Ali Campbell denied hotel stay due to ancient clan feud
- Ali Campbell, traveling through Scotland, was turned away from a hotel due to his surname.
- The dismissal was linked to a historic feud stemming from the Glencoe massacre in 1692.
- Campbell's experience illustrates the enduring impact of historical animosities on contemporary interactions.
In a surprising encounter in Scotland, Ali Campbell, the lead singer of UB40, experienced the harsh implications of a historical clan feud during his travels. While journeying from Land's End to John O'Groats, Campbell attempted to book a stay at a hotel in the Scottish Highlands, close to Inverness. Upon signing the guest book, the hotel staff confronted him about his surname, informing him that Campbells were not welcome. This denial is rooted in the notorious Glencoe massacre of 1692, where members of Clan Campbell carried out a brutal attack on the MacDonald Clan, leading to a long-standing animosity that persists in some areas of Scotland today. Campbell expressed his shock and disappointment over the incident, highlighting that the stigma surrounding the Campbell name continues to affect individuals over three centuries after the tragic events at Glencoe. He contrasted this unwelcome experience with his upcoming performance at the Hammersmith Apollo in London, expressing a desire for a more hospitable reception at the venue. Campbell’s statement reflects ongoing sentiments about historical feuds in Scottish culture and raises questions about the relevance of such ancient grievances in contemporary society. His experience serves as a reminder that the past can still cast long shadows on the present, influencing interactions and perceptions, particularly in regions rich with clan history and legacy.