Spedlin's Tower

Spedlin’s Tower, standing on the banks of the River Annan near Lockerbie, Dumfriesshire, is one of southern Scotland’s most atmospheric strongholds. Built in the 15th century by the Jardine family, the tower served as the seat of the Lairds of Applegirth for several generations. A classic L-plan tower house, its thick stone walls and narrow stairways were designed for defence during the turbulent times of the Border Reivers, when raiding and feuds between clans were commonplace. Despite its rugged beauty and historical importance, Spedlin’s Tower is most famous for one of Scotland’s most enduring ghost stories — the haunting of James “Dunty” Porteous. The story dates back to the 17th century and tells of a chilling accident that turned a loyal servant’s life into a grim legend. Dunty Porteous served Sir Alexander Jardine, a respected laird and magistrate. One day, Sir Alexander had Porteous imprisoned in the castle’s dungeon — possibly for safekeeping during a legal matter or minor offence. The exact reason remains lost to time, but what is known is that Sir Alexander was suddenly called away to Edinburgh. In the haste of departure, he forgot his servant was locked below. By the time he returned, the door was opened to reveal a horrific scene — Porteous had died of starvation and thirst, his cries unheard within the thick walls. The incident is said to have driven Sir Alexander into deep remorse. But it was not only guilt that haunted him. Soon after the tragedy, the tower was filled with terrifying sounds — groaning, pounding, and ghostly cries that echoed through the stone chambers. The servants reported hearing a desperate voice calling out, “Let me oot, Sir Alexander!” and, chillingly, “I’m deein’ o’ hunger!” Unable to endure the disturbances, Sir Alexander sought help from the minister of Applegirth, who performed an exorcism and confined the spirit into a Bible, which was then built into a recess in the dungeon wall. Peace returned to Spedlin’s Tower — for a time. Generations later, when the Jardine family relocated to Jardine Hall, they took the Bible with them, perhaps unaware of the legend’s warning. Almost immediately, the hauntings began anew — doors slamming, ghostly voices, and sudden gusts of icy air. Recognising their mistake, the family quickly returned the Bible to its resting place in the tower, after which the disturbances reportedly ceased once again. Today, Spedlin’s Tower still stands, privately owned but visible across the Annan Valley. Visitors and locals continue to speak of strange happenings — whispers on the wind, flickering lights at night, and an overwhelming sense of melancholy near the old dungeon. Some claim that on still evenings, the faint cry of “Bread, for God’s sake, give me bread!” can be heard drifting from within the stone walls. More than a ghost story, the tale of Spedlin’s Tower captures a uniquely Scottish blend of tragedy, faith, and folklore — a centuries-old reminder that guilt and grief can echo far beyond the grave.