Waughton Castle

Waughton Castle stands in East Lothian, Scotland, about five kilometres north of East Linton and three kilometres west of Whitekirk. Built in the fourteenth century, it was once a castle with a courtyard, though only part of one wing remains today. The ruins sit on a rock terrace fifteen feet higher than the ground below. A small tower at the south-west angle still rises up to eight metres, built with rubble and dressed stone. A narrow window in the south wall suggests the tower dates from the sixteenth century. Later walls extend to the east and north, and a doocot can be found in the grounds. The Hepburn family once owned the castle. In 1547, Patrick Hepburn of Waughton made his will, fearing an English raid on his crops. That September, the English did sack the castle. His son, also named Patrick, supported Mary, Queen of Scots, and she was said to have visited for an archery match. After fighting for Mary at Carberry Hill in 1567, he was ordered by Regent Moray to surrender the castle. Neighbouring strongholds were also targeted at the same time. By the eighteenth century, the castle’s stone was reused for local walls and cottages. James VI planned a hunting trip in 1595, which included stops at Waughton and nearby estates. The remains of a partially artificial stairway lead up the rock to the ruins. The site offers quiet views over the surrounding countryside.