Hume Castle

Hume Castle is a fortified stronghold perched on a high hill between Kelso and Greenlaw in the Scottish Borders. Its stone walls command views across the landscape toward the Lammermuir Hills and the Cheviots.

Founded in the 12th century by William de Home, the castle became the seat of the influential Home family. They held the position of Wardens of the Eastern March, giving them control over this border region for centuries.

The castle walls show layers from different periods, with Victorian-era changes creating the tall stone structures you see today. Walking around, you notice how each addition tells a story of the people who lived and worked here.

The site is open year-round with no admission charge, managed by the Hume Castle Preservation Trust. The hilltop location means exposure to weather, so plan for wind and bring layered clothing if visiting in cooler months.

A fire at the castle in 1804 sparked the Great Alarm, causing troops to mobilize in response to what they thought was a French invasion. The false alarm revealed how tense the region was during the Napoleonic Wars.