As you venture through the south of Scotland, it’s only fitting that your first stop should present the opportunity to uncover thrilling, tumultuous borderlands history! Gilnockie Tower is a fine defensive peeltower which dates from the 16th century. Located on the River Esk, it’s home to the Clan Armstrong Centre, packed with lots of fascinating clan heritage, and from the top you can see as far as the English border. You can also explore the village of Langholm, or venture to the striking MacDiarmid Memorial, a huge metallic sculpture in the form of an open book located on a nearby hillside. This monument is dedicated to one of the most famous Scottish poets, Hugh MacDiarmid.