Hermitage Castle, Scotland

 

 

Hermitage Castle, Scotland (Mar 1999)

 

Located in what is known as the "Borders", the area of the Scottish lowlands that borders England, Hermitage Castle played a significant role in history in this turbulent area.

Known as the "Strength of Liddesdale", Hermitage has a gristly history, its' first owner having been boiled alive by the local populace for his misdeeds.

Massive blocky towers and walls rise from the marshy dale, making it very obvious that this was first and foremost a military structure. Its defenses did not rely on position, but on the marshy dales themselves, which inhibit the transport of heavy siege machinery.

Hermitage is located 15 kilometers south of Hawick along the B 6357, a one lane road. The castle was closed when we came to visit, as it is open only in the summer, and they charge approximately $4.00 per person. No public bathrooms available.

 

Hermitage was Sir Walter Scott's favorite castle and can be found in his portrait. (Image stolen ungraciously from a tour guide)

 

 

 

 

 

Hermitage Castles, Scotland (image stolen ungraciously from a tour guide)

 

 

 

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