the
oldest fryer in the world was awarded the B.E.M medal but unfortunately passed
away before getting the chance to meet the Queen at Buckingham palace in the
July.
507
b
RSS