Crichton Castle was built for the influential Crichton family in the late 1300’s and served as their primary seat of power for nearly two hundred years. After they fell from grace ownership passed to the Earls of Bothwell. It was the 4th Earl who married Mary Queen of Scots in 1567.

The isolated castle features a unique Italian Renaissance style facade of diamond-patterned stonework and an arcade, which was influenced by a visit to Italy by the 5th Earl of Bothwell between 1581 and 1591. He also added the stables complex.

The castle fell into ruin after Bothwell was accused of witchcraft and forfeited his estates.