Description:

Cessford Castle, regarded by the English in 1523 as the third strongest fortress in Scotland, sits on high ground overlooking the Kale Water valley, about six miles northeast of Jedburgh. Once a key stronghold defending the Middle Marches of the Borders, it occupies a ridge between the Cessford Burn to the west and the Tanlaw Burn to the east, offering sweeping views across the Cheviots to the south. The ruins, now unsafe with no interior access, remain fascinating. In the 16th century, the Cessford Kerrs, who served as ‘Wardens of the Marches,’ were often known for their questionable loyalty. Contrary to the Ferniehurst Kerrs, they were opponents of Mary, Queen of Scots and the two Kerr branches often found themselves on opposite sides in the intricate and deadly ´games´ of Borderlife.

The average thickness of the outer walls in 3.9 metres, making the building exceptionally strong.