STEWARDSHIP - Wildlife Conservation & Management

Caring for the irreplaceable Buccleuch countryside and its rich history is a labour of love for the Buccleuch family and Group.

In a legacy passed down through generations, the Duke sees himself as a steward of the magnificent estates; a protector of times past and present; a guardian for the future.

The historic countryside bears permanent testament to times gone by, its hills and valleys dotted with ancient monuments and castles, all of which need careful monitoring.

Newark Tower
Is the oldest monument on the Duke of Buccleuch’s beautiful Bowhill Estate and has been battered by invasion and centuries of inclement weather.

In a a bid to help preserve the Borders’s unique heritage, the Duke and his team of craftsmen are beginning the first stage in a comprehensive conservation project.

Martin Purvis, Building Services Manager for Bowhill, is overseeing the painstaking project which will take decades to complete.

“The Buccleuch family are very keen to respect and maintain the Tower to ensure it’s survival for future generations to come.

“It is a particularly delicate conservation project and great care will be taken to ensure the work is carried out to a satisfactory standard.

“As well as being a Grade A listed building, Newark Tower is also a scheduled ancient monument and should be considered a national treasure.”

The large surrounding barmkin wall is pierced with late 16th century keyhole gunloops.

Newark Tower enters the historic record in 1423ad as the "New Werk",
to replace the “Auld Werk.”

From early to mid 15th century the Tower was home to the Earls of Douglas.