Scotland Laird of Edinburgh
The Lordship of Edinburgh
Edinburgh's lordship history is as dramatic as the volcanic rock upon which its castle stands. Castle Rock has been a seat of power for over 3,000 years, and Edinburgh Castle has served as the residence of Scottish monarchs since at least the 12th century. The castle was the birthplace of James VI, who would later unite the crowns of Scotland and England.
The Lord Provost of Edinburgh has served as the city's chief magistrate since the 15th century and holds a status equivalent to a Lord Mayor in England. The Lord Provost is entitled to the prefix 'The Right Honourable' and carries significant ceremonial authority.
The Scottish Parliament sat in Edinburgh from the medieval period, and the city's nobility built magnificent townhouses along the Royal Mile. The New Town, built in the 18th century, was designed to give Edinburgh's growing professional class homes befitting their aspirations to gentility.
Edinburgh and the Peerage
Edinburgh has been connected to numerous Scottish peerage titles. The Earldom of Edinburgh was most recently created for Prince Philip in 1947. The Marquessate of Edinburgh has never existed, making the Earldom the highest title specifically linked to the city.
View the full Peerage Hierarchy ChartNotable Lords of Edinburgh
Edinburgh Castle's One O'Clock Gun has been fired every day (except Sundays) since 1861, originally to help ships in the Firth of Forth set their maritime chronometers.
Scotland Noble Surnames
Explore the noble heritage of Scotland's most prominent family names and discover their connections to the peerage.
Become a Laird or Lady of Scotland
Edinburgh's noble past lives on. Become a Laird or Lady of Scotland and receive your personalised certificate, title deed, and registry entry from just £55.
