Prehistory & Ancient Borders · Galashiels
Rink Iron Age Fort Uncovered: A 2000-Year-Old Secret Near Galashiels
A 2,000-year-old hill fort near Galashiels, long hidden beneath dense woodland, is revealed as trees are cleared for the first time in over a century. This spring, Rink Fort steps back into the light—ready to share its ancient story.
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A 2,000-year-old hill fort near Galashiels, long hidden beneath dense woodland, is revealed as trees are cleared for the first time in over a century. This spring, Rink Fort steps back into the light—ready to share its ancient story. Load the film below, then press play to watch it here in the archive.
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Privacy & cookiesDeep in the heart of the Scottish Borders, something ancient has been stirring beneath the trees.
Just outside Galashiels, nestled in the rugged uplands above the River Tweed, lies a forgotten Iron Age hill fort known as Rink Fort. For over a century, this remarkable site has been hidden under a dense cloak of conifers—lost to time, shrouded in forest, and largely invisible to both locals and historians alike.
But all of that is changing.
Trees Fall, History Rises
In April of this year, a large-scale forestry operation cleared the non-native trees that had long blanketed the site. And what emerged was something truly special: the dramatic earthwork remains of a 2,000-year-old fortified settlement, once the stronghold of ancient Celtic tribes who ruled the Borders long before Rome arrived in Britain.
The removal of the trees has opened the landscape, revealing the contours of the fort in a way not seen for generations. Now, archaeologists and enthusiasts alike have a chance to study, explore, and perhaps redefine our understanding of early life in this part of Scotland.
What Is Rink Fort?
Rink Fort is believed to date back to the Iron Age, a time when tribal societies built hilltop enclosures for defence, status, and community life. Like many such sites in southern Scotland, Rink would have served as both a home and a stronghold—a safe haven overlooking the valley below.
Key features include:
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Massive circular ramparts that once encircled wooden roundhouses
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Steep defensive slopes, making it difficult for attackers to approach
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Panoramic views of the Tweed Valley—ideal for spotting rival tribes or Roman scouts
Until now, these features were almost impossible to see due to the thick forest that had taken over the site in the late 19th and 20th centuries.
A New Chapter for an Ancient Site
Now that Rink Fort has been revealed, it opens up exciting opportunities for:
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Archaeological surveys and excavations
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Drone mapping and digital reconstructions
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Public education and heritage tourism
The site may hold clues to how Iron Age tribes in the Borders lived, traded, and defended their territories—especially in a region known for its network of hill forts, from the Eildons to the Selkirk Hills.
Visiting Rink Fort
The site is located just a few miles northwest of Galashiels, perched above the River Tweed near Rink Hill. With the trees now cleared, walkers and history lovers can finally see the layout of the fort from public paths and vantage points.
Note: As with all ancient sites, it’s important to respect the land—avoid disturbing any features and follow access guidelines.
If you’re visiting nearby landmarks like Abbotsford, Melrose Abbey, or the Tweed Valley Railway Path, adding Rink Fort to your route makes for a fascinating detour into Scotland’s tribal past.
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