Mar's Wark — Attraction in Scotland

Imposing façade of a former 16th century townhouse constructed for John Erskine, Earl of Mar. Erskine was governor of Edinburgh Castle until 1560, but became custodian of Stirling Castle after losing his governorship in Edinburgh. The house boasted many impressive details, some of which survive to this day. Notable features include the imitation cannons built into the turrets, inscribed panels, royal arms and statuettes. The house was converted to barracks in the early 18th century Jacobite rising, and was subsequently leased to the local council to serve as a workhouse, before suffering damage in the last Jacobite rising. Mar's Wark is situated beside a public road and is accessible at all times with no visitor charge. An information board is provided outlining its history and...

I just couldn't get enough of these ruins! I went back to them several times during our wanderings across the old city.

The façade is still full of wonderful details, like heraldic and inscribed panels, and gorgeous statues.

If you love history, you can find lots of information about this place online. It belonged to John Erskine, Earl of Mar, who was governor of Edinburgh Castle during the regency of Mary of Guise, from 1554 to 1560. He lost his governorship in Edinburgh, but became the hereditary keeper of...

The structure itself looks as if it could have been a prison, but upon reading the placard, it could not be further from truth! It is a townhouse that was built for the Earl of Mar, who was the keeper of...