Introduction
Gilnockie Tower is a unique relic in the Scottish Borders region. This tower is the only survivor from around 60-80 stone or wooden towers of similar design in the region The Tower dates from the 16th century, during the time of the lawless ‘Border Reivers‘ era. However, there is no documented proof of connection with any Armstrong prior to the 20th century.
Information on Tower interior
In recent years the tower has been restored by its owner with the interior now presented in spirit of the original.
Ancient carvings from the prehistoric era
Image below is of a rock located close to the threshold of the only entrance. Readers will notice at least four elaborate ‘swirl’ designs. These carvings are known as ‘rock art‘ and are usually found on sites (in Britain) contemporary with the Neolithic period. However, there is no scientific means of dating the carvings. They are likely to be at least 4000-5000 years old.
There are additional features from a more recent time. In the bottom right section readers will observe a small carving of a soldier with shield.At bottom left it is possible to discerne what may be a faint carving of an animal.
History of Gilnockie Tower
The Tower was originally named Holehouse (house by the hole) with hole referring to the nearby quarry formed when the Tower was originally built.It was registered as Gilnockie in 1937 and as Gilnockie Tower in 1981. At the latter date it was described as “this oblong tower-house of 16th century date stands to a height of four storeys and a garret and bears a beacon-stance on the SSW gable. Attributed to the Armstrongs.” There is speculation that the Tower was connected with the infamous Johnnie Armstrong, the last Chief of Clan Armstrong.
In 1972 moonwalker, Neil Armstrong, visited the tower.
Visiting
The Tower is open seven days a week and incorporates a cafe facility. The site can be included in a day tour of Clan Armstrong connected sites in the locality..
Location is close to the village of Canonbie, five miles south of Langholm and sixteen miles directly north of Carlisle.
More information
For more information on Clan Armstrong and other aspects of Scotland please refer to Visitors’ Guide to Scotland, ISBN 978-1-9161332-0-4