Smailholm Tower is a compact, well-preserved peel tower near Kelso, built on a rocky rise above the surrounding countryside. Climb its steep spiral stairs to the battlements for views across the Merse and towards the Cheviots. Inside, displays connect the tower with Sir Walter Scott and the Border ballads, including handmade figures by artist Anne Carrick. The final approach follows farm tracks, and a grassy path leads up to the tower, so sturdy footwear is useful.
A fortified home in the Borders
Smailholm is a peel tower, a fortified house built to shelter a family and their belongings during raids along the Scottish-English border. It stands on a rocky outcrop within a stone barmkin wall. The tower was built for the Pringle family in the first half of the 15th century.
Its rooms were arranged across several levels. Cellars occupied the ground floor, with a hall above and a bedchamber on the next floor. The battlements gave a view over the surrounding land, a practical advantage for a building in a contested border region.
Scott and the Border ballads
Sir Walter Scott spent time as a young child at his aunt and uncle’s farm near the tower. The landscape and its stories became part of his writing. He later wrote about Smailholm in *Marmion* and collected Border ballads and tales in *The Minstrelsy of the Scottish Border*.
Inside the tower, displays explore these connections. Handmade figures by Borders artist Anne Carrick depict characters and stories from the ballads. A model of the Pringle residence helps show how the tower and its household were arranged.
The climb and the displays
The tower’s narrow interior is spread over several floors, with displays to pause at as you climb. A steep spiral staircase leads to the upper levels and out onto the battlements. The compact layout makes the visit a close look at a fortified home rather than a large castle complex.
The approach is across a grassy path, and access inside involves stairs. The tower sits on working farmland, so follow the signs through Sandyknowe farm and expect a rough track on the way to the parking area.
Perguntas frequentes
When is Smailholm Tower open?
The tower opens in the summer months. Check its current opening information before setting out.
How long does a visit to Smailholm Tower take?
Allow about an hour to explore the tower and its displays and climb to the battlements.
Can I take my dog inside Smailholm Tower?
Dogs are allowed outside on a lead but cannot go inside the tower.
Is there parking at Smailholm Tower?
There is a dedicated parking area near the tower, reached by farm tracks that can be muddy and uneven.
