Covington Tower: A 15th Century Scottish Tower House
Explore Covington Tower, a majestic 15th-century Scottish fortress steeped in history and medieval charm near Biggar.
Covington Tower is a historic 15th-century tower house located near Biggar, Scotland. Built on the site of an earlier 11th-century castle, this substantial medieval fortress features thick coursed rubble masonry walls and earthworks that reflect its defensive origins. Once occupied by the Lindsay family for two centuries, the tower stands as a testament to Scotland’s feudal past and architectural heritage.
A brief summary to Covington Tower
- Biggar, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain around the tower can be uneven and grassy.
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the architectural details and surrounding views.
- Bring a camera for capturing the dramatic stonework and scenic countryside backdrop.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Biggar for local dining and accommodation options.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Biggar town center to Covington Tower takes approximately 15–20 minutes. The route involves rural roads with limited parking near the site, so plan accordingly. Fuel costs are moderate, approximately £3–£5 for the journey.
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Bus
Local bus services from Biggar to nearby stops run infrequently, with a travel time of about 30–40 minutes plus walking. Check current timetables as service frequency is limited, and walking over uneven terrain is required.
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Walking
For active visitors, a hike from Biggar to Covington Tower covers roughly 7 kilometers and takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. The path includes rural and uneven ground, suitable for experienced walkers with proper footwear.
Covington Tower location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Covington Tower
Medieval Origins and Architectural Legacy
Covington Tower is a striking example of a 15th-century Scottish tower house, constructed as a fortified manor for the Lindsay family. It occupies a site with a longer history, replacing an earlier 11th-century castle, which underscores the strategic importance of this location in Lanarkshire. The tower's walls, built of coursed rubble masonry, vary in height from 7 to 14 meters and are impressively thick at about 3.3 meters, designed to withstand attacks and provide secure living quarters.Strategic Setting in the Scottish Borders
Perched on a saddle of land historically flanked by natural defenses, Covington Tower’s position offered commanding views over the surrounding landscape. This location was critical for surveillance and defense during the turbulent medieval period. The surrounding earthworks and remnants of fortifications further emphasize its role as a stronghold in the region, reflecting the military architecture of its time.The Lindsay Family and Historical Significance
The Lindsay family, prominent in Scottish nobility, occupied Covington Tower for approximately 200 years. Their stewardship of the tower places it within the broader narrative of Scotland’s feudal clans and their territorial influence. The tower not only served as a residence but also as a symbol of power and control in Lanarkshire during the late medieval era.Current State and Preservation
Today, Covington Tower stands as a ruin, yet its robust masonry walls and earthworks remain largely intact, offering visitors a tangible connection to Scotland’s medieval past. The site is primarily an outdoor historical landmark, inviting exploration of its architectural features and the surrounding landscape. While there are no formal visitor facilities on-site, its proximity to Biggar makes it accessible for those interested in Scottish history and heritage.Experience and Atmosphere
Visiting Covington Tower immerses you in a serene and scenic environment, where the echoes of centuries-old history resonate through the stone walls. The atmosphere is tranquil and contemplative, ideal for those fascinated by medieval architecture, Scottish clan history, and the rugged beauty of the Borders countryside. The tower’s silhouette against the sky offers a picturesque and evocative landmark for photographers and history enthusiasts alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Covington Tower
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Discover the historical charm of Covington Tower in Biggar, Scotland, a medieval landmark steeped in rich heritage and stunning landscapes.
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Biggar Adventure
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Sunnyside Antiques
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The Falls of Clyde
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New Lanark
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Clyde Valley Woodlands National Nature Reserve (Cartland Crags)
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Cartland Craigs
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Wilsontown Ironworks
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Douglas Castle
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Treenis
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Craignethan Castle
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Crawford Castle
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Dawyck Botanic Garden
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Stobo Castle Health Spa
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Stobo Kirk
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Garrion Bridges Garden & Antiques Centre
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Essential places to dine
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The Barony
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Inn On The Loch
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Ristorante La Vigna
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Prego
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The Woodpecker Bar & Restaurant
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The Broomgate
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Prego Restaurant Carluke
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The West End Restaurant
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Booffi Village - The Buffet Restaurant
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La Salute Ristorante Italiano
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Artisan
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One 0 Eight Bar & Restaurant
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Harringtons
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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The Original Factory Shop (Carluke)
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Clyde Valley Antiques Centre
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Aye Do Gifts
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Wild Heart Crafts
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Harbro Country Store
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Your trusted rural supply store in Peebles, offering expert animal feed, pet care, gardening essentials, and equestrian supplies.
B&Q Livingston
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Matalan
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On A Shoestring
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Castle Warehouse Ltd
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Castle Warehouse Cookshop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Maisies Bar
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The Courtyard Wine Bar
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The Inns
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The Cross Keys Inn
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The Caledonian Bar, Gallery Bistro & Late Lounge
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Colebrooke Arms
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The Horse & Anchor
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
