Hume Castle

Hume Castle is a ruined hilltop fortress in the village of Hume, about two miles north of Stichill in the Scottish Borders. It stands between Greenlaw and Kelso, within the historic county of Berwickshire, and is protected as a Scheduled Monument by Historic Environment Scotland.

What is the history of Hume Castle?

The rocky outcrop was a natural defensive spot. Records show a church and settlement at Hume in the first half of the 12th century, which hints that some form of stronghold may have stood here early on. The oldest masonry that can be positively identified, a simple four-sided stone enclosure, is typical of the 13th century.

The castle belonged to the Hume (Home) family, Wardens of the Eastern March on the English border, who later became Lords Home and Earls of Home. Through the 1500s it changed hands repeatedly during the Anglo-Scottish wars. In the middle of the 17th century Cromwell's artillery brought it down; sources disagree on whether that was 1650 or 1651.

What will you see at the site?

Much of what stands today is an 18th-century rebuild as a romantic ruin, a folly raised on the old foundations in the final decades of the century. The thick walls and showy gateway therefore look more decorative than medieval. Remains of the central keep and other features survive. Long after its military life ended, the shell served as a beacon station during the Napoleonic Wars.

The hill gives wide views over the surrounding farmland and the Borders countryside. The site has also been studied in recent years: RCAHMS and HES surveyed it, including drone photography, and from 2021 the Hume Castle Preservation Trust led a multi-year project with excavations.

How do you get to Hume Castle?

The village of Hume lies a few miles north-west of Kelso, on the road towards Greenlaw. Driving is the easiest option. A car park for visitors sits at the foot of the hill, and a short climb leads to the ruins. Public transport in the area is limited, so check current bus times before you go.

Is it free, and when should you visit?

According to available sources, the ruins are open to the public without an entry fee. There is no visitor centre and signage is sparse, so bring a map or offline navigation. Choose a clear day for the best views; the hilltop is exposed, so pack a warm jacket. Check local information for any access restrictions during conservation work.

Frequently asked questions

Is Hume Castle an original medieval castle?

Only in part. Fragments of medieval structure remain, but most of the visible walls come from the 18th-century folly rebuild.

Does it cost anything to visit?

Sources say entry is free and the site is open to all.

Where can I park?

There is a visitor car park at the base of the hill, with a short walk up to the ruins.

How long does a visit take?

Allow 30 to 60 minutes for the walk, the walls and the views. It combines easily with a trip to nearby Kelso.

Who built it?

The first stone defences are credited to the Hume (Home) family, who held the castle for centuries.