The differences between the English & Scottish peerage systems

Origins

While both England and Scotland share the same sovereign and have a unified peerage system today, there are some interesting historical and legal differences between their original peerage systems, established before the Act of Union in 1707.

The English peerage emerged from the Norman Conquest of 1066, where William the Conqueror created a system of landholding barons who owed him allegiance and service. These barons later developed into the House of Lords, a legislative body with significant power. Over time, the English peerage expanded with the creation of new ranks like dukes and marquesses.

The Scottish peerage developed from Celtic roots and was less centralised than the English system. Early Scottish peers were powerful regional lords who held significant sway over their territories. The Scottish Parliament, established in the 13th century, included both nobles and commoners.

Inheritance and Titles

English titles typically descended solely through the male line, with the eldest son inheriting the title and estates. However, there were exceptions, with some titles allowing female inheritance through specific provisions. England had an extensive range of titles, including dukes, marquesses, earls, viscounts, and barons.

In Scotland it was a much simpler structure, with only dukes, marquesses, earls, lords, and lairds. Within the historical and social fabric of Scotland, the figure of the laird occupies a distinct and fascinating position. A laird, in essence, is the proprietor of a substantial and traditionally established estate, typically of ancestral significance. While often compared to the English “lord of the manor,” the laird’s status is subtly different. “Laird” is not a formal title in the legal sense, like Baron or Duke. Despite lacking formal nobility, the laird’s position commanded significant respect and influence.

Role in Government

The English House of Lords had significant legislative power until the early 20th century, holding the ability to veto legislation passed by the House of Commons.

The Scottish Parliament played a more central role in government than the English House of Lords, with both nobles and commoners having representation. However, after the Act of Union, the Scottish Parliament was dissolved, and Scottish peers lost their direct legislative influence.

Modernisation and Reform

Both the English and Scottish peerage systems have undergone significant reform in the 20th and 21st centuries. The hereditary right of most peers to sit in the House of Lords was abolished in 1999, with a limited number of elected peers now serving alongside appointed experts.

Despite these differences, the English and Scottish peerage systems eventually merged into a single system after the Act of Union. Today, the peerage remains a symbolic and historical element of the United Kingdom, with titles still being conferred by the monarch.

Can you buy a lord or lady title?

When you’ve decided what title to confer on yourself – or as an ideal gift for a friend or loved one – there’s no need to follow those traditional, difficult, and expensive routes to becoming a Laird, Lord or Lady.

Just visit our shop and complete a safe, secure online purchase. You’ll receive an email order confirmation, then sit back, and wait for your honours to arrive in the post in an exciting welcome presentation pack.

Each title costs just £80, with free postage worldwide, and you have the right to transfer ownership of your title and land to anyone else at any time or leave it behind as a legacy for a loved one.

Own a piece of Scottish legend with your very own Loch Ness Title, granting you a square foot overlooking the iconic loch. Your purchase safeguards Scotland’s wildlife and heritage, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come.

If you’re looking for more information about how to buy a title with Loch Ness Titles, and help the conservation efforts of Brackla woods, read through our How to Buy a Title guide. You can also get more information from dedicated Buy a Scottish Lord Title, Buy a Scottish Lady Title, and Buy a Scottish Laird Title.

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