Turnbull Country: In Search of a Border Reiver Clan

It Begins in Minto…

In the quiet village of Minto, nestled between Jedburgh and Hawick, a small graveyard reveals the first sign of the Turnbull story. Several stones bear the name—a clue to the clan that once ruled these lands.

But these aren’t just names on granite. They are reminders of a family whose roots run deeper than stone.

Fatlips Tower: A Fortress with a View

High on Minto Crags, Fatlips Tower rises above the valley like something out of a painting. First built by the Turnbulls in the early 1500s, this was a seat of power, pride, and protection.

“To choose this spot for a tower tells you everything about the family’s ambition.”

Though damaged during the 1545 Rough Wooing under the Earl of Hertford, the tower still stands—rebuilt and resilient, much like the family it represents.

The Name “Turnbull” — Born of Bravery

In 1315, King Robert the Bruce was reportedly saved from a charging bull by a man named William of Rule. In gratitude, the king granted him land—and a new name: Turn the Bull.

That name—Turnbull—was born in blood, muscle, and loyalty. A legacy forged in heroism.

Barnhills Tower: Hidden and Fierce

Deeper into the woods, we reach the haunting ruin of Barnhills Tower. Overgrown, forgotten, yet stunning. Built for war, not luxury—its gun ports and thick walls whisper tales of conflict.

This tower, too, fell in 1545, but its shell still speaks volumes.

“You can almost hear the boots, the shouting, the loading of muskets…”

The Rule Valley: True Turnbull Homeland

The heartland of the Turnbulls is the Rule Valley, near modern-day Bedrule. Here, William of Rule once ruled—literally.

All across this valley are traces of Turnbull strongholds—Fulton Tower, Bedrule Castle, and what might be their secret jewel: Fast Castle (not the East Coast one!).

Fulton Tower, like Barnhills, is a ghost of its former self—but a solid one, with walls still standing and stories still clinging.

No Peerages, No Glory?

Unlike other clans, the Turnbulls were never granted peerages or titles. Some say they were simply too unruly. King James IV once summoned 200 Turnbull men to appear before him in linen sheets—most were hanged.

“An act of punishment, or an attempt to erase a threat?”

The Castle That Isn’t There…

At Bedrule, only a plaque remains. But nearby, Fast Castle (this one nestled in the valley) offers a more dramatic picture—a clear motte (earthwork) protected by steep slopes and the Rule Water below.

You can see Fatlips Tower from here, standing like a sentinel on the crags. It’s all connected.

Turnbulls Today: From Ruins to the World

Despite their persecution, the Turnbulls survived. Today, they are a global clan—with branches in the USA, Canada, Australia, and beyond.

But no matter where you are, if you carry the Turnbull name—or the fire of the Borders in your blood—this is your homeland.

“If you’re a Turnbull, this valley is your ground zero.”

Final Thoughts

Were the Turnbulls heroes or outlaws? Warriors or rebels? The truth lies somewhere in between. But one thing is certain: their legacy is carved into the very landscape of the Borders.

Come and stand on the banks of the Rule Water, listen to the wind through the ruins, and feel the pull of the past.

This is Turnbull Country. And it remembers.