This evening, I am focusing on Hermitage Castle, a massive harsh and austere building set in the remote, rolling hills of the Scottish Borders.

The castle played a central role in the Anglo-Scottish wars. It was built by the de Soulis family in 1242 but was lost to the family in 1320. It subsequently came under English control and ultimately the Hepburns in the 15th century. Mary Queen of Scots visited an injured James Hepburn at the Castle in 1566 via a 50 mile ride on horseback which triggered a chill which in turn nearly killed her.

The Castle became obsolete in the 17th century and abandoned.

This awesome and powerful building is deserving of a visit.

Labels: castles

posted by Nigel Cole @ 12:27 PM