The Royal Company of Archers, The King's Bodyguard for Scotland, is a ceremonial unit that serves as the Sovereign's bodyguard in Scotland—a role it has performed since 1822 during the reign of King George IV when the company provided a personal bodyguard to the King on his visit to Scotland. It is currently known as the King's Bodyguard for Scotland or, more often and colloquially, The Royal Company. It is located in Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland. The Royal Company of Archers has a long history in Scotland as a body that celebrated both the recreation and talent of local archers. As a body established by the Monarch, the company has a long history of unique prizes, influential supporters, and ceremonial roles. It has an associated charity, the Royal Company of Archers Charitable Trust, dedicated to helping disadvantaged individuals with their health and wellbeing in Scotland.
Members of the company on parade at the landing of King George IV at Leith in 1822. Detail from a painting by Alexander Carse.
The Royal Company of Archers outside Edinburgh Castle
One of the current standards of the Royal Company of Archers
Original Royal Company of Archers uniform tunic and short trews as worn by Archibald Grant of Monymusk, painted 1715 by Richard Waitt
Visit of George IV to Scotland
George IV's visit to Scotland in 1822 was the first visit of a reigning monarch to Scotland in nearly two centuries, the last being by Charles II for his Scottish coronation in 1651. Government ministers had pressed the King to bring forward a proposed visit to Scotland, to divert him from diplomatic intrigue at the Congress of Verona.
David Wilkie's flattering portrait of the kilted King George IV, with lighting chosen to tone down the brightness of his kilt and his knees shown bare, without the pink tights he actually wore at the event.
Contemporary caricature of the kilted King George IV.
The Royal George at Leith.
Detail from a painting by Alexander Carse showing the King landing at Leith, which remains hanging in Leith Town Hall.