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Cessford Castle
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The ruins of Cessford, a once massive castle between
Kelso and Jedburgh, presents a sharp contrast to the gentle farmland
surrounding it. The castle was stronghold of the Kers, ancestors of the
Duke of Roxburgh and an influential Border family. Cessford was built in
the 14th century. It ceased to be a dwelling house in 1650, but was later
used as a prison. The Kers were known as being a predominately
left-handed family. Consequently, many castles formerly associated with
the family have their spiral stairways twisting opposite from most. This
was so the upper levels could be more advantageously defended during
attacks with swords, giving the left-handed residents more arm room for
fighting. |