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Repairs for 86-92 GrassmarketEdinburgh World Heritage has awarded a repayable grant of £29,394 towards the restoration of 86-92 Grassmarket.
The category B listed buildings were designed in the late 1800’s by the architect John Lessels, and built in the Scottish Baronial style. Their distinctive crow- stepped gables are striking features of the North Grassmarket skyline.
The Grassmarket has an infamous history as the site of public executions. One of the most famous was that of Maggie Dickson on 2 September 1724. Despite being hung under the 1690 Concealment of Pregnancy Act, she miraculously survived the noose, earning the nickname ‘Half- Hangit Maggie’. Maggie Dickson’s fame lives on today, immortalised in the name of the pub at No. 92.
(Below No. 86-92 Grassmarket c.1913 - courtesy of the Edinburgh Room.)
 In fact, throughout its history No. 92 has continuously been used as a public house.
In the early 1900's, the site was known as Peter McNie’s Public House whilst mid century it was branded ‘The Carrier’s Rest’. In the past No. 86 and 88 have been a Groceries and Provisions Store, a ‘Fish Restaurant’ and an ice cream parlour.
The restoration work involves urgent and extensive stonework repairs, and the reinstating of missing original features. Work will start in the New Year and is expected to be completed in autumn 2009.
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