A motte and bailey castle was built by Ranulf I de Soules in the 12th century after being granted the Lordship of Liddesdale by David I of Scotland. The castle was constructed on a bluff above the east bank of Liddel Water and protected on two sides by the Kirk Cleuch Burn. Liddel castle probably served as the caput of the barony.
Coventry, Martin (2010). Castles of the Clans. Musselburgh: Goblinshead. ISBN978-1-899874-36-1.
Jeffrey, A. (1855–64) The history and antiquities of Roxburghshire and adjacent districts from the most remote period to the present time, 4v, London; Edinburgh, Page(s): Vol.4, 232, Held at RCAHMS D.1.3.JEF.R