A family of the Lothians and Borders. Originating in Northumbria, the name appears in East Lothian around 1271, where they were later gifted lands by the Earl of March. Later again, they were associated with Nunraw Abbey
The Hepburns included Sir Patrick Hepburn of Hailes, created Lord Hailes in 1467, and whose grandson, also Patrick, was created the Earl of Bothwell in 1488. The most famous of the Bothwells was James, the 4th Earl, who married Mary, Queen of Scots (1542-87). The family maintained Hailes Castle (East Lothian) and James added Crichton Castle (Midlothian).
