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Storm Éowyn update for Sat 25 and Sun 26 Jan: our maintenance teams around the country will be busy checking sites following the storm and this may take some time. Weather warnings also remain for parts of the country.

If you're planning to visit a staffed site, please call ahead first to check if it's open. For unstaffed sites, check local travel news before starting your journey.

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The Real Story

Scottish Borders

Imposing Hermitage Castle was visited by Mary in dramatic circumstances.

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1 Hermitage Castle

Mary visited Hermitage only once, but in dramatic circumstances. October 1566 saw her visit Jedburgh on business. During the trip, she learned that her loyal supporter the Earl of Bothwell had been ambushed and injured by Borders brigands.

She rode 25 miles to visit him, and 25 miles back. On the return journey she fell desperately ill and very nearly died. Only afterwards was it claimed that Bothwell was her adulterous lover: there is no evidence to support this, even though she married him seven months later.

Find out more and plan your visit to Hermitage Castle.

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