Harden Castle

Harden Castle is a 16th century tower house, about 3.5 miles (5.6 km) west of Hawick, Scottish Borders.[1] It is alternatively known as Harden House or Harden Tower.[2]

The castle is situated strongly, above a deep ravine.[3]

History

The castle, which succeeds an earlier tower which was destroyed about 1590,[3] belonged to the Homes, but was purchased by the Scotts in 1501.[1]

Walter Scott of Harden, known as Auld Wat of Harden, was one of family. He was a Border Reiver, who married Mary, or Marion, Scott, known as ‘The Flower of Yarrow’, the events surrounding her being retold in the ballad The Dowie Dens o Yarrow.[1]

In the 18th century the family moved to Mertoun; the house was used as a farmhouse. It was restored and reoccupied during the 19th century.[1]

It became the seat of Lord Polwarth.[3]

Structure

The castle incorporates a three-storey tower house; it was extended between 1680 and 1690, with internal changes also,[3] and again when it was reoccupied.[1] The additions were added on the north; so they have not changed the appearance of the south front.[3]

The original block was 74.25 feet (22.63 m) (east to west) by 18.25 feet (5.56 m); the castle was extended 26.66 feet (8.13 m) east in the refurbishment of 1680.[3]

Internal features include plaster ceilings, and fireplaces.[4]

In the grounds there is a bowling green, possibly dating from the 17th century, to the west of the house. And there is a sundial, originally at Dryburgh House, 4 feet (1.2 m) high, with a square dial stone, a twisted shaft, and a moulded base.[3]

It is a category A listed building.[4]

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References
  1. Coventry, Martin (2001). The Castles of Scotland. Musselburgh: Goblinshead. p. 199 ISBN 1-899874-26-7
  2. "Harden Castle". Stravaiging around Scotland. Retrieved 2016-11-10.
  3. "Harden Castle". Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland. Retrieved 2016-11-10.
  4. "British Listed Buildings". British Listed Buildings. Retrieved 2016-11-11.

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