Strongholds of the Border Reivers (F.#70)

In the year 1296, Edward I of England launched a series of vicious raids across the Anglo-Scottish Border in his attempt to annexe Scotland. The Scots retaliated and the two countries were plunged into 300 years of war in which the Borderland became the frontline and raiding, or "reiving," encouraged by both sides, became a way of life. Keith Durham examines the Border fortresses, ranging from small, well-defended castles to imposing tower houses, or "peles," and a variety of fortified farmhouses known as "bastles." He also investigates the many churches that were strengthened against attack and in times of trouble served as sanctuaries for their congregations. "Like all books in the Fortress Series, there is a section on visiting the various sites today, making this book a capable guide to these structures as well as a history of their construction, use and fate. It is a superb book on the subject and one that I can recommend to you without reservation."- Scott Van Aken, "modelingmadness.com" (May 2008)
"Here is a well-illustrated account of their designs and use, with plenty of plans and excellent colour plates. This is a great books for anyone interested in castles, and if you plan to visit the area it will be a wonderful guide to sites of interest. Very highly recommended." -John Prigent, "Internet Modeler "(April 2008)
"This book covers the fortifications built along the Anglo-Scottish border from 1296 to 1603 beginning with a brief history of the English attempts to take over Scotland beginning with Edward I and initiating three centuries of border raiding (reiving)...Those interested in frontier warfare during the later part of the Middle Ages will find this book useful." -J. E. Kaufmann, "Site-O" (April 2008)