The North Coast 500 isn’t just one of Scotland’s most scenic routes—it’s a motorcyclist’s dream. Remote roads hug windswept cliffs, single-track lanes curve through empty glens, and every mile offers something raw, elemental, and unforgettable. In this guide, I’ll share my route, riding tips, and the quiet moments that made this journey more than just a loop—it became a story etched into the road itself.
It was a cool and drizzly day that dawned. Andy and I had already loaded up our bikes for the run north to Moffat. Whilst the actual journey was one of getting to Moffat in a timely manner, there were a few things I wanted to see to break up the rather uninteresting motorway trip.
I wanted to see the Lockerbie memorial to those that perished in the air disaster and the second was to visit the town of Ecclefechan. The reason for that was that as a child Mum and Dad would take us to visit our relatives in Scotland and long before the motorway was built we passed through Ecclefechan and I wanted to revisit the place. I was amazed how many sights triggered memories from at least 50 years prior.
I was pleased to see that the memorial was very basic and understated. It was perfect. We spent some time at the garden just reflecting and remembering.
We then moved onto our accommodation for the night, The Buccleuch Arms Hotel in Moffat. Now this is a true motorcyclist hotel. Run by an effervescent Zimbabwean host who was fantastic. This place is a must stay for any biker looking to stay here. The rooms are very comfortable, The food and drink was very good, there are bike garages on the hotel grounds, and even supplies to look after your bike such as cleaners, air for the tyres and so much more. Stay here. You wont be disappointed.
The weather forecast for the coming days looks very promising.
Woodend Wanderer 