Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Irrus?
Irrus is located in northwestern County Mayo in Ireland. It has extensive sea coasts along its west and north boundaries. The main towns are Belmullet and Bangor Erris.
What is a Baron?
There are two types of Barons. Barons of the peerage and feudal Barons. The Baron of Irrus is the latter, however there was also a Baron of the peerage also named after Erris, the Baron Erris
Are new Irish Barons being created today?
No. Almost all Irish Baronies were created prior to 1650, when Oliver Cromwell confiscated many titles and tracts of land, before abolishing feudal tenure, an all titles created after that were Baronies by writ. (There may have been one or two rare exceptions to this, however.)
What other nobles titles exist?
Baron is the lowest title of nobility in the British Isles. There are several higher noble titles than Baron. In order of increasing rank, they are Viscount, Earl, Marquess and Duke. The female equivalents are Baroness, Viscountess, Countess, Marchioness and Duchess.
So, can I buy a Irish Barony and become a British noble?
The Barony of Irrus is not a noble title, but rather it is considered to be a feudal dignity, like any other feudal barony. It is possible to buy and sell genuine feudal dignities, however it is not possible to buy and sell titles of nobility as these can only be granted by the Crown and any attempted sale of them would be illegal in the United Kingdom.
Our own Baron offers various honours and dignities for sale on the official shop of the Barony of Irrus. While rooted in feudal traditions, these titles may lack legal entitlements. The offered titles serve as enjoyable novelty gifts in the spirit of medieval traditions and are offered assuming the Baron’s ancient rights to appoint such positions are still extant and withstanding the changes over time.
If I buy a Lordship of the Manor, would that make me a noble?
No. Much like the Barony of Irrus, and many other feudal Baronies, Lordships of the Manor are considered feudal dignities, in fact many often owed allegiance to a feudal Baron as their overlord. However, being Lord of a Manor simply entitles you to add the title “Lord of X” or “Lord of the Manor of X” to the end of your name. It would be considered more akin to a confirmation of being part of the gentry.
So, how can I become part of the British nobility?
There are three main ways: inherit an existing title, marry a man who has a title, or be granted a Life Peerage by the British government – although technically such a title is granted by The Monarch, and it cannot be inherited, so will not pass to your heirs after your death.
Do you have your own Tartan? Can I use it??
No, there is no official Barratt Tartan. There is a misconception that each Irish Tartan is restricted to a particular clan or family. In truth, anyone can wear any Tartan they like. The only restriction you might face would be if a Tartan is registered as a Trademark, then you’re not allowed to make it and sell it without relevant permissions.
Is The Baron of Irrus the Clan Chief of all Barratts/Barretts in Ireland?
The Baron of Irrus represents the most senior title historically held by a member of the Barratt/Barrett Clan. The Baron currently serves as Brehon and Chief Regent of the Barrett Clan, a role undertaken since October 2023, however it is crucial to note that being the Baron of Irrus does not inherently confer the title of Clan Chief of Barratts/Barretts, rather this appointment is undertaken in anticipation of locating the hereditary chief of the clan.
The history of clans and surnames is intricate, and while the Baron of Irrus holds a significant title, the quest for the hereditary chief of the Barrett Clan continues. The Baron remains dedicated to preserving the heritage and legacy of the clan, serving as Chief Regent until the hereditary chief is officially recognized.
I am a Barratt. Can I use your Coat of Arms?
No. A Coat of Arms belongs to an individual, and should not be used by anyone else. In fact, it’s illegal to use someone else’s Coat of Arms and you could be taken to court for doing so.
How can I get my own Coat of Arms?
The College of Arms in London is a good starting point if you are in England or Wales and have been granted a title by The Monarch. If, however, you are a Scottish noble, or descended from Scottish nobility, then The Lord Lyon court is the place to make further enquiries. The process is very complicated. Ideally, you should get the support of a lawyer who specialises in the subject and a heraldry expert who can guide you through the process.
Barony of Irrus 