Hermitage Castle

Hermitage Castle is a semi-ruined castle situated south from Hawick (Scottish Gaelic: Hamhaig) in the Scottish Borders off the B6399 road towards the village of Newcastleton (Scottish Gaelic: Baile a' Chaisteil Nuadh). This medieval border castle is constructed on the site of an original structure built in about 1240 by Nicholas de Soules. It is in a strategic position given it's proximity to the English border. The present structure was built from about 1360 and subsequently has been remodelled and adapted. It was abandoned in the early seventeenth century and there continues to be local legend of the castle being associated with witchcraft and hauntings. 

The castle is noted for its sinister appearance and atmosphere. This adds to the stories of witchcraft and haunting associated with the fortress. The castle has changed hands on a number of occasions. It was lost to the descendants of Nicholas de Soulis who originally built the castle in about 1240. It stayed in his family until approximately 1320. It was then forfeited when William II de Soules was involved in a conspiracy against King Robert I of Scotland along with Sir David, Lord of Brechin. 

According to local folklore William II de Soules was involved with the Black Arts. It was said that he had been taught by Michael Scot, the "wizard of the North". Michael Scot (1175 – c. 1232) was a mathematician and scholar in the Middle Ages. His reputation for the dark arts is thought to be associated with his manuscripts dealing with astrology, alchemy and the occult sciences generally. 

Local legend says that in retaliation for his cruelty, locals boiled William II de Soules alive at Ninestane Rig. This is a small stone circle thought to have been made in around 2000 BC and 1250 BC.  Legend has it that he had a familiar. Familiars being super natural beings that assist witches and this one is known as called Robin Redcap. The redcap (or powrie) is a type of malevolent, murderous goblin found in Border folklore. Hermitage Castle is reputed to be haunted by this Redcap. In reality it is said that William de Soullis actuality died when a prisoner, in Dumbarton Castle. His familair is not the only spectre associated with Hermitage Castle as it is also said to be haunted by Mary, Queen of Scots. The castle was said to be the location of a rendezvous between Mary Queen of Scots and her lover the Earl of Bothwell.  It is open to the public and in the care of Historic Environment Scotland (HES) (Scottish Gaelic: Àrainneachd Eachdraidheil Alba.

Image: Hermitage Castle in 1814, Liddesdale, Scottish Borders.

Link: Historic Environment Scotland - Àrainneachd Eachdraidheil Alba