Smailholm Tower
Scottish Borders, Scotland
Photo: Taken by User:Supergolden, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Gallery: HARTLEPOOLMARINA2014, CC BY-SA 4.0 · HARTLEPOOLMARINA2014, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Key facts
- Operator
- Historic Environment Scotland
- Condition
- Intact
- Access
- Staffed, ticketed
- Entry pass
- Historic Scotland Explorer Pass
- Nearest station
- Tweedbank, 7.1 miles (straight-line)
- Note
- Roofed Border peel tower; seasonal opening
Pinpoint
Sandyknowe Farm, Kelso TD5 7PG
Telephone 01573 460365
Opening Hours
Opening times change. Always check the official website before you travel.
| 1 April - 30 September | Monday : 10am to 4.30pm Tuesday : Closed Wednesday : Closed Thursday : Closed Friday : 10am to 4.30pm Saturday : 10am to 4.30pm Sunday : 10am to 4.30pm |
Last entry: 30 minutes before closing
- Closed
- 1 October to 31 March
Checked against the official page on 13 August 2026.
A roofed Border peel tower on high ground with views to the Cheviots and Lammermuirs, reached along a farm track rather than a proper road. It shaped the imagination of the young Walter Scott, who spent time at the neighbouring farm as a boy.
At a glance
Who to know
Sir Walter Scott · the writer whose childhood imagination the tower shaped
Worth the trip
The 360-degree views from a compact, easy-to-explore tower - reviewers rate it among the best peel towers they've visited.
Before you go
The farm track can be muddy and pot-holed, and Google Maps' routing through the farm can be confusing - follow the signposts; it's only open in summer months, and free to English Heritage members.
What visitors say
Smailholm Tower reviews · 4.5 / 5 across 342 Google reviews
Reviewers consistently praise Smailholm Tower for its views and its connection to Sir Walter Scott's childhood and writing, along with knowledgeable, welcoming staff.
Several note it's only open during the summer months, and one visitor arrived to find it closed and gated, so checking opening times in advance is worthwhile.
Access involves a single-track farm road that can be muddy, but reviewers agree the compact site and its history make it worth the detour.
“An impressive and well-preserved tower house with plenty of character. Set in a commanding position, it offers excellent views across the surrounding countryside and a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s past. Follow…”- Red Hand, visitor review
Within reach of Edinburgh (34 miles) - see what else is nearby.
History
Pringle family · 15th century
A peel tower built in the 15th or early 16th century by the Pringle family, sitting atop a dramatic crag. It inspired the young Walter Scott's imagination during childhood stays at a neighbouring farm; later restored by his family around 1800 and now displays tableaux illustrating Scott's ballads.
Adapted from this castle's Wikipedia article, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Practical notes from visitors
Quoted from individual Google reviews, not verified with the operator - treat as a steer, not gospel, and check before you travel.
- Parking
- “A single track road to get to it turns into a farm track and a dedicated parking area.” - Joseph Kincaid
Common questions about Smailholm Tower
Where is Smailholm Tower?
Smailholm Tower is in Scottish Borders, Scotland, at Sandyknowe Farm, Kelso TD5 7PG.
Do you need a ticket to visit Smailholm Tower?
Yes - Smailholm Tower is a staffed, ticketed attraction run by Historic Environment Scotland. Ticket prices and opening hours change through the year, so check the official site before travelling.
Is Smailholm Tower dog-friendly?
Visitor reviews suggest dogs are welcome at Smailholm Tower - one reviewer noted: “…ck about dogs. I would like to say that dogs are allowed on a lead outside the Tower. Although you can't take dogs i…”. Policies can vary between parts of a site and change over time, so confirm with the operator before visiting with a dog.
What is the highlight of visiting Smailholm Tower?
The 360-degree views from a compact, easy-to-explore tower - reviewers rate it among the best peel towers they've visited.
Is Smailholm Tower a ruin or still intact?
Smailholm Tower is largely intact - Roofed Border peel tower; seasonal opening.
