Stapleton Tower

Stapleton Tower Details

Stapleton Tower, ruined C16 tower house of the Irvines and mostly demolished C19 mansion abandoned mid C20

  • Closest To: Annan, Gretna, Eastriggs
  • Access: S.O.A.C. Public Access
  • Grid Reference: NY235689

Stapleton Tower is a plain rectangular tower house that sits on level ground within a private garden north east of Annan. It is visible from public roads, and the adjacent public footpath but not accessible, and is the surviving part of a much larger mansion, now part demolished. It was probably built in the late 16th century for the Irving family.

The lands are known to have been held from the Bruce Lords of Annandale by the Crosbie family and then the Corries before the Johnstones acquired it in 1536 and promptly alienated it to Irving of Bonshaw. It was the subject of much argument in the 17th century until the last Irving laird was forfeited for treason. The tower fell into disrepair by 1823, but was incorporated into a rambling mansion, used by Barnardo’s for refugees in the war, but this is now demolished.

HES Canmore database entry

Image of “Stapleton Towers” by Barnardo’s

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