Dirleton Castle and Garden

Dirleton Castle, North East of Edinburgh, was reduced to ruin by Cromwell’s army in 1650 but still remains a spectacular sight. A grand house has since been built in the same grounds whose family brought on the rejuvenation of the gardens.

One of the oldest castles in the country, constructed in the 13th century, over 400 years Dirleton hosted three noble families, before being transformed into a military garrison. Having survived many sieges and captures, Direlton Castle like Blackness castle before it also suffered at the hands of Cromwell's new model army in 1650, and was severely damaged. When transferred to new owners, the Nisbet family, the castle became one of the first graceful ruins amongst carefully landscaped and pruned gardens in an age where castles became increasingly outmoded.

Although ruined in war, much of the convex castle remains relatively complete today, although what were thought to be the most spectacular elements, such as the hall and tower house can only be imagined through their foundations.