Bothwell Castle, Haddington.   Postcard dated 1909.

In 1566, aged twenty-one, James Hepburn inherited the title of Earl of Bothwell along with
the Sheriffdoms of Berwick, Haddington and Edinburgh.

Apparently "Bothwell Castle", which stood in the Hardgate, is a misnomer and only acquired
that title (perhaps ironically) after Bothwell hid there whilst fleeing enemies.

The story relates that Bothwell disguised himself as a kitchen maid for a few days. 
The house was actually owned by one "Cockburn of Sandybed".

Bothwell became Bailie of Lauderdale and owned Hailes Castle, near East Linton,
and Crichton Castle, near Pathhead, in Midlothian.

 Obviously a busy man, he also held the position of Lord High Admiral of Scotland.

His great uncle, whom he managed to disinherit, lived at Bolton between Haddington & Gifford.