In terms of the origins of clan names, most are believed to be anglicised forms of Gaelic, French, Norman, and other languages. Many clans still hold gatherings and social events to continue their traditions. Scotland has approximately 500 clans with members from across the world. This major clash between the British and Jacobites (Scottish rebels) marked the beginning of the end for Highland life and clan culture. To this day, there are still clan chiefs that head up the family.įor centuries, clans formed the backbone of Scotland’s political system, until the defeat of the Scots at the Battle of Culloden in 1746. Within the clan system, each clan has a chief or leader. The word “clan” is derived from the Scottish Gaelic word “clann”, which can roughly be translated as “‘children” or “kindred.”Ĭlan members also, traditionally, lived within the same area and sometimes had an ancestral castle where they’d hold social events. They share a sense of identity, history, and of course, clan tartans. How can you find out more about Scottish ancestry?Ĭlans are essentially kinship groups amongst Scottish people.We answer questions you might have, give a little history on some of the prominent Scottish clans, and highlight our pick of top historical sites you can explore on your tour of Scotland. To prepare for your trip, we've put together a basic introduction to Scottish ancestry. Perhaps, like many of our private tour customers, you'd love to explore your own family history when you visit Scotland. As a result, clan descendants have spread far and wide.

In the aftermath of these defining cultural moments, thousands of clan members migrated to destinations across the New World, like America, Canada and Australia. Now, come with us on a journey through the events that shaped Scottish history, such as the Jacobite rebellions and the Highland Clearances. Start planning your journey through Scotland: explore our privately guided and self-drive tours

There are so many monuments, castles and significant clan sites for you to explore in Scotland.

On a trip to Scotland, you could uncover the legacy of Scottish clans for an interesting insight into the country's history.

Clans are an intrinsic part of Scotland’s heritage and a fascinating element of Scottish culture.

Scottish family crests by name