Fans of the popular TV series Outlander will instantly recognise Midhope Castle as Lallybroch or Broch Tuarach, the iconic home of Jamie Fraser. This medieval castle is located on the Hopetoun Estate in West Lothian. Its history stretches back to the Middle Ages and Midhope Castle carries centuries of stories, from border conflicts to periods of decline and restoration.
Read this article in DutchA castle with deep roots
The first recorded mention of Midhope Castle dates back to 1458, when it was still referred to as Medhope. It appears in a document describing a border dispute between Henry Levingstone and John Martyne, the laird of Medhope. Martyne went on to build Medhope Castle, where he lived until his death in 1478.
After Martyne’s death, ownership of Midhope passed to Henry Levingstone. Over the next 150 years, the castle changed hands several times. In 1582, Midhope came into the possession of Alexander Drummond and his wife Marjorie Bruce. Five years later, the castle underwent significant renovations: Drummond rebuilt the tower and turrets and had their initials carved into a datestone, which can still be seen at the gate today.
Renovations and new owners
In 1664, the distinctive doorway we see today was created by George Livingston, the third Earl of Linlithgow. He gave the castle much of the shape and character it still retains today. Fourteen years later, the castle changed ownership once again when John Hope purchased it and initiated a major facelift.
An entrance tower was removed, the eastern wing was raised and expanded and a charming courtyard was added. These renovations transformed Midhope into what Sir Robert Sibbald described in 1710 as “a splendid tower house with beautiful gardens.”
From lively to abandoned
In the 19th century, Midhope Castle was still a bustling place. The 1851 census shows that as many as 53 people lived in and around the castle. Gamekeepers, foresters, workers and craftsmen kept the estate alive and thriving. But by 1926, times had changed: the castle fell into decline. Even the once beautiful oak staircase with its twisted balustrades stood in a sorrowful state. The building seemed destined to be lost to the passing of time.
A second life as a filming location for the series Outlander
Fortunately, Midhope Castle was given a second chance in 1988 when restoration work began. Roofs were replaced, window frames renewed and the castle was slowly but surely saved from complete ruin.
Then, in 2013, Midhope Castle returned to the spotlight when it was chosen as a filming location for Outlander. Suddenly, the castle was no longer visited only by history enthusiasts but also by a new generation of travellers and fans eager to see the real-life Lallybroch. Its weathered stone walls, iconic gateway and rural surroundings provided the perfect backdrop to bring Scotland’s past to life in the series.
Visiting Midhope Castle: tickets and information
To visit Midhope Castle, you’ll need a ticket, which can be purchased through the official website. If you want to learn more about its history and secrets, you can also book a guided tour.
Midhope Castle is open to visitors from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm between April and October. During the rest of the year, there are days when the castle cannot be visited due to agricultural work taking place on the estate. You can find the exact dates on the official Hopetoun Estate website.
