Midhope Castle

Midhope Castle is a 16th-century tower house in Scotland. The derelict castle that can be seen today represents the much-altered 5-storey, oblong tower house.

In 1678, Midhope was given a facelift when an entrance tower was removed and the extension to the east was heightened and extended. A new doorway was added along with a small courtyard.

In the 15th-century Midhope belonged to the Martin family. During the latter 16th century, the castle belonged to Alexander Drummond of Midhope, brother to Robert Drummond of Carnock, Master of Work to the Crown of Scotland. A stone inscribed 'AD 1582 MB' commemorates Alexander and his wife Marjory Bruce.

A painted ceiling from the tower survives in the care of Historic Scotland at Edinburgh; it is planned to be put on public display at the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It includes cinquefoil motifs and probably commemorates the marriage of Sir Robert Drummond, who became laird in 1619, to a Hamilton heiress. The family motto was 'ad astra per ardua' and fragments from another painted ceiling had gold stars, represented in the crest of the coat of arms.

A large, two-chambered, oblong, late 17th century dovecot sits about 140 metres (150 yd) to the southeast.

Address
South Queensferry, United Kingdom

Established
16th century