Gilnockie Tower

About Gilnockie Tower

Experience Scotland’s history at Gilnockie Tower.

Begin your journey into Scotland’s past with a visit to Gilnockie Tower, the historic home of the Armstrong Clan. Here you can immerse yourself in the life and times of the Border Reiver days and gain a deeper understanding of Scotland’s rich historical legacy.

Gilnockie Tower, an impressive 16th-century Scottish pele tower, is a sight to behold. This tower served as the residence of Johnnie Armstrong of Gilnockie, a notorious Border Reiver, around 500 years ago. In 1530, the Scottish king ordered the hanging of this powerful chieftain, and his story was later romanticised by Walter Scott.

This stunning tower features five floors, including a vaulted chamber, a banqueting hall, and a spiral staircase. The entrance stone, which is believed to be as old as two thousand years, is a remarkable piece of history. Although it was once a roofless ruin, the tower has undergone a complete renovation and is now open to visitors as a clan and tourist attraction.

The Clan Armstrong Centre, which is located on the premises, contains reiving artefacts and the world's largest collection of Armstrong archives. Historians, students, and tourists alike have recognised the tower as either Gilnockie Tower or Johnnie Armstrong's Tower. It is believed to have been constructed during the period circa 1490-1520, in a rubble built, carved stone, Medieval Period Scots Tower House style.

We are thrilled to provide group bookings, private hire options, private tours and we serve as a beautiful wedding venue.

Experience the fascinating history, mystery, and discovery of the Anglo-Scottish Border Reivers.

Join us for a captivating journey through 500 years of Clan Armstrong History at the Gilnockie Tower Reiver Centre.

Explore the vast and intriguing lands of the Border Reivers and discover a world of wonder.