Folklore & legend

The Goblin Ha' of Yester Castle

Also known as: Goblin Hall; Wizard of Yester

Yester Castle, near Gifford

13th century; tradition recorded 15th century onwards

Wikipedia says Yester Castle was built before 1267 by Sir Hugo de Giffard, a Norman granted lands by William the Lion. Hugo was called the Wizard of Yester. The chronicler Walter Bower, writing in the 15th century, reported that local people believed his castle was wrought by witchcraft, with the Goblin Ha' built by magical hobgoblins.

Sir Walter Scott gave the story wider currency in Marmion, calling Hugo the founder of the Goblin Hall. That is a literary source, and readers should treat details in the poem as Scott's own additions to the tradition. The hall is a Scheduled Monument. Wikipedia says the site was closed to the public in 2021 after supporting stones were stolen.

A related tale about the Colstoun Pear also names Hugo as the enchanter, and has its own entry. A tradition of the wizard's ghost in the modern castle is not attested in the sources checked here. The pin is approximate.

The site was closed to visitors in 2021 following theft of stones from the structure.
Evidence
Long-standing local tradition
Access
No public access
Location
55.883, -2.733 (Parish-level only, treat as an area)

Sources: Wikipedia, "Yester Castle" [other]

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