Borthwick Castle | hotel, monument, interesting place

 hotel, monument, interesting place

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The twin towered fortress of Borthwick Castle was built in 1430 by the first Lord Borthwick, whose sepulchre can still be seen with that of his Lady in the old village church. A charter to build the Castle was awarded to Sir William de Borthwick by King James I in thanks for his part in bringing the King home to Scotland after 18 years imprisonment in England.

The Castle was built as a stronghold capable of withstanding attack from invaders, particularly the English. It was also a base from which offensive action could be launched when needed. The stone used was of the finest quality, with 100 feet walls, 20 feet thick at the base and originally had a moat, drawbridge and portcullis.

It was also a home to the Borthwicks, where lavish entertaining took place in the impressive Great Hall. You can still see the magnificent canopied fireplace 20 feet (6m) high and 15 feet (4.5m) wide to the right of which is a "sedile" - a seat of honour for the master of the house enriched with a carved canopy and a shield bearing the Borthwick Arms.