Kilspindie Castle, Medieval castle ruins in Aberlady, Scotland
Kilspindie Castle is a medieval fortress ruin located north of Aberlady Parish Church in East Lothian, with a substantial north wall of dressed sandstone containing gun loops and doorways. The remains sit near Aberlady Bay and can be reached via a minor road branching west from the A198.
The castle passed into Douglas family hands in the early 16th century following a dispute with the Spens family. This transfer of control reflected the broader power dynamics among Scottish noble families in that era.
Archaeological excavations near the castle uncovered the largest collection of Anglo-Saxon artifacts found in Scotland, indicating extensive early settlement in the area.
The ruins sit in an open area and are visitable in most weather, though the ground is uneven and can be wet. Wearing sturdy footwear and choosing drier conditions makes the visit more comfortable.
Archaeological digs near the site uncovered one of Scotland's largest collections of Anglo-Saxon artifacts, revealing that the area saw continuous settlement across different periods. Metal detecting around the ruins has also turned up coins and pottery fragments from various eras.
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