West Port House

A fortified laird's house now located well above street level on the south side of the road, West Port House was completed c.1600, although the gun-loops suggest the facade may represent part of an older building. Its position became elevated because the level of the street was dropped c.1790 to ease its gradient. The house features crow-stepped gables and comprises three storeys with a turnpike stair to a south-facing wing, giving an L-plan layout. It was altered in the 18th C., including a reduction in height. The property was A-listed in 1971, then restored and converted into three flats in 1990 by local architect William Cadell.

West Port House was built by James Hamilton of Silvertonhill and became the home of the Hamiltons of Belsyde and Westport. Major General Ilay Ferrier, who raised a regiment known as the 'Scotch Brigade' which fought with distinction in India and Portugal, was born here in 1746.


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