Langholm tourist information

In a lovely setting on the River Esk, the border town of Langholm is an attractive and historic town.

In the heart of Border reiver country, in the 15th and 16th centuries these lands were disputed and dangerous places to be, dominated by raiding clans such as the Armstongs. Today there is a museum devoted to the Armstong clan in Langholm, and visitors can also get a feel for the past during the Common Riding in late July. Riders on horseback parade through Langholm in an event originally used to mark the boundaries of the town in the 19th century, but now an important local festival.

The renowned Scottish poet Hugh MacDiarmid was born in Langholm in 1892, and after moving away, was finally buried in his hometown. There is an memorial to him in the town, an unusual book-shaped bronze sculpture.