Hailes Castle

Hailes Castle is a medieval fortification in East Lothian built from red sandstone blocks, consisting of several interconnected structures arranged along the River Tyne. The site includes a hall block, a chamber tower, a kitchen tower, and additional defensive works that developed over centuries.

The de Gourlay family built the first fortified manor here in the early 1200s during the reign of William I of Scotland. Later owners, particularly the Hepburns, expanded and modified the structure significantly.

The Hepburn family left their mark through renovation work in the mid-1300s that transformed how the castle looked and functioned. Their additions reveal how powerful local families shaped the appearance of such strongholds over time.

The grounds remain open to visitors, though the interior is currently off-limits due to ongoing safety assessments of the stonework. Wear sturdy shoes when exploring the site, as the terrain can be uneven and muddy in wet weather.

A well carved directly into the rock within the kitchen tower reveals how medieval builders solved the water supply problem. This carefully engineered feature allowed occupants to tap into water sources directly beneath the structure.