Hermitage Castle, Scottish Borders Hermitage Castle is a semi-ruined castle in the border region of Scotland. It is under the care of Historic Scotland. The Castle has a reputation, both from its history and its appearance, as one of the most sinister and atmospheric in Scotland. It is thought that the name derives from Old French: l'armitage - guardhouse. It was known as the 'the guardhouse of the bloodiest valley in Britain', and the "Strength of Liddesdale". Supposedly built by one Nicholas de Soulis around 1240, in a typical Norman Motte and Bailey pattern. 咄ortean / TopFoto