Introduction

This evening, I am reporting on Britain’s only legal, private army, namely the Atholl Highlanders.

Video clip of the annual inspection of the Atholl Highlanders at Blair Castle

Information on the Atholl Highlanders

This unit is long associated with Blair Castle in Highland Perthshire, about 100 miles north of Glasgow.

In 1844 Queen Victoria and Prince Albert stayed at Blair Castle close to the village of Blair Atholl. The royal guests were so impressed with their bodyguard of Atholl Highlanders that the Queen granted the regiment the right to carry her colours. This award effectively granted the unit private army status which continues to this day.

The regiment acts as the personal bodyguard to the Duke of Atholl, chieftain of the Clan Murray, a family that has thrived in Perthshire for some 750 years. The current holder of the hereditary title is Bruce George Ronald Murray. He is the 12th Duke and South African born and resident. However, the Duke does visit Scotland to preside over the local highland games and for other official duties.

The Atholl Highlanders about 100 strong but has never seen active service. However, many of the regiment served with the Scottish horse in both World Wars. The regiment recruits from local communities.

Video clip of the regiment at Dunkeld in central Scotland.

Blair Castle is a popular visitor attraction and, together with its extensive grounds, is open to the public. Check website for details.

More information for the visitor

The publication, Visitors’ Guide to Scotland includes a section on castles and Scottish history. This book is heavily illustrated and contains a wealth of information. The ISBN is 978-1-9161332-0-4. Also available via Kindle.