In a historic ceremony at Edinburgh Castle, Major General Bob Bruce CBE DSO was formally installed as His Majesty’s Governor of Edinburgh Castle, according to an official statement from the British Army.
The role of Governor of Edinburgh Castle dates back to the early 12th century and serves as the King’s representative within the Castle, symbolising the enduring connection between the Castle and the Army in Scotland.
Major General Bruce, who took up the position in September 2024, was officially affirmed in the role during the ceremony on 2 May 2025.
Reflecting on the appointment, Major General Bruce said, “It is a great honour for me to be installed as Governor of Edinburgh Castle. To occupy this post is to embrace a tremendous legacy and responsibility. The Castle is a symbol of the connection between the Army and our country. To serve as Governor is to serve that story.”
Major General Bruce has had a long and distinguished military career, retiring from the Regular Army in 2020 after serving as Military Secretary and General Officer Scotland. He remains active as an Army Reservist and is well respected within both the military and civilian communities.
The ceremony at Edinburgh Castle was steeped in tradition and pageantry. The Lord Lyon King of Arms, His Majesty’s Officers of Arms, and the State Trumpeters of Scotland were integral to the proceedings. The Guard of Honour was formed by Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion (BKA Coy 5 SCOTS), The Royal Regiment of Scotland, and Inkerman Company, 1st Battalion The Grenadier Guards.
The ceremony featured musical support from the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, while the Governor’s Piper, Senior Pipe Major Warrant Officer Class One Colin Simpson from the Army School of Bagpipe Music and Highland Drumming, provided a traditional accompaniment.
