The Balmoral Highlanders
The Balmoral Highlanders have a rich history routed in the time of Queen Victoria's and her loyal staff on the Balmoral estate. Initially, the staff uniform was simple, comprising only a jacket and Royal Stewart tartan kilt, while the Queen's piper proudly sported the Balmoral tartan.
With the vision of King Edward VII the Balmoral Highlanders was formed. The uniform evolved when he commissioned a complete Highland attire for his piper and 24 "men-at-arms."
In 1903, William Robb of Ballater was entrusted with creating the original silver accoutrements, which were distinguished by the hallmark of Edinburgh 1903 and the maker's mark of William Robb of Ballater.
The Balmoral Highlanders Photographic Archive
Balmoral Highlanders Uniform
The Balmoral Highlanders uniform is rich in tradition and heritage, centred around the timeless Royal Stewart tartan. Every detail of the attire is meticulously crafted to embody Scottish pride and history. From the glengarry badge adorned with the silver crest of the King in Scotland to the silver jacket buttons featuring the Royal crest, each element reflects a deep sense of honor and regality.
Complementing the ensemble is the goat's hair sporran, complete with a matching belt buckle and shoe buckles that harmonize with the cantle, adding a touch of sophistication and authenticity to the distinguished attire.
The Royal piper at Balmoral
The royal piper stationed at Balmoral proudly donned the traditional Balmoral tartan kilt paired with perfectly matching underwear trews, a full pipers plaid, and coordinated tartan full hose. In place of the standard glengarry, the piper's ensemble was complemented by a distinctive Balmoral bonnet adorned with a corresponding glengarry badge.
Additional elements of the piper's attire included leather brogues featuring silver buckles, a leather waist belt and crossbelt adorned with imposing silver buckles, a silver-mounted sporran bearing the royal crest, a plaid brooch, a silver-mounted dirk accompanied by a knife and fork, and a silver-mounted skean dubh, all intricately embellished with Celtic strap work that harmonized with the overall look.
The ensemble was further enhanced by a gem-set powder horn and a silver arm plate, both adorned with the royal crest, providing the final touches to the distinguished uniform.
