As lovers of all things Scottish, we love to learn about the rich heritage of the Highlands. This week we are covering Scottish tartans, with a focus on Black Watch and Royal Stewart. 

Tartan is one of the most recognisable patterns in the world, and represents a distinctive symbol of the Scottish culture. It has been estimated that there are more than 4000 different tartans, with around 150 new designed each year. Some of the most famous examples of these are Royal Stewart and Black Watch.

Royal Stewart is the most popular plaid, according to the Scottish Register of Tartans and was originally the personal tartan of Queen Elizabeth II and The Royal House of Stewart.

Traditionally, Royal Stewart should only be worn with the permission of the Monarch. However, due to its popularity, it became the most commercially produced tartan. The Royal Family then adopted the Balmoral tartan as their own unique plaid and it is said that Prince Albert personally designed it.

Black Watch tartan was originally worn by the Highland Regiment that patrolled the highlands trying to get rid of the criminals. The original six companies of the regiment were made up of Clan Munro, Clan Fraser of Lovat, Clan Grant and three companies from Clan Campbell. 

The tartan's history remains a proof of honour, gallantry and devotion. Today, the famous plaid is considered to be the most recognisable tartan and continues to be worn by the Royal Regiment of Scotland, being officially referred to as the Government 1A Tartan.