Sites and Monument Record: Falkirk Steeple (Falkirk Tolbooth) (SMR 433)

Description
Classical, 140 ft high, 4 stages, ashlar, much repaired in stucco; 1st stage 2-storey, channelled; 2nd stage inset Greek doric angle columns, arched opening with balustraded apron, pedimented; 3rd stage clock, splayed angles, panelled pillasters; 4th stage belfry, octagonal with Ionic columns; octagonal stone spire above. Ground floor shop, cells above, 4-storey building of 1802-3 which adjoined now removed. Damaged 1927 by lightning and repaired, upper 30 ft of spire rebuilt.
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Object detail

Site type
building
tolbooth
Site status
Listed A
Site history notes
The first tolbooth seems to have been erected some time in the 16th century. A charter of 1663 suggests that it was replaced at that time. A third tolbooth was built in 1697.
The present Steeple was built in 1813/4 and is the fourth to have occupied the site. In 1869 a part of the stone cornice gave way and fell to the ground. The Town Council immediately had it repointed and the cornices replaced by wooden ones. In 1927 the spire was hit by lightning and the upper structure sent crashing to the ground, killing a Barr's horse in the process.
Site conservation date
1813-1814
1697
Site grid ref
NS 8882 7991
Conservation status
Georgian
Post-Medieval

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