Drumcoltran Tower
Sightseeing attraction | Dumfries | Scotland | United Kingdom
The "Drumcoltran Tower" in Dumfries, Scotland, is a historic landmark that is considered a well-preserved example of a Scottish Tower House from the 16th century. This fortress is located in the Dumfries and Galloway region, nestled in a gentle hilly landscape near the town of Dalbeattie, and is now situated in the midst of a modern farm. The tower, protected as a Scheduled Monument under the care of Historic Environment Scotland, provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of local noble families during a turbulent period of Scottish history and is a popular destination for visitors wishing to explore the architecture and history of the Borders.
The history of Drumcoltran Tower begins in the 1550s when it was built by Edward Maxwell, a younger son of the powerful Maxwell clan, who had their main seat at Caerlaverock Castle. The location was likely chosen because it controlled the main road between Dumfries and Dalbeattie, less so for its natural defensibility. Edward Maxwell acquired the lands through his marriage to Agnes Herries, the heiress of the estate, transferring the area from the Herries family to the Maxwells. Over the centuries, the tower changed hands several times: in 1668, it was sold to the Irving clan, and in 1750, it passed through marriage to Captain John Maxwell of Cardoness, who also owned the nearby Cardoness Castle. In the 18th century, a farmhouse was added to the west side of the tower, connected by a short passage, and both buildings served as accommodation for farm workers until around 1900. After that, the tower was used as a storage space until it was eventually taken into state care and restored.
Architecturally, Drumcoltran Tower is a classic L-shaped Tower House, a design that was widespread in Scotland. It consists of a rectangular main block of approximately 10.4 meters in length and 8.1 meters in width, with a slightly later added stair tower protruding from the side and crowning an additional floor with a guard room. The tower rises over three stories plus an attic, with the corners of the main building uniquely rounded – a detail that sets it apart from other Tower Houses. The walls are about 1.3 meters thick and provide a solid structure, originally featuring a crenellated parapet that was partially reconstructed after restoration work. Above the entrance, there is an inscription in Latin that translates to: "Keep hidden what is secret; speak little; be truthful; avoid wine; think of death; be merciful." This stern message reflects the puritanical spirit of the time.
Inside, the tower is simple but functional in design. The basement is vaulted and originally served as a storage space, but from the 18th century onwards, it was also used as a kitchen, evidenced by a large fireplace. The first floor houses the main hall, while the upper floors contained private chambers, equipped with additional well-preserved fireplaces. A wide, well-preserved spiral staircase leads up to the roof platform, surrounded by high parapets and offering an unusually accessible view, even for those who normally avoid heights. From here, an impressive panorama stretches over the surrounding landscape and the farm that almost completely encircles the tower, with the connection to the former farmhouse being severed in 1990 through the conversion of that building into a single-story storage space.
The surroundings of Drumcoltran Tower significantly contribute to its charm. It is located in a quiet, rural area, surrounded by gentle hills and fields typical of Dumfries and Galloway. Access is via a short, signposted path that leads from the roadside around the tower to the main entrance door, situated at the angle between the main block and stair tower – an arrangement that facilitated protection against unwanted intruders. This seclusion enhances the feeling of being transported to another time and provides a welcome tranquility away from larger tourist crowds. The integration into the farm gives the place an authentic, lived-in atmosphere that underscores its historical use as a residence and workplace.
For visitors, Drumcoltran Tower is a place of discovery and reflection. Although the interior is empty and devoid of furniture, the preserved architectural details such as the fireplaces and spiral staircase allow for glimpses into the lifestyle of the former inhabitants. The view from the roof platform is a particular highlight, not only showcasing the landscape but also highlighting the strategic importance of the site. The tower narrates the power dynamics and changing owners in a region often marked by conflicts, offering insight into the robust architecture built for protection and status.
In summary, Drumcoltran Tower in Dumfries is a landmark that artfully combines history and architecture. It tells the story of its founding by Edward Maxwell, the changing owners, and its use over centuries, while the ruin within a farm preserves a quiet yet powerful presence. For visitors to the region, it is a rewarding destination that brings the history of the Scottish Borders to life – a place that ignites the imagination with its simplicity and views, underscoring the significance of the Maxwell family in Scotland's history.
