Scotland’s Greatest Clans & their Castles
The stories of Scotland’s great clans are rich in myth & legend, here we list some of the countries most important families and explore their heritage and the stories of their proud ancestral seats.
For each clan their is a chieftain, a motto, a war cry, a tartan, a plant badge, their own traditions, myths and age old disputes between different clans. This in particular came to a head at the Battle of Culloden in 1746, when the Jacobite clans loyal to Bonnie Prince Charlie fought the Duke of Cumberland, known as ‘Butcher Cumberland’, who was allied with clans loyal to the crown, the most famous of which was Clan Campbell.
Below we break down some of the most famous or infamous of Scotland’s clans, discover their castles and explore some of their unique stories and traditions. For those wanting to experience the magic of these great fortresses or gracious stately homes, and those wanting to enjoy their clan gatherings & highland games, we also include information on how to visit them below.
Clan Campbell - Inveraray Castle
Perhaps the most infamous of Scotland’s clans, Clan Campbell has long been known for their unrivalled power and the respect they have gained through their military victories and proximity to those who sit on the throne. Their solemn motto: “Ne Obliviscaris” latin for “Forget Not”. Today however, Clan Campbell is known for its great size, its stunning tartan and the castle that it’s chieftain, the Duke of Argyll, calls home, namely Inveraray Castle. The wonderful Duchess of Argyll spoke to Duchess about the history of her home and the Campbell clan, which you can listen to here. The Campbell Clan gathering held every year at Inveraray, takes place on the 18th of July, and features all the events, bagpipes & pomp of a traditional highland games.
Clan Murray - Blair Castle & Scone Palace
Established in the 12th century, the Murray’s have since the 16th century, enjoyed significant influence across Scottish & British politics, the arts & the military. Their motto: “Furth fortune and fill the fetters”. Since the 16th century the Murrays of Tullibardine, later Dukes of Atholl, have been the senior branch of the clan, calling the magnificent Blair Atholl estate their home for centuries. The senior trustee of the estate Sarah Troughton, spoke to Duchess about Blair Castle and its proud history in Series 3. The Blair Atholl games & gathering take place every May, which gives you the opportunity to view the only private army in Europe parade - the Atholl Highlanders. Listen to her episode here.
However, the Murray’s of Scone have held just as influential a position in British society. The notable Earl of Mansfield, helped Britain begin a path that culminated in the abolition of slavery, and adopted his black niece, Dido Elizabeth Belle causing a great scandal, immortalised in the film Belle starring Gugu Mbatha-Raw. Lord Mansfield’s descendants are the custodians of the glorious Scone Palace in Fife, ancient site of the coronations of Scottish Kings. The present Lady Mansfield spoke to Duchess about her families fascinating history. Listen here.
Clan Scott - Bowhill House
Clan Scott, take their name from the ancient name given to the Celts that occupied what is now Scotland. For centuries the clan has been at the centre of British & Scottish life, supporting Robert the Bruce, marrying into the royal family and leading men into battle through the centuries. Their charming motto is: “Amo” or “I Love”. The present chieftain is His Grace the Duke of Buccleuch & Queensberry, who is one of the UK’s greatest landowners, owning Drumlanrig Castle, Bowhill House, Dalkeith Palace and Boughton House.
Clan Bruce
The Bruce Clan are not only a family who have commanded great influence throughout the centuries, but were once the reigning royal house of Scotland, under their great King: Robert the Bruce who sent the English packing out of Scotland in 1314. An event which was immortalised in the nations proud anthem ‘Flower of Scotland’. Their motto: “Fuimus” or “We have been”. In more modern times however, Clan Bruce have provided courtiers, politicians and great soldiers to Britain. The present chieftain of the Clan is the Earl of Elgin, who’s elegant home: the Broomhall Estate near Edinburgh, looks onto the great river that flows past Edinburgh: the Firth of Forth.