Bow Castle Broch, Iron Age broch near Gala Water, Scottish Borders, United Kingdom.
Bow Castle Broch is a circular stone ruin from the Iron Age situated on flat ground next to a steep slope. Its thick remaining walls enclose a central space from which one can look out across the Gala Water valley.
The structure was built during the Iron Age as a dwelling and later became a point of contact with Roman traders and travelers. Excavations in the 19th century uncovered objects that show how active this exchange was.
The site was home to people who maintained connections across distances, as objects from different cultures found here reveal. These items tell of exchange and encounters that shaped daily life for the inhabitants.
Visiting is free and possible at any time since the ruin stands on open ground and is freely accessible. From here you can explore walking routes in the area or simply enjoy the views across the valley.
Only a few of these round structures survive in this region, and this site is among the rare examples you can still visit today. What makes it special is that you can study the building method and early Scottish culture directly at this location.
Location: Scottish Borders
Location: Stow
GPS coordinates: 55.66598,-2.85721
Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:20
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