Arnagill Tower

Arnagill Tower stands on Masham Moor in North Yorkshire. It is a round folly built in 1824 to look like a ruin. The walls stop about three metres from the ground, leaving the base open. John Foss designed the tower with one storey, a doorway and three arched windows. Gwyn Headley called it a Gothic mood piece, linked to the nearby Druid’s Temple. The building was listed at grade II in 1986. The tower is worth the journey for its unusual design and setting. It was built as a picturesque feature on the moor rather than for defence. Its Gothic style and ruined appearance make it a rare example of a 19th-century folly. The link to the Druid’s Temple adds to its interest. The listing recognises its historic and architectural value. Inside, visitors find a single room with the doorway and windows. The arched openings frame views of the moorland around. The open base allows light to enter and adds to the ruin-like effect. The tower sits quietly on the moor, away from roads and buildings. Its simplicity and isolation make it a peaceful place to visit.