The King continues his grandmother’s legacy as he attends the Mey Highland Games

The King paid a spirited tribute to his Scottish roots over the weekend, donning traditional Highland dress to attend the Mey Highland Games in Caithness, where he was seen enjoying a dram of whisky and chatting warmly with competitors.

Wearing the exclusive Balmoral tartan – a royal pattern designed by Prince Albert in the 1850s and reserved for use by the sovereign – His Majesty arrived at the John O’Groats Showground to cheers from spectators. Accompanied by his cousin, Lady Sarah Chatto, the King appeared in good spirits as he waved to the crowd and took his seat beneath the main marquee.

The monarch’s attire, complete with red hose, leather sporran and a beige jacket, signalled both tradition and personal affection for Scotland. The King is known for his enduring connection to the Highlands, where he has spent summers since childhood, and he often wears kilts during engagements north of the border.

As Chieftain of the Mey Highland Games – a role he assumed in 2002 following the death of his grandmother, the Queen Mother – His Majesty presided over a day of classic Highland competitions including caber tossing, tug o’ war, massed pipe bands and Highland dancing. The games were first established in 1970 to mark the Queen Mother’s 70th birthday and have remained a cherished annual tradition in Caithness ever since.

At one point, the King was seen raising a glass of whisky in a toast, smiling as he sampled a dram in the company of local dignitaries and participants. He later mingled with competitors, exchanging greetings and expressing admiration for the day’s performances.

The Balmoral tartan, which featured prominently in the King’s ensemble, remains one of the most exclusive of its kind. Aside from the sovereign, only the Sovereign’s Piper is permitted to wear it. Its central stripe motif, characteristic of several royal tartans, has been woven in Scotland from 100% native wool, and serves as a visual link to the monarchy’s historical ties with the Highlands.

The King’s visit to the Mey Highland Games marks another summer spent in Scotland – a ritual that began in his youth and continues in his reign, reinforcing both familial tradition and his personal affinity with the region.