Forbes Tartan
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Forbes Tartan
Forbes Ancient Tartan
Forbes Modern Tartan
Forbes Dress Tartan
Forbes Tartans
4 variations
The Forbes tartan design features dark green, navy, black, and white. The Modern version, as displayed here, is the primary tartan for the Clan. However, it's important to note that each tartan can have multiple variations, the most common of which are Forbes Ancient Tartan, Forbes Modern Tartan, and Forbes Dress Tartan. These variations differ primarily in color tones—Ancient versions use lighter, more faded hues to resemble natural dyes historically used, while Dress versions often incorporate more white to create a brighter appearance. The Ancient Forbes tartan, for instance, offers a softer and more weathered palette, appealing to those who favor a historical aesthetic.
Explore the history of Clan Forbes
How it all started
Territories
Clan Forbes emerged in Aberdeenshire, in the northeast of Scotland, where they established strongholds and exerted considerable influence across the region. Their lands stretched around the River Don and into the Grampian Mountains. From the 13th century onward, the Forbeses were loyal to the Scottish crown and frequently involved in defending the kingdom's interests. Their strategic location placed them at the heart of both political maneuvering and fierce feuds, most notably their historic rivalry with Clan Gordon.
Clan Chief
The current chief of Clan Forbes is Malcolm Nigel Forbes, 23rd Lord Forbes, making him the premier Lord of Scotland. The family’s traditional seat is Castle Forbes, located near Keig in Aberdeenshire, an elegant 19th-century baronial mansion that replaced the medieval Druminnor Castle. Castle Forbes remains a private residence and continues to be associated with the clan’s legacy. The Forbes name endures as a symbol of nobility, resilience, and deep-rooted Scottish heritage.
Castle Forbes
Location: Keig, Aberdeenshire, Scotland
Castle Forbes, located near the village of Keig in Aberdeenshire, is the historic seat of Clan Forbes— a prominent Lowland-Highland border clan whose legacy stretches back to the early 13th century. The Forbes family rose to prominence during the reign of King William the Lion and became fierce defenders of Scottish independence.
The castle, as it stands today, was built in the early 19th century on the site of an earlier house, and designed by architect Archibald Simpson in the Scottish baronial style. It replaced the original Druminnor Castle, which served as the family’s seat for centuries prior.
Clan Forbes was historically involved in regional feuds, particularly with their long-standing rivals, Clan Gordon. Despite the frequent hostilities of the past, the Forbeses were respected for their loyalty to the Scottish crown and their service in military and political affairs throughout the centuries.
Castle Forbes remains in the hands of the Forbes family today, serving both as a private residence and the base for the family’s ventures, including a luxury fragrance house that bears the same name. The castle and surrounding estate exemplify the quiet strength and resilience that characterize the Forbes legacy.
As one of the enduring Scottish clans, Clan Forbes continues to maintain its identity and presence, with Castle Forbes standing as a proud symbol of their heritage, traditions, and noble lineage.