Finding your Loch Lomond Clan

Explore your clan connections in the heart of Loch Lomond

Situated on the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond, Loch Lomond Waterfront offers the ideal location to base yourself while exploring Scotland’s rich heritage and history. If you have family connections in Loch Lomond, read our guide to researching your Scottish ancestry in this area and what we can do to help.

The clan system in Scotland

The clan system in Scotland was a traditional social structure that existed from the 13th to the 18th century. Clans were large kinship groups, each led by a chief who held authority over its members and lands. The clan would be named after the surname of its chief, and members would often change their own surname to match. They maintained their own armies and often engaged in inter-clan conflicts, but also formed alliances through marriage and shared interests.

While the clans no longer hold the same power or land today, they remain a significant part of Scottish identity and heritage. Modern clans are groups with a shared heritage, helping to preserve ancient traditions. They continue to foster community and pride among Scots and their descendants worldwide. If you have a Scottish surname or links to one, enter it here to see if you are part of a clan.

Clans associated with Loch Lomond

During your stay with us, you can enjoy a cultural tour around Loch Lomond, visiting locations associated with notable clans. Private tour companies such as Clan Chief Tours, Scotland’s Wild and Kilted Piper Tours specialise in creating bespoke tours for your particular clan. Contact them directly for more information.

Aerial view of Inchcailloch Island — Inchcailloch island was raided by Rob Roy MacGregor in 1715

Here are some of the prominent clans in the Loch Lomond area:

MacGregor – The MacGregor clan has a long history in the Loch Lomond area, particularly around the shores of the loch and the surrounding hills. This was once one of the most powerful and feared clans in the region. The most famous member was Rob Roy MacGegor and you can visit several Rob Roy locations in this area.

Colquhoun – The Colquhoun clan was historically based at the impressive Rossdhu House on the northern shore of Loch Lomond.

Buchanan – The Buchanan clan has deep roots around Loch Lomond. Particularly near the village of Drymen and the lands of Buchanan Castle.

Macfarlane – The Macfarlane clan is closely tied to the Loch Lomond area, around the Trossachs, to the north of the loch.

Campbell – The Campbells, one of Scotland’s most powerful clans, also had significant holdings around Loch Lomond.

Stewart – The Stewarts, a royal dynasty, had ties to the Loch Lomond region. Through the Stewart of Luss branch.

Graham – Though their primary territories were further south, the Grahams also had interests in the Loch Lomond region.

Galbraith – The Galbraiths had a strong presence in the area surrounding Loch Lomond, especially around Dumbarton and Balfron. Inchgalbraith, a small island on the loch, was an early stronghold.