Kilted in London

**Freelancer** · 31st July 09, 11:53 AM

This thread posted yesterday...

http://www.xmarksthescot.com/forum/i...x.html?t=51644

...talks about US kilties visiting Scotland. I found it quite informative since I'll be visiting Scotland in August. I'd like to further the question to include London, as I'll also be visiting there for a few days. So, what's the general vibe in London as you go about kitled. Thanks for the info!

**paulhenry** · 31st July 09, 12:09 PM

I live on the outskirts of London, I go into"town" once a week or so, and I am usually kilted, there are the odd comments, nothing unusual or any that cause any problems, if I'm in a tartan kilt I usually get asked for a photograph, if I;m in a denim or camo I usually end up chatting to someone about it.
Please let me know when you plan to visit, I'd be very happy to meet fro a drink or a coffee

**McClef** · 31st July 09, 12:16 PM

Londoners are used to seeing all kinds of dress so shouldn't be a problem.

**Stratherrick** · 31st July 09, 12:22 PM

I've never been out in the 'smoke' in a kilt, only Newcastle upon Tyne. Up here you get favourable comments, nothing anti-Scots as we're too near the border and anybody 'trying it on' wouldn't know how many Jocks there might be in the pub!

Remember, the only time Londoners would have seen a kilt on the streets, as opposed to at a wedding/funeral, would have been 25-30 years ago when the annual old Home Internationals football competition used to be running! They were stopped after 100 years due to the violence, but that was a lonnnng time ago.

I'd expect you to get 'the question', a few sniggers in the corner but, overall, a positive response.

Slainte

Bruce

**acaig** · 31st July 09, 12:25 PM

I have worn a kilt in London many times and had many admiring glances. I did get a very small number of longer glances whilst also holding a boyfriend's hand at the same time .

**GMan** · 31st July 09, 12:34 PM

Any large urban area would seem to be no problem, I see London would be the same, no problem.

**Hamish** · 2nd August 09, 10:53 AM

Absolutely no problem! I am in London about 12 times a year and always kilted. As Paul says, tartan kilts attract cameras and, unless I am in a hurry to get somewhere, I seldom refuse stopping for a snap or two - it's good for PR!! Yes, of course, there are the glances and the double-takes but it has been a very long while since I have been aware of sniggers or impolite comments.

Just step out with an air of confidence and you'll be fine.

Take care,
Ham.

**scottography** · 3rd August 09, 01:13 AM

I recently spent a holiday in London kilted and had many positive comments (from many attractive girls too!). People stopping to chat and ask questions. Was such a great way to meet the locals.

One lady of mature age stopped my brother and I as we were walking down the street and started to chat... all was going well until she propositioned my brother (who was unkilted) and I to join her in some "activity". HAhaha. Was so funny! We just politely turned her down, spoke a little of the weather and headed on our way. How else could you imagine such a priceless conversation coming up?! We'll be recalling that one for years!

Scotty