Named a five-star attraction by VisitScotland, Smailholm Tower is a dramatic peel tower overlooking a small sandy cove. Believed to date back to the 15th century and given to supporters of the powerful Clan Douglas, the tower frequently features in the prose and poetry of Sir Walter Scott.
Smailholm Tower gives the visitor an insight into life in a Tower House. When it was built in the 15th century it would have had cellars on the ground floor, a great hall on the first floor, a bedchamber on the second floor and smaller bedchambers on the top.
From the top there are doors leading out to wall-walks with impressive views. The history of the tower like a lot of border homes tells of a turbulent time during the 15th and 16th century.
In 1645 however it was bought by an ancestor of Sir Walter Scott and Sir Walter did in fact live in the family’s home at Sandyknowe on the estate when he was a child and is said to have been influenced by stories told by his grandmother of the tower and the border. Please note that the Tower is not suitable for people with mobility problems.
