Description:

Tantallon Castle was built by William Douglas, nephew of Robert the Bruce’s comrade Sir James Douglas. Known for his violent streak, William murdered his godfather to seize the Douglas name and estates. In the late 14th century, the Douglas Earls constructed a massive stone wall across a rocky promontory overlooking the Bass Rock. Its tall towers and grand halls made it a fitting home for a feudal lord, with strong defenses to match. For over three centuries, Tantallon stood as a noble stronghold, weathering many sieges, until Cromwell’s forces inflicted heavy damage in 1651. Since then, its ruins have been left empty, slowly crumbling over time.