The pomp and pageantry of the Atholl Gathering provided a touch of splendour in Highland Perthshire over the weekend.
Europe’s only private army, the Atholl Highlanders, turned out in full regalia for their annual inspection in the scenic setting of Blair Castle on Saturday.
The Highlanders paraded on the castle forecourt to the sound of the pipes and drums, following which the Duke of Atholl undertook the annual inspection of his men in front of the crowd.
A special talk also detailed the historical background of this unique regiment and how Queen Victoria’s stay at the castle led to its creation.
Members of the regiment were in attendance to chat about what it is like to be part of a private army.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=slgRimOSM24%3Frel%3D0
The Highland Gathering took place on Sunday, with the Atholl Highlanders officially opening the Highland Games with a ‘March On’, led again by the sound of their pipes and the sonorous booming of their drums.
Heavyweight strongmen from around Scotland took centre stage to battle it out in the games, which included traditional events such as tossing the caber, putting the shot and throwing the hammer.
Other attractions on show included Highland dancing events, tug of war, solo piping and trade stands.