As you sip a drink in the leafy gardens of The Old School, watching sheep graze the peaceful grassy hillock topped by Hume Castle, it can be hard to imagine the ruined castle was once one of the most strategic fortresses in the Scottish Borders. Set at the castle’s feet, The Old School is a dainty stone building surrounded by mature gardens that tumble across various levels. Comfortable benches tucked into quiet corners of these well-tended gardens, including a wraparound bench by a firepit, invite you to contemplate the peace that reigns over Hume, while a cosy garden room provides shelter, books and magazines.
Taking the few steps from this charming two-bedroom property up to the castle explains why it was such a significant defensive site: unbroken views extend far across the Tweed valley, with the Cheviots to the south, the Eildon Hills to the west, and Lammermuirs to the north. Today’s modified Hume Castle is built around the remnants of a late 12th- or early 13th-century castle held by the powerful Hume or Home family, with both spellings recognised for the family, castle and small settlement below it.
Victorian schoolchildren would certainly recognise The Old School’s original panelling and 12-pane sash windows, set up high to provide ample light for them to practise their learning while not distracted by views of the outside world (although visitors today will find the views they offer of Hume Castle from the living area pleasantly distracting).
Today, the wood panelling is painted in soft grey tones, which complement the inky blue cabinetry of the open-plan kitchen, dining and living space that now benefit from the light flooding in through those large windows and the warmth of a cosy wood burner. Leading off from the entrance hallway, the ground floor further houses a double bedroom with an en-suite rainforest shower room, which is particularly well suited for guests with restricted mobility.
The most surprising part of The Old School lies in its first-floor conversion, where its owners have created an expansive bedroom and separate bathroom, set beneath the property’s vaulted ceiling. To one side of the staircase lies a super king bed beneath exposed timber beams, together with a sofa and desk by the window, while a bathroom lies to the other side, also set below exposed beams and boasting a rolltop bath and walk-in shower.
In addition to claiming a castle on its doorstep, The Old School is just 5 miles from the spectacular Floors Castle, which is located on the outskirts of the bustling Abbey town of Kelso. Further historic homes and gardens, including Manderston, Mellerstain and Thirlestane, are all within easy driving distance. The village is also a popular base for anglers, who can enjoy easy access to salmon fishing on various nearby middle Tweed fishing beats.
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