Top 5 Castles around Greenlaw And Hume
Best castles around Greenlaw And Hume are found in the Scottish Borders, a region known for its historical significance and varied landscape. This area features rolling hills and river valleys, offering panoramic views across the Merse and towards the Cheviot Hills. Visitors can explore sites that blend medieval history with later architectural developments. The region provides opportunities to engage with both preserved structures and historical ruins.
Best castles around Greenlaw And Hume
- The most popular castles is Floors Castle,…
Last updated: May 2, 2026
Floors Castle
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Roxburgh Castle Ruins
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Duns Castle
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Hume Castle
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Smailholm Tower
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Hume Castle is a historic fortress located near the village of Hume. Built in the 13th century by the influential Home family, it served as a strategic defensive stronghold in a turbulent border region between Scotland and England. Today you can explore its ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
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A truly magnificent castle, and a Category A listed building. It is the home of the Duke of Roxburghe, and, apparently, the largest inhabited castle in Scotland. It was built for the 1st Duke in 1721-26 by William Adam, on the site of a previously existing house (House of Floris), and then extensively redone by W H Playfair in 1837-47 from the Georgian original to the way it is looking now. This is an unmissable place. It is open to tourists. Please see the Castle's website for more information and tickets: https://www.floorscastle.com/
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Although the first castle was here already in the 13th century, the present Hume Castle was erected in 1794 by the Earl of Marchmont - as a folly. There are terrific views of the surrounding countryside from the castle - worth getting up there.
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This impressive tower was built in the 15th century, originally home of the Pringle family. It was a favourite of Sir Walter Scott (ok, now you're actually reading this tip), who stayed at his grandparents' farm in Sandyknowe in 1773 as he was recovering from poliomyelitis. It is now managed by Historic Scotland. There are exhibitions here related to Scott, ballad and folklore. From the battlements, you will get terrific views of the area.
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Roxburgh Castle is now a ruin after a long and tumultuous history. It was built in the early 12th century by David I. For many centuries of wars between Scotland and England, it kept changing hands until it was eventually razed to the ground in the 16th century part of a treaty between England and France.
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A 14th century castle which isn't open to the public but is open for private events, weddings and as accommodation. The castle has been the home of the Hay family since 1696, the current generation still live here and welcome guests. You can run past the castle and enjoy loops around the wider nature reserve and Hen Poo lake. Add Duns Law for some ascent.
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A 14th century castle which isn't open to the public but is open for private events, weddings and as accommodation. The castle has been the home of the Hay family since 1696, the current generation still live here and welcome guests. You can walk past the castle and enjoy walking around the wider nature reserve and Hen Poo lake.
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Fortress style castle atop a hill, you can imagine it was a pretty imposing sight in the 15th Century. Good view from the top of the hill if you decide to get off and clamber up there.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which castles in the Greenlaw And Hume area are open to the public for visits?
You can visit Floors Castle, which is Scotland's largest inhabited castle and open to tourists. Hume Castle is also open to the public year-round and free to visit. Smailholm Tower, a 15th-century tower, is managed by Historic Scotland and features exhibitions.
Are there any family-friendly castles to visit near Greenlaw And Hume?
Yes, Floors Castle is considered family-friendly. It offers a magnificent experience as Scotland's largest inhabited castle with extensive grounds to explore.
What kind of historical significance do the castles in this region hold?
The castles in the Greenlaw And Hume area are rich in history. Hume Castle, for instance, incorporates remnants of a 13th-century stronghold and was a strategic border fortress. Roxburgh Castle Ruins have a long and tumultuous history, changing hands many times during Anglo-Scottish wars. Smailholm Tower is a 15th-century tower house with connections to Sir Walter Scott.
Can I find walking routes or outdoor activities near the castles?
Yes, there are several options. Around Duns Castle, you can find walking routes around its wider nature reserve and Hen Poo lake. For more extensive outdoor activities, you can explore the gravel biking, running trails, and road cycling routes available in the Greenlaw And Hume region.
Which castles offer the best views of the surrounding countryside?
Hume Castle is renowned for its extensive and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the Merse, the Cheviots, the Eildon Hills, and the Lammermuirs. From the battlements of Smailholm Tower, you can also get terrific views of the area.
Is there a castle that is particularly unique or architecturally interesting?
Hume Castle is a compelling example of a Border stronghold with an 18th-century architectural whimsy. While it incorporates remnants of a 13th-century castle, its current form is largely an 18th-century folly, rebuilt with unusually large crenellations, giving it a distinctive and picturesque silhouette.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles in Greenlaw And Hume?
The castles are generally accessible year-round, but visiting during spring or summer (April to September) often provides the best weather for exploring the grounds and enjoying the panoramic views. For specific opening times, especially for interiors, it's advisable to check the individual castle websites.
Are there any castles that are not fully open to the public but still worth seeing?
Duns Castle, a 14th-century castle, is not open to the public for general visits but is available for private events and accommodation. You can still enjoy walking around its wider nature reserve and Hen Poo lake, offering views of the castle exterior.
What happened to Greenlaw Castle?
Greenlaw Castle, originating in the early 13th century, was largely demolished around 1820, with the last remnants removed by the 1850s. Today, the site is marked by a solitary tree in a field east of Greenlaw village, with only earthworks remaining. It does not offer a standing castle structure for visitors.
Are there any castles that are free to visit?
Yes, Hume Castle is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, open to the public year-round and free to visit, with a free car park available.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the castles?
The region features rolling hills and river valleys, offering panoramic views across the Merse and towards the Cheviot Hills. From Hume Castle, you can see the Cheviots, the Eildon Hills, and the Lammermuirs. Near Duns Castle, you can explore the nature reserve and Hen Poo lake.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles in this area?
Visitors appreciate the blend of medieval history with later architectural developments, such as the unique folly design of Hume Castle. The extensive views from elevated castle sites like Hume and Smailholm Tower are also highly praised. The sheer grandeur of places like Floors Castle, Scotland's largest inhabited castle, is a major draw.
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