Is This a Scam? Here's the Truth About Novelty Scottish Titles

We understand that there’s been growing conversation online, particularly on Reddit and YouTube, about whether novelty Scottish titles are a scam. It's important to address this directly: these titles are not a scam—they’re a fun, symbolic gift rooted in a unique Scottish legal tradition.

Let us clarify a few key points to help you understand exactly what you're buying.

1. Souvenir Plots and Scottish Law

Some videos and online discussions incorrectly claim that selling souvenir plots is illegal. This is not true.

Under Scottish law, souvenir plots (small plots of land sold for commemorative purposes) cannot be officially registered in the Scottish Land Registry. This means the ownership isn’t recorded in the government database—but that doesn’t mean the plot isn’t yours in a meaningful way.

Instead, souvenir plots are sold via a legally binding contract. Think of it this way: if your neighbour gives you written permission to use their garden forever in exchange for a one-time payment, and you both sign that agreement, it’s legally enforceable in civil court—even if you’re not listed as the garden’s owner in official land records. This is the same legal principle that applies here.

Our customers receive a permanent right of access and leisure use over their plot, clearly outlined in our certificate. This right can be passed on to your heirs. It’s a fun, symbolic gesture of landownership—with a legal foundation.

2. The Titles: Laird, Lord, or Lady

In Scotland, landowners have traditionally been referred to as “Lairds”—a historical Scottish term that doesn’t have a direct English translation. The closest equivalents are “Lord” or “Lady of the Manor,” which are commonly used in this context.

There are two types of titles in the UK:

Noble peerage titles, like those who sit in the House of Lords—these are recognised by the Crown and the Lord Lyon.
Manorial or landowner titles, which are symbolic and tied to ownership or stewardship of land.

We never claim that purchasing a novelty title gives you a noble peerage or any legal status with the Crown. Rather, this is a symbolic title connected to a souvenir plot of land—a playful, commemorative experience that makes for a unique gift.

3. Tree Planting and Environmental Contributions

Some criticisms have focused on environmental claims. To clarify: we do not plant trees ourselves on our land. Instead, we donate to credible reforestation charities like One Tree Planted, which carry out this important work globally.

We’ve always been transparent about this, and when customers ask, we’re happy to explain exactly how their purchase supports these environmental efforts.

4. Reputation, Transparency & Customer Expectations

There have been comparisons to other companies in this space that may operate with less transparency or are based overseas. We believe it’s unfair to label an entire industry based on the actions of a few. We’re proud to be transparent, with a virtual office, local contact number, and a mailing address based in Glasgow.

Most of our customers understand that this is a novelty item—a lighthearted gift meant to bring joy, laughter, and a little taste of Scotland. We do occasionally hear from people who expect more—like citizenship or a seat in the House of Lords—for $50. While that’s obviously not what we offer, those misunderstandings are rare.

5. A Legally Sound, Lighthearted Gift

Businesses like ours have even been challenged in court—and consistently upheld as operating legally. The concept may seem unusual to some, but that’s part of the charm. It’s a blend of Scottish tradition, symbolic ownership, and novelty gifting.

At the end of the day, this is about fun, heritage, and gifting something memorable. If you’re looking for a unique way to connect with Scottish culture or give someone a title with a twist, this is it.

We’re proud to offer our customers a way to feel connected to Scotland—and to share in its charm, humour, and history.