Myths & Legends of Scotland

Scotland’s story is steeped in oral tradition of storytelling. The blurry line between historical fact and myth is evident

Symbolic Scotland There are many symbols which can embody the character of a nation. Scotland is no different in that respect; The saltire, this thistle and the lion rampant are all significant symbols of our nation. Furthermore there are symbols held dear by the many of the Scottish Clans, Some obvious in their representation on clan crests others less well known in clan artefacts.

» Read about the symbols of our nation

Jacobite Legends When William of Orange took the English throne in 1689 it ended the Stewart Royal dynasty that had endured for centuries. Though many were glad to see the end of this chapter in our history many more, particularly in the Highlands were keen to see it re-established. From the Battle of Killiekrankie in 1689 through the first rebellion in 1715 to the more famous ’45 the Jacobite cause was fought for time and time again. Many stories and myths from this time abound, here are just a few.

» Read about the the legends of the Jacobites

Supernatural Scotland As organised religion in the shape of Christianity spread through Europe it replaced older beliefs. These beliefs were deeply rooted in local culture and superstition, they determined so much of everyday life; rituals of fertility could mean life or death to those whose livelihood was made from the land. The great success of the Christian faith was how it absorbed many of these beliefs and rituals, however there was a darker side, the side which worshipped more menacing pagan symbols. Stories from the darker side of our nature and stories that cannot be explained are everywhere in Scotland,

» find out more about Scotland’s supernatural past…. and present!

Religious Legends Some call Scotland ‘Gods own country’. With such a wealth of early religious symbolism in places like the beautiful island of Iona, the Celtic crosses that appear all over Scotland, the numerous abbeys and monasteries and of course great saints like St Columba, St Ninian, St Andrew and St Margaret. Scotland has a reputation as a pious country, find out more about or religious legacy.

» Read about the religious legends of Scotland

Royal Legends Ask anyone what they know about Scottish Kings and they may say Robert the Bruce, or even MacBeth. With such a bloody past Scotland’s rule changed hands many times whether by design of by force. Some Royal legends are well known bedtime or inspirational tales such as Bruce and his spider. Some stories have been warped by time and literary licence such as Shakespeare’s version of MacBeth. But with so many great Scottish kings we have no shortage of great Royal legends.

» Read about the royal legends of Scotland

Scottish Monsters Nessie! She has to be one of the worlds most famous monsters. Rival to Bigfoot and the Kraken there can’t be many people in the English speaking world who don’t know who she is. But what of the other Scottish monsters? Many others have been told to roam our land; from kelpies, mermaids and fairy folk to the dreaded Linton Worm. Hear about the many strange creatures that populated Scotland through the mists of time.

» Read about the royal legends of Scotland

Scottish Heroes And Villains Hollywood has immortalised Scottish heroes such as William Wallace and Rob Roy MacGregor (whether accurately or not can be debated). Even some of our less commendable characters have been shown on the silver screen and preserved in literature; Burke and Hare the infamous body snatchers, Deacon Brodie the inspiration for the character of Dr Jeckyll and Mr Hyde and even the cannibal family of Sawney Bean was the inspiration for the horror movie ‘The Hills have eyes’. Read more of the commendable and the contemptible characters of Scotland.

» Read about the heros and villains of Scotland