Scottish Baronial Tenure - Barons, Lords & Earls

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Known as a prescriptive barony, this title, when recognized by The Lord Lyon, represents the lowest rank of Scottish feudal nobility. There were roughly 350 identifiable baronies in Scotland by the early fifteenth century - largely contiguous with local parishes. Originally established by Crown Charter and held in baroneum, these grant the status of "minor baron" but not peerage.

While still technically a "barony," feudal lordships represent the second highest degree of Scottish feudal nobility. Also held in baroneum, there are only, perhaps, two dozen examples extant today. Recent Lords Lyon have previously recognized quite a few - including Abernethy, Dirleton, Garioch, Kilmarnock & Jedburgh Forest. 

The highest of the three levels of feudal baronies, feudal earldoms are the most noble species of prescriptive barony in Scotland. Very rare in number, recent Lords Lyon have only recognized a handful of feudal earldoms - including Arran, Breadlebane, Crawfurd-Lindsay & Rothes.