Scheduled MonumentsScotlandCairns Castle

Cairns Castle

Scotland
HES SM1193
Nation
Scotland
Boundary

Scheduled area

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Overview

History & significance

Cairns Castle is a medieval fortified tower located in Midlothian, Scotland. The castle dates to the fifteenth century and represents a characteristic example of the Scottish tower house tradition of that period. The structure comprises a rectangular stone tower with defensive features typical of its era, including thick walls designed to withstand both siege and small-scale military action. Its construction reflects the local nobility's need for secure, self-contained residences during a period of considerable political instability in the Scottish Borders region.

Cairns Castle is a scheduled monument protected by Historic Environment Scotland under reference SM1193. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Cairns Castle?

Cairns Castle is a medieval fortified tower located in Midlothian, Scotland. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic Environment Scotland under reference SM1193.

Who is responsible for protecting Cairns Castle?

Cairns Castle is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Historic Environment Scotland — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in Scotland. The official designation reference is SM1193.

What other scheduled monuments are near Cairns Castle?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Harperrig, cairn, West Cairn Hill (2.7 km), Corston Hill, cairn (3 km), Harperrig,cairn,East Cairn Hill (3.2 km).

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