Scottish Blog

Borthwick castle is a prime example of historic Scottish fortifications.

Borthwick Castle is located twelve miles southeast of Edinburgh, within the proximity of the village of Borthwick. It was originally constructed by Sir William Borthwick in 1430, the charter for its construction was granted by King James I as gratitude to Sir William Borthwick for his part in returning the King to Scotland from his eighteen year long imprisonment in England. , the location of Borthwick Castle was chosen for its rich Borthwick clan history and because the location is the ancestral location of the Borthwick family seat.

In its original form, the Borthwick Castle consisted of two towers surrounded by a “U” shaped enclosure. Its walls were one hundred feet in height and twenty feet in depth at its base. To add to this the fortifications also had a mote, drawbridge and portcullis. This design was primarily set in place to protect its inhabitants against invasion from the British.

As a counterpoint to these defences Borthwick Castle was especially luxurious on the inside. It was used by Mary Queen of Scots for her honeymoon. In the present day the castle is maintained to preserve its original luxuries décor.

The defenses of Borthwick Castle were tested a number of times, most notable was in the years of 1563, 1567 and 1650. The first two times were whilst protecting Mary Queen of Scots. The third was during the attack of Oliver Cromwell. The castle walls still bear the damage from the cannon fire. In recent years of conflict the castle has also found use, notably in World War II, Borthwick Castle was utilized as a hiding place for Scottish national treasures.