Langholm and River Esk, Scottish Borders.

Introduction

This evening, I am focusing on Langholm in the Scottish Borders region, about seventy-eight miles south of Edinburgh.

Information on Langholm

This town (population of about 2500) has an interesting history most prominent aspect of which is 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 the town are the remains of a 16th century Tower House (castle) closely associated with the Armstrongs. See image below.
• Moonwalker, Neil Armstrong was made a Freeman of the town in 1972 in recognition of his ancestral links with Langholm.

Remains of Castle

Centre of town looking North.

Centre of town looking South

Langholm invariably features in Border Reiver or Clan Armstrong  themed tours. There are many interesting sites nearby including Hermitage Castle.

More information

For more information on Clan Armstrong, Scottish Borders, 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.