Definition and Acquisition

Also known as “prescriptive baronies by tenure,” Scottish feudal baronies are the only genuine degree of UK nobility that can be bought and sold.

Feudal baronies are remnants of the old Scottish system of allodial tenure or “family-feudalism.” They were estates in land held directly from the Crown. Ownership was attached to specific land (termed the caput) and recorded in the General Register of Sasines.

A Scottish barony title is a noble title that dates back centuries, signifying a person of rank in Scotland. The title itself can be acquired by anyone, including ladies, with specific traditions applying to the titles. For instance, the husband of a Baroness does not get the courtesy title of Baron. Whereas the wife of a Baron is a Baroness.

Evolution of Baronial Powers

Historically, barons had significant law enforcement powers and commercial advantages, such as petitioning the Crown to establish towns with Burgh of Barony status. The Act of 1587 allowed minor barons to abstain from attending the King’s parliament. The Abolition of Feudal Tenure etc. (Scotland) Act 2000 further reduced baronial powers, making barony titles purely titles of dignity without associated responsibilities.

Scottish feudal baronies are acknowledged as genuine titles of nobility within the British honours system.

Modern Applications and Ownership

Today, many barons use their titles to further their business interests, such as displaying the baron’s coat of arms on letterheads. Titles are often acquired to cement family ties with Scotland, for an interest in Scottish history, or as a unique personal accolade.

Purchasing a Barony

Barony titles have been bought and sold for centuries, and although they no longer come with vast tracts of land, they remain noble titles. Acquiring a title can be a way to honour someone by bequeathing it to them.

Naming Conventions

Upon acquiring a barony title, one can style themselves as “John Smith, Baron of Strathglen,” but not “Baron Strathglen” or “Baron Smith of Strathglen,” as these indicate peerage titles.

Coat of Arms

A barony title does not come with a coat of arms. The design of arms is decided by the Lord Lyon but includes personal symbols. For example, a Campbell might have a gyronny pattern, or a sailor might include nautical elements. Scottish arms are personal, passed down the family line according to heraldic law. Sons may use a variant of their father’s arms, while daughters may use their father’s arms until marriage.

The primary difference between the arms of a Feudal Baron and others lies in the helmet’s design, which signifies rank. Barons, knights, or peers use appropriate helmets. If a Crest is granted, it can be worn or displayed by the Armiger’s “Tail” (friends and family) through a Crest Badge featuring a strap-and-buckle design with the Armiger’s motto. The Armiger wears the crest in a circlet bearing the motto with a feather.

Baronial Rights and Usage

Someone with legal ownership of a Scottish Feudal Barony is entitled to use the title “John Surname, Baron of (location)” formally, including on official documents like driving licenses and passports. However, this title differs from peerage titles such as “Lord.”

Legal Framework and Registration

Separation from Land

Since 2004, Scottish barony titles have been legally separated from land ownership. If you desire to own land in addition to a title, you should consult a solicitor for guidance on purchasing land.

The Scottish Barony Register

The Scottish Barony Register was established after the 2004 land law changes to record changes in the ownership of Scottish barony titles. It is only accessible by Scottish solicitors and serves to maintain the integrity of barony title transactions.

Costs and Legal Procedures

The acquisition of a barony involves the actual cost of the barony itself,  typically between £55,000-£95,000 (occasionally more), legal fees ranging between £2,000 to £3,000 plus our purchasers premium of 5% + local tax. The total legal costs includes examining title deeds, preparing conveyancing documentation, and registering the dignity in the Scottish Barony Register.

Petition for Arms

Obtaining a barony title allows the holder to petition the Lord Lyon King of Arms for a coat of arms, subject to certain conditions. The petition is submitted after registering the barony, which then brings the holder within the jurisdiction of the Lord Lyon’s Court.

Authenticity and Legal Recognition

•  Real Titles purchased with legal conveyancing vs. Online Purchases: Titles sold online as souvenirs do not hold the same recognition as legally purchased barony titles and do not allow for petitioning the Lord Lyon for a coat of arms.

•  Eligibility for Non-Scots: Anyone, regardless of nationality, may acquire a Scottish barony title.