Shittleheugh Bastle in Otterburn, England

Per Atlas Obscura, Shittleheugh Bastle rose during an era when the Border Reivers—raiders terrorizing the frontier between Scotland and England—made fortification necessary. These bastles shielded families and livestock behind stone walls one point two meters thick, and Shittleheugh's position on a slope overlooking Redesdale meant residents could retreat to safety when danger approached. Though its roof and internal floors are long gone, the structure still stands—its gables intact, evidence of the defensive measures a vulnerable borderland required.

Listen to this story

Hear this and more stories in a personalized audio briefing.

Open The Chonkerton