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Deformed worth the detour. The views are breathtaking and it’s really windy. It’s a shame it wasn’t open but it’s worth it for the view. We heard a bird and it was a rare peregrine falcon.
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Date of experience: August 2020
1 Helpful vote
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I made the effort to walk up to tower, and I’m so glad I did. It’s nothing special, however the views you get are breathtaking.
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Date of experience: January 2020
1 Helpful vote
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I don't usually write bad reviews, but felt I needed to in this case for a number of reasons. It was a dark and rainy day when we visited (although I quite liked the effect coupled with the starkness of the tower--the weather was NOT the problem). However, the road to the parking area is simply horrid, and filled with potholes that were DEEP and with the rain almost impassible. From the parking area to the tower is quite a steep walk--not a problem for us, but could be for many, especially when the grass is wet. But most disappointing was the interior. I guess I was expecting more explanation of how former inhabitants lived, what the interior may have been furnished, what went on at the various levels. What we got was a series of dolls (exceptionally made) that illustrated some of Sir Walter Scot's stories. I realize that he stayed here for awhile as a youth, but these dolls belong in a Scot museum, not here. The architecture was interesting, but the views were only so-so for Scotland. This could have been a great attraction if the National Trust would spend some pounds on the roads and on more interpretation of the tower itself.…
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Date of experience: September 2019
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We stopped here on the way back from Kelsi, the view leading up to it was fantastic. The track to the car park was through a farm and then along a very pot holed, muddy track which wasn't great. At the car park there are two tracks one easier and one steeper, however we found them both easy and not steep. As it was December the tower was closed so we were only able to see the views. I'm sure it's worth it in the summer and the track needs improving to get a better rating.…
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Date of experience: December 2019
1 Helpful vote
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Visited Smailholm Tower near Kelso on a bright and sunny day. It is built high on a stony outcrop. The tower was locked but still very impressive and the views were fabulous. The path up to the tower can be very muddy in wet weather. Kathy and John Fenwick
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Date of experience: November 2019
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