Torwoodlee Broch

Torwoodlee Broch is a circular stone fortress with a diameter of roughly 23 meters and walls about 5.5 meters thick. The entrance was positioned to shelter from westerly winds, and the interior contained several chambers including a guard room near the entrance.

The fortress dates to the Iron Age and was later used by Romans during the 1st century AD. Archaeological digs in 1891 revealed Roman objects such as pottery, glass, and a coin of Emperor Titus.

The name reflects the ancient woodland that once covered this area and shaped settlement patterns. Visitors can still sense how the surrounding terrain influenced where and how people chose to build.

The site appears as low stone remains today since the walls stand less than 0.5 meters high. Wear sturdy shoes because the terrain is hilly and the large stones are uneven.

An internal chamber near the entrance served as a guard post to watch over access to the fortress. Notably, a separate chamber contained the remains of an ancient staircase that led to higher levels within the structure.

Location: Scottish Borders

Location: Caddonfoot

GPS coordinates: 55.63683,-2.85062

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:26