Alloa Tower: Scotland’s Largest Surviving Medieval Keep

A Monumental Medieval Stronghold

Alloa Tower stands as Scotland’s largest surviving keep, its origins tracing back to the 14th century. Built originally to guard a strategic ferry crossing on the River Forth, the tower’s robust stone walls and imposing structure reflect its defensive purpose. The tower’s medieval features remain remarkably intact, including a stone well built into the walls on the first floor, a dungeon reputed to predate the tower itself, and magnificent oak roof beams in the Solar chamber. These elements offer a vivid glimpse into medieval Scottish architecture and life.

The Erskine Legacy and Royal Connections

The tower was the ancestral seat of the Erskine family, who held the titles of Earls of Mar and Kellie. The Erskines played a pivotal role in Scotland’s history, acting as loyal supporters of the Stuart monarchy. Notably, Mary, Queen of Scots, and her son James VI spent parts of their childhoods under the guardianship of the Erskines at Alloa Tower. The 1st Earl of Mar served as Regent of Scotland, while the 6th Earl was a key figure in the 1715 Jacobite Rising, linking the tower to significant political and royal events.

An 18th-Century Transformation Within Ancient Walls

In the late 17th and early 18th centuries, John Erskine, the 6th Earl of Mar, transformed the tower by adding an elegant mansion inside its medieval shell. This included the addition of a domed Italianate staircase leading to the Great Hall and lavish interiors that blend the medieval with the refined aesthetics of the Georgian era. Although the mansion house was destroyed by fire in 1800, the tower itself survived and was later restored to reflect its early 18th-century appearance, preserving the grandeur of the Erskine family’s residence.

Exploring the Tower Today

Visitors to Alloa Tower can climb to the top for sweeping views stretching across nine counties, offering scenic panoramas of the surrounding landscape. Inside, the tower houses a fine collection of Erskine family portraits and memorabilia, including works by renowned artists such as David Allan and Raeburn. A ground-floor DVD presentation narrates the tower’s history and restoration efforts, enriching the visitor experience with tales of curses, ghosts, fortunes, and the tower’s survival through centuries.

Setting and Surroundings

Alloa Tower is situated within Alloa Park, a peaceful setting that contrasts with the tower’s formidable architecture. The site is part of the Tower Trail, which guides visitors through Clackmannanshire’s medieval towers and manor houses, offering a broader context of the region’s rich heritage. The tower’s location near the River Forth underscores its historical strategic importance and adds to the tranquil ambience of the area.

Preservation and Access

The tower was carefully restored by the Alloa Tower Building Preservation Trust to maintain its historical integrity. Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, it is open seasonally with specific visiting hours, typically from Friday to Monday, 12 pm to 4 pm during the warmer months. Facilities include accessible parking, toilets, and a visitor shop, ensuring a comfortable visit while preserving the site’s authenticity.