Ferniehirst Castle opens to visitors in July

Ferniehirst Castle, which sits among the ancient woodland above the Jed Water, near Jedburgh, in the Scottish Borders, has announced it will be open to visitors throughout July.  

They will have a rare chance to step inside this beautifully restored 16th-century stronghold, for guided tours. The Castle, which has been the ancestral seat of the Kerr family for over 500 years, is usually only available for exclusive-use accommodation, wedding and events.

Behind its formidable walls, visitors can expect to see magnificent baronial interiors; a grand hall featuring an ornate Italianate fireplace; and a charming turret library with an original carved oak ceiling.

There is also the opportunity to witness a traditional event during the annual Jedburgh Pageant celebrations – ‘The Jedhart Callant’s Ride to Ferniehirst Castle’ – held on the second Friday in July each year.

This sees the Callant (the leader of the celebrations) and attendants arrive in full ceremonial finery to honour the ancient riding traditions and clans of the Border country.

One of the few continuously family-held castles in Scotland, Ferniehirst also welcomes members of Clan Kerr and visitors from around the world seeking a deeper connection to Scotland’s Border heritage.

The Castle will be open to the public Tuesday-Sunday during July. The  cost of a guided tour is £10 (£5 for children under 12).

www.ferniehirst.com

Photography: Ferniehirst Castle