How To Become a Scottish Laird

In principle, in Scottish law a person can use the designation `Laird of Someplace' merely by owning some land in that place. Traditionally the title `Laird' was reserved to major landowners and public dignitaries, but in theory any landowner can use it. Of course, this makes all Scottish landowners notional lairds, although there are, of course, proper, traditional Lairdships in Scotland, recognized by the Lord Lyon. A number of companies are selling off tiny pieces of land (`souvenir plots') in the highlands to allow people to become lairds, to the chagrin of the `real' lairds. The current rate is in the area of $60. For the money you do get a real piece of land (albeit tiny) which you can go and visit if you want to feel connected to the soil. It is real property and the title of Laird, such as it is, can be inherited, or sold at a profit if you're lucky.

It isn't unusual to read that the Scottish word `laird' is simply the Scottish equivalent of the English word `lord' (which might be true, in the linguistic sense), so Laird Whomever could legitimately call himself Lord Whomever (which is not true).

A "Laird" is not the same as a British "Lord," and as such you are only entitled to the title of "Laird." In Scots law "Laird" is a unisex title, therefore the title "Lady" is not an appropriate substitute.

In theory, you could rename your plot of land to whatever you wish (within reason). For example, if you named your plot of land "Gumballs," you could be know as Laird of Gumballs.

The United States Government does not officially recognize any title granted by a foreign power, therefore your title will not appear on any official government documentation; unless you include it in an official name change, or sweet talk a DMV clerk.

Lochaber Highland Estates
Current Price: $58.61

Land Title Deed (A4 size, suitable for framing).
Exclusive credit card size 'Proof of Title'.
Lochaber Crest - proudly display YOUR new Heraldic device.
Map of site and access instructions.
Information and pictures of Lairds Wood and our conservation project.
Information and pictures of Lochaber, Scotland.
A personal letter of introduction.
All delivered in a beautiful gift folder.

Chaol Ghleann and Dunans Castle

Dunans Castle is an historic building set in a dramatic wooded landscape, with a superlative rubble-built bridge providing access across the salmon-filled river running at its foot. Set on a ledge, itself bounded by an Ha-ha, this romantic edifice can truly claim to be one of Scotland's hidden gems and you have the opportunity to become part of it and part of its history by becoming Laird or Lady of Dunans Castle, historic seat of the Clan Fletcher.

By becoming a Laird or Lady of Dunans Castle, you will be:

Preventing Dunans Castle becoming one of the Lost Mansions of Argyll.
Preserving and maintaining designated areas of heritage woodland along with a unique biodiverse landscape containing locally and nationally rare species
Supporting a carbon-aware, ecologically-sound project

Laird of the Isle of Jura

As a Laird of Jura you will own 1 square foot of land overlooking Crackaig Bay on the Isle of Jura, Scotland.

To commemorate your purchase you will receive:

A parchment title certificate, suitable for framing, clearly stating the owners name and plot number.
A 40 page A4 booklet with full colour photos telling you more about the Isle of Jura. The booklet also includes further details of your plot and how to access it.
A 10% discount voucher for accommodation at the Jura Hotel - the ideal place to stay when you come to visit your land.
Access to a website giving you further information about the Isle of Jura - its history, wildlife and whisky.
A regular email newsletter to keep you up to date with life on Jura.

The Mac-Sothis Clan
Current Price: $74.26

Land Title Deed
Rights of Access
Proof of Title Card
Maps and Information

Laird of Kincavel
Current Price: $52.26

Laird of Kincavel gift announcement certificate
Local map of the area and FAQ's
Welcome letter
Information about the Estate & surrounding Area
Map of Scotland showing location of the Kincavel Estate
A little History of Scotland book
Freepost Registration Card

Laird of Glencairn
Current Price: $58.53

The opportunity to become a Laird of Glencairn in the Highlands of Scotland.
Ownership of a square foot of land in Glencairn, in the beautiful Scottish Highlands.
A Map of Glencairn.
A presentation certificate and pen.
A registration code so you can officially register your be-titled status.
Registration can be done online or by post.
Post-registration you will receive a certificate of your official title and a 'Proof of Title' card.
The 'Proof of Title' card allows access to the Laird's retreat on the banks of Loch Riddon in Argyll, offering excellent camping and fishing.
An information booklet on the Laird's Retreat.
Information about the environmental and conservational benefits of owning land in Glencairn.
The gift is presented in an attractive presentation tin with a tartan sleeve.
Size: 22 x 16 x 2.5cm.