Smailholm Tower visitor guide

Smailholm Tower, Kelso

The setting contributes hugely to the appeal of this nice little tower house which stands on a small rocky ridge in an upland area of high moorland. It still looks much as it did when Turner painted it in the early 1800s. The large pond in front of it is a mill pond ; its water used to power the nearby mill down by the farm

The tower is a pretty building , but not packed with interest; the best part is that you can get out onto the roof. Smailholm famous for its association with Sir Walter Scott, who as a child was sent to stay with his aunt at th nearby farm. The stories he heard inspired his interest in local ballads and legends.

Route: signposted off the B6404 to the west of Kelso
Entry Feyes

Nearby Monuments: Melrose Abbey, Dryburgh Abbey, Thirlestane Castle

Print