Tantallon Castle is located on the eastern coast of Scotland, near North Berwick. It is the last of Scotland’s grand medieval castles and was built in the mid 14th century by William, Earl of Douglas.

On the death of William in 1384, he left a legitimate heir, James, and an illegitimate son, George. James inherited the entire Douglas estates but was killed at the Battle of Otterburn. The mother of the illegitimate George now sought to promote her son’s claim. The Douglas family divided into two factions with James’ heir - Archibald the Grim - leading the Black Douglases whilst George headed the Red Douglases. Tantallon Castle was held by the latter.

George died in 1403 and was followed by his son, William. William was a loyal supporter of James II and was used by the King as a gaoler for key opponents. On Royal orders William incarcerated Alexander MacDonald, Lord of the Isles at Tantallon between 1429-1431. He later led the King’s army at the Battle of Arkinholm where he decisively defeated the Black Douglases.

The family also frequently clashed with the Crown. It was besieged by both James IV and James V. The end came for Tantallon in 1650. Oliver Cromwell had defeated the Scots at the Battle of Dunbar and overrun southern Scotland. A force of 91 men under Alexander Seton established their base at Tantallon Castle. Operating from this secure facility they launched attacks on the English supply lines.

Unsurprisingly the English were not willing to leave this garrison in their rear and General George Monck was tasked with reducing the castle. He commenced an artillery bombardment, smashing a breach and took the castle. The damage was so extensive that the castle was never rebuilt.