This castle consists of a 14th Century rectangular tower house which was extended by the addition of a keep-guardhouse in the early 15th Century, and than another wing was added and completed later in the 16th century.

The home to two of the most infamous Scottish families, the Crichtons and the Bothwells, this structure was fortunately spared destruction despite an order by the crown to raze the building.

Geographically Crichton castle is about 30 kilometers southeast of Edinburgh, just follow the A 7 south towards Hawick and follow the signs. It is located another 5 or 6 kilometers off of the main road. Nearby Crichton castle is another castle ruins, located on private land but viewable from the road. We were at his time unable to determine which castle this used to be. After you hit the car park, there is a 200m walk through the rolling countryside to the castle proper.

The castle was closed at the time of our visit, (for the winter) admission however is charged and the rates were posted at around $4.00 per person. No bathrooms appeared to be available.