Whitehall Pele Tower

Overview

Whitehall Pele Tower is a well-preserved 15th-century fortified house located near Blencogo, in Cumbria, England. Built during a period of constant Border raiding and local feuding, it served as a defensible residence for a prosperous family living in the turbulent Anglo-Scottish frontier zone. Although modest compared to major castles, Whitehall is one of the best surviving examples of a pele tower — a distinctive form of northern English architecture that combined domestic comfort with strong defensive design.

Early history

The tower was probably constructed in the late 14th or early 15th century, when the threat of Scottish raids and lawless Border reivers was at its height. It may have been built by a member of the Musgrave or Dacre family, both of whom held land in the area, or by another branch of the local gentry seeking security for their household and tenants. Pele towers like Whitehall were built throughout Cumberland and Northumberland as private strongholds, capable of sheltering both family and livestock during attacks.

Building and layout

Whitehall Pele Tower is rectangular in plan, built of sandstone rubble with walls nearly 1.5 metres thick. It originally rose three storeys high, with a vaulted basement used for storage and refuge, a hall and living quarters on the first floor, and sleeping chambers above. Access was through a small arched doorway, which could be barred from within, and narrow slit windows provided light and defence. The upper floors were reached by a spiral stair built into the wall thickness, leading to a parapet walk with commanding views over the surrounding countryside. Later, lower domestic ranges were added, transforming the tower into a small manor house.

Later history and restoration

By the 17th century, the Border region had become more peaceful following the union of England and Scotland under James VI and I. The tower was adapted for more comfortable living, with larger windows inserted and new domestic buildings attached. In the 19th century, Whitehall became part of a working farm, and the tower was restored in the 20th century to preserve its historic features. It is now a Grade I listed building and one of the few pele towers in Cumbria still in habitable condition.

Present condition

Today, Whitehall Pele Tower remains in excellent preservation, its massive walls and characteristic medieval form still clearly visible. The vaulted basement and spiral stair survive, and the adjoining farmhouse retains its later additions. The property is privately owned but recognised for its exceptional architectural and historical importance. Set within peaceful farmland near the Solway Plain, Whitehall stands as a vivid reminder of life along the Borders — a landscape once marked by danger and defence, now defined by history and endurance.