Branxholme Castle is a five-storey tower located in Branxholme, approximately 3 miles southwest of Hawick in the Borders region of Scotland.
Branxholme Castle stands on land held by Clan Scott since 1420, its stones echoing centuries of drama. The original fortress fell to flames in 1532, set alight by the Earl of Northumberland.
"Nine-and-twenty knights of fame, Hung their shields in Branksome Hall; Nine-and-twenty squires of name, Brought them their steeds to bower from stall; Nine-and-twenty yeomen tall, Waited, duteous, on them all: They were all knights of metal true, Kinsmen to the bold Buccleuch." (Scott, 1805)
Rising from the ashes, the castle withstood English forces during the War of the Rough Wooing in 1547, only to be deliberately destroyed by the Scots themselves in 1570.
When the English army arrived that April, they found a formidable stronghold surrounded by lush gardens and orchards, and they finished its demolition with gunpowder.
Now sound out, trumpets!" quo' Buccleuch; "Let's waken Lord Scroope right merrilie!" Then loud the warden's trumpet blew "Wha dare meddle wi' me?" (Traditional, n.d.; Public Library UK, n.d.)
Sir Walter Scott of Buccleuch began rebuilding in 1571, a task completed by his widow, Margaret Douglas, in 1576.
After lying abandoned for twelve years, Branxholme Castle found new life in 2017, transformed by Carol Shanley and Brian Desport into a vibrant family home and a welcoming venue for weddings, spa retreats, café gatherings, and overnight guests.