Introduction

This evening, I am reporting on Langholm Castle in the Scottish Borders region.

Artist’s impression of Langholm Castle during the violent Border Reivers era.

Information on Langholm Castle

Langholm is a small town located about 72 miles/2 hours south of Edinburgh. The ruined castle, a tower house, sits on a piece of parkland between the River Esk and former course of the Ewes Water (river).

Remains of castle in context of local park

The ruins measure 9.2m long and 6m high.

It is believed the castle was built for the Armstrong ‘clan’ during the early 16th century.There may have been a predecessor fortification on the site.

Records indicate the castle was largely demolished by 1725.

Castle ruins today

Information on Langholm

Langholm

This town (pop 2500) has an interesting history. The most prominent aspects are involvement with the Border Reivers era and Clan Armstrong in particular. Today the town is closely associated with Clan Armstrong which in turn is identified with nearby Gilnockie Tower. A summary of history and related facts:

• The name translates as ‘Long Meadow’ but is known locally as ‘Muckle Toon’
• Located in the county of Dumfries and Galloway.
• During the industrial era was home to a vibrant textile industry and many mills.
• Langholm has two famous sons: the poet, Hugh MacDiarmid and engineer, Thomas Telford.
• The River Esk flows through the town centre.
• In the centre of Langholm is the remains of a 16th century Tower House (castle) closely associated with the Armstrongs.
• Moonwalker, Neil Armstrong was made a Freeman of the town in 1972 in recognition of his ancestral links with Langholm.

More information

For more information on Clan Armstrong, castles and many other aspects of Scotland please refer to Visitors’ Guide to Scotland, ISBN 978-1-9161332-0-4. This book is also available via Kindle.