Sauchie Tower

About

Sauchie Tower, standing amid quiet woodland near Fishcross, is one of Clackmannanshire’s most atmospheric medieval tower houses. Built in the early 15th century for Sir James Schaw, it served as both residence and symbol of status, its tall, narrow profile typical of Scottish fortified architecture. Though now roofless, the tower remains remarkably intact, offering a powerful sense of its original scale and purpose. Inside, visitors can explore the lower vaulted chamber, once used for storage and service work. The upper floors, reached by a tight spiral stair, reveal traces of domestic life: fireplaces, window seats and the remnants of timber floors that once supported private rooms. These features show how the Schaw family balanced defence with comfort, adapting the tower over generations. One of the most intriguing aspects is the nearby 17th‑century dovecote, an elegant circular structure that reflects the estate’s prosperity. Interpretive panels explain how the tower formed part of a larger complex, including gardens and later mansion buildings now lost.

Alloa Scotland

Location

Sauchie Tower, also known as Devon Tower, is located near the village of Fishcross, just north of Sauchie and Alloa in Clackmannanshire, Scotland. You can find this 15th-century stone tower house at Fishcross, Alloa, FK10 3AN. Set on sloping ground near the River Devon, it stands as one of the key historic strongholds along the Clackmannanshire Tower Trail. The surrounding area features a wonderful collection of historic towers, museums, and natural attractions to visit. Just a couple of miles south in Alloa, you can explore Alloa Tower, one of Scotland’s largest and oldest surviving medieval tower houses, or stop by The Speirs Centre to view local heritage displays. To the southeast lies Clackmannan Tower, perched high on King's Seat Hill, alongside the historic Clackmannan Tolbooth in the heart of the village.Heading northwest toward the Ochil Hills, you can visit Menstrie Castle, a charming restored 16th-century tower house. Further east in Dollar, you can drop into the Dollar Museum before hiking up through the scenic gorge of Dollar Glen to reach the dramatic ruins of Castle Campbell. For outdoor recreation nearby, Gartmorn Dam Country Park offers peaceful lakeside walking trails around Scotland's oldest man-made reservoir. Major landmark sites like Stirling Castle and the National Wallace Monument are also just a short drive away, making Sauchie Tower a great stop on a historic loop through the region.