Twizell's Medieval Remains: Scotland's Failed Castle

Twizell's Medieval Remains: Scotland's Failed Castle

Just ten miles southwest of Berwick Upon Tweed, the town of Tillmouth uncovers a unique historical enigma. Twizell Castle, a medieval relic, was once a formidable stronghold. However, its transformation under James IV's orders, from a strategic fortress into a two-storey folly, raises intriguing questions about Scotland's intended invasion of England.

Nestled in the picturesque town of Tillmouth, a mere ten miles southwest of Berwick Upon Tweed, lies a remarkable historical testament: the Twizell Castle. Once a formidable medieval stronghold, its remnants remain striking, now incorporating a modified Gothic Revival design on a rectangular plan, with circular towers at the angles and two wings on the north side. The basement rooms in the main block are still structurally sound, boasting stone and brick-vaulted ceilings as a precaution against fire, a testament to the defensive capabilities of this once imposing edifice. The castle's most intriguing chapter unfolded in the 15th century when it was transformed under James IV's orders, from a strategic fortress into a two-storey folly.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons

Written by Nicolo Ciampini

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