Smailholm Tower

Smailholm Tower is a five-story stone structure standing about 20 meters tall on Lady Hill, with thick basalt walls and a vaulted basement that provided shelter during dangerous times. A surrounding defensive wall called a barmkin once protected livestock and defenders within its enclosure.

The Pringle family built this defensive tower between 1450 and 1500 as protection in a dangerous border region. During the 1540s it faced repeated attacks from English forces, yet survived this turbulent period.

Sir Walter Scott spent time at the tower during his childhood, later incorporating the location into his literary works The Eve of St John and Marmion.

The site is open from April through September, with parking available nearby. A short uphill walk leads to the tower, so wearing comfortable shoes is advised.

The upper hall contains a fireplace decorated with a carved human face, an unusual ornament from that period. After experimental restoration work, the tower now features a stone flag roof that reflects its original construction methods.

Location: Scottish Borders

Location: Smailholm

Operator: Historic Scotland

Website: https://historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/smailholm-tower

GPS coordinates: 55.60448,-2.57618

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:49