Langholm Tower

Langholm Tower is a badly ruined tower appearing to have been built on a mound within an abandoned horse racing track. The remains are easily accessible on foot, and although the ruin is surrounded by a low timber fence this is dilapidated. The tower is consistent with a 16th century date, and the suggestions are that it was accompanied by a courtyard and some outbuildings.

Langholm does not appear to have been provided with a stronghold in the medieval period, and when it was sacked in 1516 no castle is mentioned. The first mention is in 1544, and it was repeatedly attacked by the English in this period. It became the property of Lord Cranstoun in 1610, and later of the Earl of Buccleuch. The tower was occupied by Buccleuch’s chamberlain into the 18th century before it was demolished for building materials.

HES Canmore database entry