ABOUT US
A Rich
History
Built in 1434, welcome to one of Edinburgh’s oldest pubs
Our story
Past to Present
The Kings Wark is situated by the waters of ‘The Shore’ – which for many centuries was the trading centre of Leith. Built in 1434, it has a history few pubs can rival.
The Kings Wark was originally designed as a Royal residence, store house and private armoury for James I, but has also served as a smugglers hut, plague hospital, weigh house and a retail and wine merchant.
Recognising its importance, the building was rebuilt by Queen Mary of Scotland after being mostly destroyed in the Hertford Invasion in 1544.
A Royal Residence
The royal residence was originally a tower house which remained partially owned and operated by descendants of James I and other royalty for some time.
King James VI and wife the Queen, Princess Anne of Denmark also stayed there before gifting the lands to innkeeper Bernard Lindsay in 1613, of whom Leith’s Bernard street is named.
Present
The King’s Wark Today
With its wooden floors and panelling, exposed stone and charming exterior, The King’s Wark still remains reminiscent of days gone by. Always warm and welcoming, enjoy some of Edinburgh’s best gastro-pub food, with an emphasis on fresh local produce, meat, game and sustainable seafood.
The extensive drinks menu offers everything from cask ales and fine wines, to exceptional cocktails – so come in and enjoy a relaxed drink or an evening with friends inside a little slice of Edinburgh’s history.
