Lady's Tower

Sometimes you come across somewhere that takes your breath away and Lady's Tower did just that. The tower sits on the headland of Elie near Saucher Point commanding incredible views over the Firth of Forth.

The tower was built around 1770 for Lady Janet Anstruther, to provide somewhere for her to recuperate after her daily swim.

Lady Janet was born Janet Fall (Faa), the daughter of Captain James Fall, a wealthy Dunbar merchant. On October 4th 1750, she married Sir John Anstruther 2nd Baronet of Elie.

Lady Janet was reputed to be a beautiful lady with a captivating (some would say flirty) nature. Her strong personality and modern eccentric habits she earned herself the nickname, the Queen of the Gypsies which she enjoyed using when it suited her. Lady Janet's beauty and lifestyle inspired the book French Windows by Antoine Laurain.

The couple were not always popular in the local area. There was an occasion when Lady Janet complained that the village of Balclevie ruined her view, leading to Sir John having it destroyed. Local folklore speaks of a resident of the village placing a curse on Lady Janet. Sir John himself was renowned for his aggressiveness and truculent ways.

In the early 1770's, John and his business partner Robert Fall, established the Newark Coal and Salt Company. The remains of part of the operation can still be found at nearby St Monans Windmill and St Monans Salt Work which are well worth a visit.

When Lady Janet was ready to head out for her swim, a servant would ring a bell to notify the villagers to stay away, ensuring the Lady's privacy.

The tower has a fireplace that can still be seen today. This would ensure Lady Janet remained toasty warm during the recuperation after her swim.

Once you have investigated the tower and enjoyed the splendid views, it's time to see where the fine lady changed for her swim. If you make your way down to the small beach to the south of the tower, you will find her cave changing room.

The man made vaulted chamber served Lady Janet as a changing room. It would be where Lady Janet removed her clothing and not necessarily to change into swimwear. Apparently Lady Janet preferred swimming in the buff. What a great changing room!

It is with a heavy heart that it is time to leave this fantastic place, but maybe I'll take a walk back past the beautiful Elie Ness Lighthouse on the way back to the car.

Lady's Tower is a category C listed building with Historic Environment Scotland.

Lady's Tower is easily reached from the Ruby Bay car park. If you head to Elie Lighthouse first you will be able to see the tower and use the path from there.