Why King Charles Carries a Knife With His Kilt—And What It Means

Royal watchers were quick to spot a striking detail during King Charles’ recent visit to Scrabster Harbour: a dagger tucked into his sock. While dressed in full traditional Scottish attire, the monarch wore a skene-dhu, a ceremonial blade commonly paired with kilts.

The skene-dhu, legally permitted in the UK, is typically worn sheathed with just the hilt visible above the sock. It’s a traditional accessory King Charles has been seen wearing on multiple occasions during formal Scottish events.

The King is currently spending summer in Scotland, a long-standing royal tradition. However, unlike previous years at Balmoral Castle, Charles has chosen Birkhall, his beloved private retreat nearby.

According to former royal butler Paul Burrell, Charles prefers Birkhall’s quiet, intimate atmosphere—once owned by his grandmother.

Interestingly, Balmoral will remain open to the public until August 10, a shift from Queen Elizabeth II’s strict privacy policy. As Burrell noted, “She always said Balmoral was the only home that should stay private.”