Scottish Castles Photo Library
- Crichton Castle, Lothian
John de Crichton had a charter for the barony from King Robert III (who reigned from 1390 to 1406). It may have been John de Crichton who first constructed a great tower house, the remains of which can still be seen today.
The castle and estate was later granted to Sir Patrick Hepburn, Earl of Bothwell. His son, James Bothwell became the third husband of Mary Queen of Scots. Mary had earlier married Lord Darnley in Crichton Castle in 1565.
The fifth Earl of Bothwell was responsible for extending and embellishing the castle - he was responsible for the internal arcade of diamond-faceted stonework which is unique in Scotland.
Crichton is set in a wild moorland and its bleak location and approach by a rutted track, makes it easier to imagine what it would have been like in days gone by.
See also Places to Visit - Crichton Castle for more information and illustrations.
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or go to the next castle: 
Crookston Castle.
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