Hermitage Castle is a massive medieval ruin in Liddesdale, near Newcastleton and Hawick in the Scottish Borders. Its stark stone walls and isolated setting reflect its role in controlling the Anglo-Scottish border, and its history includes treason, murder and Mary, Queen of Scots. Inside, you can explore the castle and its stairs and gantries; information boards help bring the site’s past into focus. A path also leads to the ruins of a chapel and graveyard beside the river. The remote location rewards travelers with an interest in castles and border history.
A fortress on the Anglo-Scottish border
Hermitage Castle stands in Liddesdale, near Newcastleton and Hawick, in a remote part of the Scottish Borders. Its position reflects the conflicts that shaped this border region: during the Middle Ages, the castle helped control the Anglo-Scottish frontier. Its scale and heavy stone construction make that military role easy to understand.
The castle is associated with a history of treason and murder, as well as the political tensions of the Borders. Mary, Queen of Scots, is also linked to the site. Her visit to the castle to see James Hepburn, Earl of Bothwell, contributed to a change in public opinion against her.
Exploring the castle ruins
The main structure is a substantial stone ruin. When the interior is open, visitors can go inside and explore its stairs and gantries. Information boards around the site explain its history, so allow time to read them as you move through the remains.
The castle’s remote setting is part of the visit. The surrounding hills and quiet landscape give the ruins a strong sense of isolation, though the location also means reaching the site takes planning. The drive from the A7 is scenic.
The chapel and graveyard
A path from the castle leads to the remains of a small chapel and its graveyard, close to the river. They add another stop to the visit beyond the fortress itself. Leave time to walk over if you want to see both parts of the site.
Planning your visit
Hermitage Castle usually opens for exploration inside around Easter after its winter closure. Check current access before setting out, as maintenance or safety work can close sections of the building. The site is cash-only, so take cash for admission. Visitors with English Heritage membership may be eligible for a ticket discount.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Hermitage Castle?
It is in Liddesdale, near Newcastleton and Hawick in the Scottish Borders. The address is Newcastleton, Hawick, TD9 0LU.
When does Hermitage Castle open for visits inside?
It usually reopens around Easter after the winter closure. Check current access before travelling, as parts may be closed for maintenance or safety.
How long should you allow for a visit?
Allow about one to two hours to explore the castle and the nearby chapel ruins.
Can you pay by card at Hermitage Castle?
The site is listed as cash-only, so bring cash for admission.
