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Location
near Peebles, Scottish Borders, Scotland
Description
Neidpath Castle is situated on the river Tweed about 1 mile west of Peebles in the Borders of Scotland. It is an L-Shaped tower with rounded corners. The basement and the hall are vaulted. Neidpath features roofed battlements, a pit dungeon, a parapet walk, and an exhibition of artifacts. A pleasant way to access the castle is from Haylodge Park and follow the path along the Tweed. The castle is open to the public.
History
An earlier castle on the site belonged to Sir Simon Fraser. The castle now standing was built by the Hays of Yester around 1370. Neidpath was known as Jedderfield Castle until the 16th century. The castle was visited by Mary, Queen of Scots in 1563, and by her son James VI in 1587. The castle was bought by William Douglas, 1st Duke of Queensberry in 1686. The castle was attacked by Oliver Cromwell and damaged by cannon fire before the occupants surrendered. Following the death of the fourth Duke of Queensberry the castle was inherited by the Earl of Wemyss and March. The tower main block and south range are still roofed, but the remainder is ruined. Neidpath still belongs to the Wemyss family.
The Arts
Sir Walter Scott and William Wordsworth visited the castle in 1803. Neidpath Castle was used as a location for Merlin: The Quest Begins starring Jason Connery. It was also used in the filming of The Bruce, and Joan of Arc.
Legends
The castle is said to be haunted by the ghost of Jean Douglas, referred to by Sir Walter Scott as ' the Maid of Neidpath', the youngest daughter of the Earl of March, William Douglas. Forbidden to marry her true love, she died of a broken heart. She is said to appear in a brown dress with a white collar.
Other Castles in the Area
Barony Castle, Scottish Borders
Borthwick Castle, Lothian
Crichton Castle, Midlothian
Dalhousie Castle, Midlothian
Dalkeith Palace, Midlothian
Newark Castle, Selkirkshire
Newbattle Abbey, Midlothian
Shieldhill Castle, Lanarkshire
Traquair House, Scottish Borders
Venlaw Castle, Scottish Borders
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