Topic summary
Atholl Highlanders
The Atholl Highlanders is a Scottish private ceremonial infantry regiment. The regiment is not part of the British Armed Forces but under the command of the Duke of Atholl, and based at Blair Castle, Blair Atholl. Although it has no military role, the men are armed with 19th-century Lee–Metford rifles, and the regiment includes a pipe band. Around the size of an army company, they are now a tourist attraction at Blair Castle, taking part in annual parades.
It acted as the personal bodyguard to the dukes, chiefs of the Clan Murray, who lived in Perthshire for roughly seven centuries. Joining the Highlanders is by invitation from the duke, who selects men with ties to the estate or the local area. The current duke lives in South Africa, and has travelled to inspect the Highlanders at their annual parades. It has been described as the only legal private army in Europe.