Hermitage Castle

Scotland > South of Scotland > Roxburghshire > Hermitage Castle

A vast roofless ruin standing in a beautiful but lonely spot. It has an impression of foreboding, reflecting perhaps its grim past. As a stronghold of the Douglas's it was witness to many a cruel deed. Mary Queen of Scots almost died of a fever caught here in 1566.

Located off the B6399, Hawick to Newcastleton road, 6 miles north of Newcastleton.

Hermitage Castle stopped being used in the early 1600s. By the 18th century it was reknowned as a lonely and romantic ruin. Sir Walter Scott had it painted in the background of his portrait. The then owner, undertook extensive repairs which kept the exterior walls together until the castle was placed under Historic Scotland's care in 1930's.