Gilnockie Tower is a stunning example of a Scottish pele tower. Built some 500 years ago, it was home to Johnnie Armstrong, a notorious border reiver. In 1530 this powerful chieftain was hanged by a Scottish king, his story romanticised by Walter Scott.
Gilnockie Tower has five floors, including vaulted chamber, banqueting hall and spiral staircase. The entrance stone is thought to be two thousand years old. Once a roofless ruin, the place has been completely refurbished and is open as a clan and visitor attraction. The Clan Armstrong Centre houses reiving artefacts and the world’s largest collection of Armstrong archives.
Many times recognised by historians, students and visitors alike as: the Gilnockie Tower; Armstrong's Tower; Hollows Tower; or Holehouse Tower and believed to be from the period circa 1490-1520 as a rubble built, carved stone, Medieval Period Scots Tower House.
Gilnockie Tower is open all year round.
10.00 am until 4.00 pm 7 days Easter to end October 2018.
Last tour 30 minutes before advertised closing time.
Personalised guided tours of the tower available at 12.15 pm,
13.15 pm, and 14.15 pm by booking through our phone number
Open: 11.00 am until 3.00 pm daily end October until Easter 2019.
Cafe now open
You can email gilnockietower@gmail.com for further information.
