Crichton Castle Midlothian history, Pathhead building picture, Location, Ancient Scottish church image

Crichton Castle Scotland

Historic Scottish Castle, Pathhead, Midlothian, south east Scotland, UK.

post updated 15 December 2023

Crichton Castle

Please check with owners for details such as access & charge

Photos © Adrian Welch:

Crichton Castle

Location: Pathhead, Midlothian

Directions: 2.5m south-west of Pathhead off the A68

5-10 minute walk from car park

Photos © Adrian Welch:

16th century castle in hilly pasture, with Collegiate church to the East, romantically positioned on a knoll in north-facing valley slope.

Building photos © AW:

Collegiate church:

Crichton Castle comprises four contiguous buildings arranged around an inner courtyard. The 14th century tower lies at the east of the castle, and has a vaulted basement with timber entresol, and a vaulted hall above, although the south-west corner of the tower has collapsed.

To the west of this tower was a barmkin. William Crichton extended the castle in the early 15th century, building a second tower to the south, forming a strong L-plan, with the gate between the two towers.

The castle’s most distinctive feature is its Italian-influenced courtyard façade, which forms part of the north range. Francis Stewart, the designer, had travelled to Italy, and was inspired by new styles and technology in buildings there, particularly the Palazzo dei Diamanti in Ferrara (circa 1582). This was the source of the diamond rustication on the courtyard wall.

Crichton Castle: Opening Times – always please check with owners, the below info was added many years ago –
1st Apr to 30th Sep
Mon – Sun 9.30am to last entry 6pm (closes 6.30pm)
1st to 30th Oct
Mon – Sat 9.30am to last entry 4pm
Sun 2pm to last entry 4pm (closes 4:30pm)
1st Nov to 31st Mar
closed

Chapel just to West of Castle entry – no larger image:
Midlothian castle