Greenknowe Tower

Greenknowe Tower is a four-story castle building made of red sandstone blocks standing on a low hill in Gordon. The L-shaped structure includes three round turrets that rise from the main walls.

The building was constructed in 1581 by Sir James Seton and bears carved initials above its entrance. Its design combines medieval defensive features with Renaissance elements that marked that era.

The structure shows how Scottish nobility designed and lived in their homes during the 1500s and beyond. The stonework and building shape reveal that both defense and comfort mattered equally to the families who built here.

The site can be visited during daylight hours, though interior areas may be closed when masonry work is underway. The exterior gate and surroundings remain generally accessible to visitors.

The original iron gate, known as a yett, is one of the few surviving defensive doors on Scottish tower houses. This type of heavy iron construction once protected the entrance from intruders.

Location: Scottish Borders

Location: Gordon

GPS coordinates: 55.67772,-2.57503

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:06