Though sometimes confused with the term “laird” in Scotland, the titles of Lord and Lady are special in UK nobility, and there is a significant difference between all three of these words.
Laird - A distinctively Scottish word, “laird” and “lord” are sometimes used interchangeably. A Laird is someone who owns a large estate in Scotland and is seen as the “landlord” of such estate. The term “laird” is often used by those who live or work on the estate and the person who is referred to a “laird” owns the land. This land has often been passed down from generation to generation within the confines of Scotland itself.
Lord - Lord Known across the UK, “lord” can be granted or bestowed upon a person in several ways:
- Marriage between a Lord or Lady (owner of a parcel of land or estate) and seated, which means the title may be passed down from generation to generation upon death of the Lord or Lady, and the land has remained in the family.
- Purchasing “Lord of the Manor” titles, and thus purchasing aforementioned land from the current owner. This is the most expensive and drastic option, especially for those outside the UK.
- Receive an appointment to the House of Lords (done only via nomination and appointment from the Prime Minister, and must receive confirmation from Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II—this position cannot be purchased).
A Lady is the female equivalent of a Lord, and though she may choose to marry, a single woman may be considered a Lady in her own right, so long as she holds seated title to the parcel of land or estate, or, if appointed to the House of Lords, receives nomination and appointment thereof as previously mentioned in our last mention on the above list.
The titles of Lord and Lady may be purchased, and this is a simple process we provide through our web site. Should you choose to purchase this title, you may be referred to as Laird, Lord or Lady, and you never even have to set foot in Scotland if you don’t want to!
Here’s how it works:
- Via our web site, peruse available plots of land.
- Purchase the plot of land of your choice and submit your payment details.
- Receive your gift pack via world-wide postal services.
- Refer to or be referred to via your new title!
All land parcels remain in the Highland Trust of Scotland, and you may choose to visit your parcel of land whenever you like.
Please note—you may choose to style yourself as a Laird, Lord or Lady, but please remember that under Scottish Law, this is a title only and you have no legal rights or obligations attached to the parcel of land.
All land plots are considered souvenir plots of land and remain the property of the Highland Titles Charitable Trust.
If you’ve always dreamed of being referred to as a laird, lord or lady, purchase your plot and start living your dream!
