Celebrating the life of Jim Clark

Jim Clark is thought of as one of motorsport’s greatest drivers. His victory average of 34.25% remains the highest of any Formula One driver to this day! 

Jim was raised in the small town of Duns, which just so happens to be where ScotlandShop HQ is based and his legacy lives on here in our shared hometown. 
 
To us Jim Clark represents the heart of the Borders' quiet determination, world-class talent, and an enduring connection to home. 

Jim Clark

Jim Clark was born on March 4, 1936, in Kilmany, Fife, but was raised on a wee sheep farm near Duns in the Scottish Borders. From a young age, he showed a remarkable affinity for speed and machinery. Though his family initially disapproved of motorsport, Clark continued to pursue his passion quietly, entering local races and hill climbs, all in borrowed cars. It didn’t take long for the motorsport world to notice his talent. By 1958, he was racing competitively in Formula Junior, and soon after, he caught the attention of Team Lotus. 

Before we move on to his motoring career, we wanted to take a moment to look at Jim’s family tartan.  While the Clark surname has its own tartan and a link to the Clergy tartan, Jim Clark chose to wear the Cameron of Erracht, a bold and Highland tartan originally worn by the Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders. You can discover the Cameron of Erracht tartan along with over 500 more at our HQ and Showroom in Duns, our shared hometown with Jim Clark.

The exact reason for his choice isn’t known, but it was likely influenced by his maternal ancestry, a family tradition, or simply personal or familial preference which is quite common. If you need any help in tracking down your own family tartan why not book our ancestry, clan and tartan experience? 

We love this photo which was taken for the Lotus 1965 Calendar of Jim sporting his Cameron of Erracht Ancient Tartan Kilt atop his everyday road car, Lotus Elan. This quiet nod to his heritage reminds us that, while Clark became a global motorsport icon, he remained deeply connected to Scotland’s traditions.

Image Credit: Tony Marsh/Live Borders

We think he'd be pretty proud to have seen his great, great nephew Callum recreating this famous image to celebrate the opening of The Jim Clark Motorsport Museum in 2019. 

Jim Clark’s professional career racing began in 1960 when he made his Formula One debut with Team Lotus. His smooth driving style, technical skill, and fearless composure set him apart on the world stage. In just 72 Grand Prix starts, Clark claimed 25 wins, 33 podiums, and 33 pole positions, that's some record! 

His versatility also saw him compete successfully in touring cars, Formula Two, IndyCar, and even sports cars. Despite his fame, Clark remained modest and deeply connected to his Scottish roots. He was widely respected not only for his achievements but also for his character.

Jim Clark at the 1967 USGP in Watkins Glen, NY | Image Credit: By Rtsanderson - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0

The year 1965 stands out as the crowning moment of Clark’s career. He won his second Formula One World Championship that season, driving the Lotus 33 with unparalleled precision. In May of that year, he made history by winning the Indianapolis 500, becoming the first non-American winner since 1916. No other driver has won both the F1 World Championship and the Indy 500 in the same year. If that wasn't enough he also added the Tasman Series title to his name, dominating the off-season races in Australia and New Zealand. 1965 was a testament to his global prowess and unshakable focus.

Jim Clark's legacy was tragically cut short on April 7, 1968, when he was killed in a Formula Two race at Hockenheim, Germany. His death sent shockwaves through the motorsport world and left an enduring sense of loss, not only because of his remarkable talent but also because of the humility and grace with which he carried it. In the years since, his name has become synonymous with excellence, and his influence continues to shape the sport today.

Jim Clark's Gravestone in Chirnside | Image Credit: Leo A Capaldi - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0

The Jim Clark Trust is a Scottish Charitable Organisation dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of Jim Clark through heritage, education, and inspiration. The trust finds its roots in the Jim Clark Memorial Room, opened in Duns in 1969 by his parents James and Helen. 

The Jim Clark Trust was formally established in 2015 to support & fund the redevelopment of the Jim Clark Memorial Room into the Jim Clark Motorsport Museum. 

In addition to the Motorsport Museum, the Trust also manages the Jim Clark Café Bistro and the Jim Clark Trail, with all profits reinvested into the local community to support tourism, culture, and economic growth in the Scottish Borders, the place Jim Clark cherished and called home. 

The Trust plays a vital role in raising funds for conservation, promoting road safety awareness, and encouraging young talent in motorsport, while benefiting from the guidance of high-profile patrons, including Honorary President Sir Jackie Stewart OBE. As a small charity, it relies on the support of dedicated volunteers who contribute to ensure Jim Clark’s inspirational story continues to reach future generations.

Jim Clark Motorsport Museum | Image Credit: Tony Marsh/Live Borders

After many years of work in partnership with Scottish Borders Council & Live Borders the Jim Clark Motorsport Museum opened its doors in Duns on the 11th July 2019. It's a beautifully curated space celebrating Clark’s life and achievements. 

Visitors can explore Jim's original trophies, racing suits, and two of his actual race cars. The interactive exhibits provide insight into his career and it's safe to say after giving the racing simulator a try during my own visit I won't be following in his footsteps any time soon! 

Just a short walk from the museum, the Jim Clark Café Bistro offers a warm and welcoming spot to relax and reflect. 

Jim Clark Café Bistro | Image Credit: The Jim Clark Trust

Themed with subtle nods to Clark’s life and racing era, it serves locally sourced food in a lovely setting. The bistro is a favourite among visitors, and the ScotlandShop team alike, providing a unique place to connect with Clark’s story over a cup of coffee or a hearty Borders meal. After refuelling at the bistro, why not take a short walk or drive to visit our Duns showroom? 

The Jim Clark Trail was launched in February 2020 and is a self-guided journey through the landscapes, stories, and landmarks that shaped one of Scotland’s greatest sporting heroes. 

Beginning at the Jim Clark Motorsport Museum in Duns, the route leads through his home village of Chirnside before crossing the border into England and the historic town of Berwick-upon-Tweed. Following the River Tweed, the trail then continues to Norham Castle and the Union Chain Bridge, the world’s oldest wrought iron suspension bridge. It also includes two former WWII airfields at Winfield and Charterhall, where a generation of racing legends once took to the track.

Jim Clark Trail | Image Credit: The Jim Clark Trust

The 50 mile route is a journey through motorsport history, rich Borders heritage, and some of the most scenic countryside in the UK (we're not biased at all!). Trail maps and tour guide leaflets, complete with sat nav codes and insights, are available at the Jim Clark Motorsport Museum or on the Jim Clark Trust website. 

The connection between Jim Clark and Lotus was nothing short of legendary, a symbiotic relationship that defined an era of Formula 1 and beyond. The partnership was so strong that Lotus continues to honour Clark today. The Clark Edition Emira is a moving tribute to one of motorsport’s greatest talents. Created by Lotus to mark 60 years since Jim Clark’s legendary 1965 season, every detail of this limited-edition model tells part of his story. With only 60 cars worldwide, it’s a rare celebration of heritage, design and racing spirit.

Lotus Emira Clark Edition & Type 32B Static | Image Credit: Lotus Cars

The deep Indy Green paint & Hethel Yellow stripes instantly connects us back to the colours of Clark’s iconic Lotus racers. Our favourite touch has to be the bespoke interior badge featuring the Cameron of Erracht tartan, which as we discussed, he wore himself. 

Although the Emira is a two-seater, in this special edition, Lotus have given the driver the limelight with a striking red seat to represent Clark's own racing seat. For anyone inspired by this combination of tradition and innovation, it’s a great reminder that cars can carry meaning as well as performance. Whether it’s a nod to your family tartan, a personal memory, or a unique design vision, tartan car upholstery offers a way to create something truly your own. Just like the Clark Edition, your story can live in the details. Find out more in our guide to Tartan Car Upholstery. 

It's not only Lotus who've dedicated design to Clark's Legacy. Lime Rock Park, nestled in the hills of Connecticut, is one of North America’s most historic and beloved road racing circuits. Since 1957, it has welcomed generations of motorsport legends and fans to its fast, flowing corners and scenic natural surroundings. Clark’s grace behind the wheel and humble demeanour captivated those who saw him race, and Lime Rock Park has always held a deep admiration for him. 

In 2023, to honour both their rich heritage and inspired by Jim Clark's legacy, Lime Rock Park approached ScotlandShop with a special commission: to design an official Lime Rock Park tartan that captured the spirit of the circuit and paid tribute to the Scottish legend who helped shape the story of Motorsport. Given our roots in the Scottish Borders, the same region Clark called home, we were incredibly proud to take on the challenge.

We’re proud to be part of the Jim Clark 60th Anniversary Celebration Weekend, taking place on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th June 2025 in our shared hometown of Duns, Scottish Borders and you’re invited to join us for a truly unforgettable event.

This special weekend marks the significant milestone of celebrating 60 years since Jim Clark’s legendary 1965 season. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the racing scene, the event promises to be a thrilling tribute to one of racing’s all-time greats. Running from 10:00am to 4:00pm on both days, each day offers a full programme of motorsport, heritage, and community.

ScotlandShop will be there with our tartan tent and over 500 tartans to explore including the Cameron of Erracht, famously worn by Jim Clark himself. Drop by to browse our kilts, trews, caps, and more, or chat with us about adding a tartan touch to your car’s interior or even designing your own tartan. 

Established in 1970, just two years after Jim Clark’s untimely passing, the Jim Clark Rally was created as a living tribute to one of motorsport’s most iconic figures. Based in the Scottish Borders, where Clark was born and raised, the rally has grown into one of the most prestigious events on the UK motorsport calendar. It holds a unique place in history as the only closed-road rally on mainland Britain, offering a rare and thrilling experience for drivers and spectators alike.

Jim Clark Rally 2024 | Imade Credit: Toby Marshall-Andrew

Over the decades, the rally has built a global reputation for its fast, technical stages, set against a backdrop of rolling countryside, winding lanes, and traditional Borders villages. It attracts top-tier drivers and teams from across the UK and beyond, all eager to test their skills on the very roads that shaped Clark’s early driving style. From newcomers to seasoned professionals, everyone recognises the significance of competing in an event that carries the name of a world champion.

Each year, the town of Duns bursts into life as fans from around the world descend on the area to soak up the electric atmosphere. The rally is a full community celebration. Local businesses thrive, streets are lined with cheering spectators, and there’s a shared sense of pride in keeping Jim Clark’s legacy alive. The rally generates over £1.1 million in revenue for the local economy, making it not only a motorsport highlight but a vital boost to the region.

Whether you're a rally enthusiast, a Clark devotee, or simply drawn to the buzz of high-performance motorsport in a breath taking setting, the Jim Clark Rally is a must-see event. 

Jim Clark may have conquered the world of motorsport, but his roots run deep in the Scottish Borders. Raised on a farm near Chirnside and spending much of his youth in Duns where ScotlandShop is proudly based Clark’s story is one of quiet determination, extraordinary talent, and a lasting connection to home.