Before Addressing the Haggis: A Tale of King George IV’s Visit to Scotland
As we prepare to celebrate the poetry of Robert Burns this 25 January, let us first regale you with the story of a momentous occasion in Scotland’s history, an event that stirred hearts and inspired such excitement that it became the talk of every town: King George IV’s visit to Scotland in August 1822.
It had been nearly 200 years since Scotland had been graced with the personal presence of her monarch. Thus, the visit of King George IV was met with unparalleled joy and interest. The public’s eagerness to learn every detail of His Majesty’s time in Scotland was so great that the Edinburgh newspapers could not keep up with the demand. Even though these publications printed far more copies than usual, they were quickly sold out. Such was the fervour, that complete sets of newspapers from this period were sold for the princely sum of five guineas, a clear testament to the significance of the occasion.
The need to supply the public with a thorough yet affordable historical account of this royal visit gave rise to a remarkable publication, chronicling every detail of this extraordinary event. One of these, a rare little book owned by our curator Alexandra Loske, was An Account of George IV’s visit to Edinburgh, August 1822, published by John Anderson 1822. This work not only recorded the King’s time in Scotland, but also included much original and fascinating material to satisfy the insatiable appetite for news.
Among the treasures of this publication was a striking portrait of King George IV himself. This likeness was, allegedly, the only genuine and accurate depiction of the King available at the time and captured His Majesty in all his regal splendour.
That said, not all of George’s choices on this visit escaped public comment. For his Highland dress, the King embraced tartan with enthusiasm, but his kilt was notably on the short side. Ever quick with wit, the newspapers quipped,
A statement that perhaps revealed as much about Scottish humour as it did about the King’s wardrobe.
Despite any sartorial missteps, King George IV’s visit left a lasting legacy. Not only did he bring grandeur and ceremony to Scotland, but he also extended kindness by donating money to several Scottish charities during his stay. His generosity underscored a genuine desire to connect with the people he visited.
The influence of this historic visit is visible even today. Edinburgh’s New Town is home to an imposing sculpture of the King, created by the renowned artist Sir Francis Leggatt Chantrey. This same artist also sculpted the grand marble bust of George IV displayed in the Entrance Hall of the Royal Pavilion estate. Indeed, Chantrey’s work connects these two iconic locations, as another version of the Edinburgh statue resides at the north end of the Royal Pavilion gardens, further cementing the King’s enduring presence in our shared history.
The visit of King George IV was a watershed moment in Scottish history, blending royal pomp with a revival of national pride and identity. It inspired great pageantry, with the King famously donning Highland dress to honour the traditions of Scotland a gesture that, for all its quirks, endeared him to many.
So, as you address the haggis tonight, raise a toast, not just to the Bard of Ayrshire, but to the historical ties that bind Scotland and her monarchy. Let the tale of King George IV’s visit remind us of the enduring pride and passion that define the Scottish spirit.