Kennedy
Clan Kennedy is a noble Scottish clan with deep political influence and royal connections in the southwest. The Kennedy Tartan embodies this legacy of leadership and heritage, available in a collection of thoughtfully crafted clothing and décor that honors Clan Kennedy’s proud lineage.
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Kennedy Tartan (Original)
Kennedy Ancient Tartan
Kennedy Modern Tartan
Kennedy Weathered Tartan
Kennedy Tartans
4 variations
The Kennedy Tartan presents a distinguished and layered design rooted in Scottish tradition. It showcases a deep forest green base, interwoven with broad navy blue and black bands that lend depth and gravitas. Thin red overchecks form a classic grid structure, while subtle purple lines and narrow golden yellow stripes intersect at intervals, adding just the right touch of brightness and contrast. This elegant balance of rich and refined tones captures the enduring legacy and character of Clan Kennedy.
Common variations of this tartan include: Kennedy Tartan, Kennedy Ancient Tartan, Kennedy Modern Tartan, and Kennedy Weathered Tartan
Explore the history of Clan Kennedy
How it all started
Territories
Clan Kennedy traces its origins to Celtic and Norman roots, emerging as a powerful Lowland family in southwestern Scotland. The Kennedys rose to prominence in Carrick, Ayrshire, where they held extensive lands and became hereditary Bailies of Carrick. Their ancestral seat was at Culzean Castle, a dramatic clifftop fortress overlooking the Firth of Clyde, which later became a symbol of clan prestige. By the 15th century, the Kennedys were among the most influential noble families in the region, with titles including Lord Kennedy and later the Earls of Cassillis. Their loyalty to the Scottish Crown and political influence cemented their place in national affairs for centuries.
Clan Chief
The current Chief of Clan Kennedy is David Thomas Kennedy, the 9th Marquess of Ailsa. As head of the clan, he represents a noble lineage that continues to be honored through the clan society and heritage events. The Kennedy crest—a dolphin supported by a collar—and their motto “Avise la fin” (Consider the end) reflect the clan’s maritime strength and thoughtful legacy. Today, descendants of the Kennedys around the world take pride in their history and gather to preserve its traditions.
Cassillis House
Cassillis Castle
Location: Near Maybole, South Ayrshire, Scotland
Cassillis Castle, nestled on the banks of the River Doon in South Ayrshire, served as the ancestral seat of Clan Kennedy, one of the most influential Lowland clans of medieval Scotland. The castle’s origins trace back to the 15th century, when the Kennedys established themselves as hereditary sheriffs of Carrick.
Surrounded by wooded estates and fertile farmland, Cassillis became a symbol of Kennedy authority in the southwest. The castle was significantly expanded during the 16th century, reflecting the clan’s growing political stature as they rose to become the Earls of Cassillis.
The surrounding lands of Carrick — now part of modern South Ayrshire — were historically the heartland of Clan Kennedy. With control over key coastal routes and inland trade, the Kennedys maintained regional power through both diplomacy and feudal allegiance.
Today, Cassillis Castle stands as a private residence but remains an enduring landmark of Kennedy heritage, representing centuries of influence in the western Lowlands.