Hermitage Castle, Roxburghshire, United Kingdom

Hermitage Castle is a semi-ruined castle in the border region of Scotland. It stands in the remote valley of the Hermitage Water, part of Liddesdale in Roxburghshire. The castle has a reputation, both from its history and its appearance, as one of the most sinister and atmospheric castles in Scotland.

Hermitage Castle was supposedly built by one Nicholas de Soulis around 1240, in a typical Norman Motte and Bailey pattern. In the 14th century the castle was given to William Douglas, 1st Earl of Douglas. He enabled the construction of most of the present building.

The castle became obsolete after the Union of the Crowns, in 1603 and fell into disrepair; by the turn of the eighteenth century it was a ruin.

The castle remained a property of the Scotts until 1930, when it was handed over to the care of the Nation. It is now cared for by Historic Environment Scotland and is open to visitors in summer season.

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User Reviews

Jemimah Gillespie (25 days ago)
Beautiful and peaceful place. Not somewhere you would take the kids unless they are into their historic buildings. Just bare in mind tickets start from £2.30 for an hour's activity, if you look at everything and take your time. The car park is a layby that can fit about 12 cars in.

Alexis Stearns (38 days ago)
What an excellent piece of history in such a beautiful part of the countryside. Make sure you take a walk to the chapel and go down to the riverside too, it’s a gorgeous wee spot.

Sona Mlcochova (2 months ago)
Interesting place, amazing building, everything was nicely described. Few people around so we could enjoy it. Definitely stop there if you pass by.

Stephen Burchett (3 months ago)
Really enjoyed this visit. If you like ancient landscapes and archeology, this place is well worth a visit. Set in a beautiful valley with a quiet and seren atmosphere.

Ian Atkinson (4 months ago)
Surprisingly bigger than I realised and definitely underrated. Bearing in mind the history of this place I couldn't believe how quiet it was. An amazing historical site, well presented and the steward whose name I unfortunately forgot was very informative

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David Erskine, 11th Earl of Buchan bought the land in 1786. Sir Walter Scott and Douglas Haig are buried in its grounds.

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