For over 300 years, regimental tartans have been woven into the identity of some of the world's most legendary military units. These patterns are not mere decoration—they are symbols of courage, belonging, and sacrifice, worn by soldiers from the glens of Scotland to battlefields across continents.

At Great Scot, we preserve this heritage by working exclusively with Scotland's family-owned traditional mills to weave authentic regimental tartans—the same patterns carried into history by the Black Watch, the Seaforth Highlanders, the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders, and dozens of other distinguished regiments.

Whether you're honouring an ancestor who stood in the "Thin Red Line" at Balaclava, a great-grandfather who fought at Passchendaele, or simply connecting with Scotland's military legacy, our collection tells a story of valour that spans generations.

The Origins of Regimental Tartans

Regimental tartans emerged in the 18th century as Highland regiments were raised to serve the British Crown. Initially, soldiers wore their clan tartans into battle, but as regiments formalised, specific patterns became associated with military units.

The Black Watch tartan is the most iconic. Established in 1725, the Black Watch, officially the 42nd Regiment of Foot, became the senior Highland regiment. Its dark blue, green, and black pattern became synonymous with Scottish military prowess and was adopted or adapted by numerous other regiments.

Legendary Regiments and Their Tartans

Black Watch (The Royal Highland Regiment)

The Black Watch tartan is the foundation of Scottish military dress. Formed to "watch" the Highlands, the regiment earned legendary status through campaigns in North America, the Napoleonic Wars, both World Wars, and beyond.

Seaforth Highlanders (78th Regiment of Foot)

Raised in 1778 by Kenneth Mackenzie, Earl of Seaforth, the Seaforth Highlanders wore the Mackenzie tartan as their regimental colours. They served with distinction from the Napoleonic Wars through both World Wars until amalgamation in 1961.

Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders

This regiment wore the Sutherland tartan. The 93rd earned immortal fame as the "Thin Red Line" at the Battle of Balaclava during the Crimean War, a moment when a single line of Highlanders held firm against a Russian cavalry charge.

Scotland's Diaspora: Tartans Around the World

Regimental tartans tell not only the story of Scotland's regiments but also of Scotland's global diaspora, the Scots who carried their heritage to every corner of the world.

Why Regimental Tartans Matter Today

Regimental tartans are more than historical artefacts; they are living connections to the past. For many families, wearing a regimental tartan is a way to honour ancestors who served, to remember sacrifices made, and to preserve military heritage for future generations.

At Great Scot, every regimental tartan we offer is:

• Woven traditionally in Scotland by family-owned mills
• Historically accurate to the original regimental patterns
• Made to order or available from stock
• Ethically produced to support Scotland's rural textile communities

How to Choose Your Regimental Tartan

The Great Scot Difference

As the second-largest buyer of traditional woven tartans and tweeds in the UK, Great Scot plays a vital role in sustaining Scotland's textile industry. Our partnerships with family-owned mills support traditional weaving skills passed down through generations, rural Scottish jobs, and historical accuracy in every tartan we weave.

When you purchase a regimental tartan from Great Scot, you're not just buying fabric; you're supporting the survival of Scotland's textile heritage and honouring the soldiers who wore these patterns with pride.

Honour Military Heritage

Explore our collection of over 80 authentic regimental tartans, each woven traditionally in Scotland.

Lest we forget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Explore Our Collection?

Browse over 80 authentic regimental tartans, from the iconic Black Watch to rare diaspora regiments.