East Lothian Tartan

Scottish World Tartan Register No. 2561

From the quaint fishing villages around its coastline to the sleepy hamlets scattered throughout the rich farmland of its interior, ‘The Garden County’ of East Lothian has remained relatively undisturbed despite the county’s turbulent past, and displays a natural charm which makes it one of Scotland’s most attractive locations for visitors.

The colours of the East Lothian Tartan have been chosen to symbolise the leading role which the county has played in shaping the history of Scotland,
and have been woven together to produce a unique and distinctive design.

GREEN represents its predominantly rural landscape, and GOLD the abundance and variety of its agriculture. BLUE represents the Firth of Forth and its many ports and fishing villages, and PURPLE symbolises the numerous historic castles and the county’s royal heritage, and BLACK its coal, first uncovered in Scotland by monks on the shores of Prestonpans.

The official tartan for anyone who claims East Lothian descent or visits the county.

Launched by Provost Tom Delaney at East Lothian Council HQ in 1999, the East Lothian tartan is used to brand ‘The Garden County’.

Associated Links

Tartans Scotland Online Tartan Guide (external link)

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Tartan Facts & Snippets

The oldest tartan is the Falkirk tartan, which dates to around AD245 and was discovered in a jar of coins near Falkirk.