Scotland

One of the first things that people tend to associate with Scotland is tartan. Although it’s a national treasure, many of us are unaware of the history behind tartan. With this in mind, we take a closer look into what it is, its origins, and its presence in today’s world.

Think ‘Scotland’ and you probably imagine three things: haggis, bagpipes and kilts. Although these are stereotypes, they undoubtedly form part of the nation’s identity and history.

This Grant 1714 tartan was recently reconstructed by Peter Macdonald, tartan historian, and honorary Head of Research at The Scottish Tartan’s Authority from studies of Richard Waitt’s portraits of the Laird of Grant’s Piper and Champion from 1714. This historic tartan is one of the earliest tartans on record predating the Battle of Culloden 1745 and the later 19th century tartans and is believed to be the only historic early 18th century tartan to have been re-created and registered by a Clan Chief.

Today, kilts can be worn in whatever way you wish and it is acceptable if you decide not to stick with the traditional highland wear look. Whether you are still deciding on the type of kilt you want or looking to make the most out of your current kilt and wear it to more than the occasional formal event. We have provided inspiration on how to adapt your outfit it to suit your personal style and create a more casual look.

The quaich is an iconic Scottish item steeped in tradition, representative of a shared experience in uniting clans, demonstrating trust and a sense of belonging. Discover more about the heritage of the quaich and why sipping a dram from this special Scottish cup is part of many celebrations in Scotland today.

Incorporating a tartan sash in your ladies’ highland dress outfit is a great way to show off your Scottish clan heritage and leaves you looking your best for that special event. If you are interested in how to style your sash traditionally or looking for inspiration for a more contemporary look, we have created this guide of some of the different ways you can wear your sash to fit your style.

Lochcarron is a beautiful village, with a population of around 900, found in the Highlands of...

Scotland’s rich cultural heritage is often celebrated through its traditional crafts and fabrics. One such craft is the art of weaving tartan, which holds a special place in the heart of the nation. At Lochcarron of Scotland we have been weaving tartan for generations, creating exquisite patterns and designs. Here, we explore the fascinating world of weaving the very unique King Charles III tartan created for His Majesty and the significance of this timeless tradition.

We welcomed Susie Finlayson at our Lochcarron of Scotland Visitor Centre, Selkirk on the 6th of September with the tapestry panel for the Galashiels Interchange Panel Project. Holding this event allowed many of our colleagues and visitors to get involved and add a stitch to the beautiful panel.