What is recorded here

Ormiston Castle was a late 15th-century L-plan keep on a high ridge above the river valley, built by the Cockburns after the Dunbars held the land. Its basement vaults still sit near the yew tree where John Knox preached, while later buildings swallowed the rest of the structure. The castle faced east toward Haddington, probably guarded by ditches on three sides, and belonged to a lineage that rose through local strength before falling twice in dramatic ways.

Scotland's National Record of the Historic Environment records Ormiston Castle as Castle (medieval). The official map says its point is accurate as follows: NGR given to the nearest 10m. The record does not by itself mean that the public may enter the place.

Ormiston Castle was built in the late 13th or early 14th century by the de Morville family, a prominent noble lineage in East Lothian, Scotland. It is remembered as a significant medieval stronghold and is associated with historical events during the Wars of Scottish Independence.

The historic-place record does not grant public access. Check current conditions and ownership before entering land or a building.