Fa'side Castle – East Lothian, Scotland - Atlas Obscura

Fa'side Castle

A historic fortification critical to Anglo-Scottish conflicts now serves as a bed and breakfast. 

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The Fawside family were owners of this property after Scottish leader Robert the Bruce’s rebellion. The Fawsides oversaw the construction of the general plan of the modern-day castle during the 16th-century. During the Rough Wooing between 1544-1548, an English faction burned the Fa’side castle prior to the Battle of Pinkie Cleugh.

A fortification stood at the site prior to the castle’s construction that dated back to the late 12th-century and the first Earl of Winchester. The location has also been the site of other historical events such as a visit from Mary, Queen of Scots in 1567. The castle was later abandoned to the point it was considered for demolition in the 1970s, but after being sold to a private owner it now functions as a bed and breakfast.

Even in the modern era, Fa’side has been unable to avoid conflict, as the property was part of an early 2010s embezzlement case. As a result, the castle was sold for a staggering price of ÂŁ1.9 million. 

Know Before You Go

The castle is a private residence with no access to the interior or grounds. One would have to book an accommodation to have a look inside. It's location is on a country lane with no room to park one's car. Just a few yards from the entrance is a pedestrian walking trail, where one can park and then walk up to the castle.

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