Turnbull Trails

Minto

Historical significance to Turnbulls:  In the 14^th century, Minto was in the possession of the family of Turnbulls. It passed from them to the Stewarts, and eventually was sold to Gilbert Elliot, the ancestor of the present family of Minto.

Interesting Facts:  One of the more infamous of the Turnbull clan was John, Lord of Minto, nicknamed "out with the sword" because of his fiery temperament. It was said of him, “woe to the Englishman on the Borders who came within the reach of his sword...” He was taken prisoner in 1399, and held in the tower of London until 1413 and killed in 1424 during the battle of Cravat fighting with the French against the English.

William Turnbull, founder of Glasgow University, descended from the Turnbulls of Minto.  He was born in the early part of the fifteenth century.  He was educated for the church and later became bishop of Glasgow.

Sights to see:  Minto Parish Church is a must stop.  The Church is part of the Church of Scotland and is a Victorian building with a Gothic style.  It was completed in 1831 and replaced a much earlier medieval building close by which was recorded as far back as 1275.  The Church graveyard is testimony to the Turnbull influence in the town by its many Turnbull markers.  The cemetery contains a very interesting and wide collection of Celtic crosses.

View of Minto Parish Church from graveyard

Barnhills Tower, founded by the Turnbulls, is a 16th century stone rectangular tower house. The tower is in ruins now and only stands to the height of the first floor. It is visible from the road, though easiest to see in winter due to the dense cover of trees at other times of the year. 

Barnhills Tower is located south of the B6400 four miles west of Jedburgh on the A68-local roads.  It is built against the north bank of a small hill below Fatlips Castle.

Two examples of the Celtic crosses at Minto Parish

The Minto Golf Club runs through the small village.  Visitors are welcome with prior arrangements.

Entrance to Minto Golf Club

Nearby Fatlips Castle cannot be seen from the village.  Fatlips Castle was the Turnbull stronghold until sold to the Elliots of Minto in the early 1700’s.  It sits 730 feet high on Minto Crags and commands a spectacular view of the surrounding Teviot Valley.  Fatlips is historically significant to Turnbull history and will be featured as a separate Turnbull Trails destination.

Side roads accessible throughout the village of Minto offer some of the most spectacular views found in the Borders.  On a nice day, park the car and travel by foot exploring some of the country roads and beautiful scenery.