purplecat | Earl's Palace, Birsay

There are two Earl's Palaces on Mainland Orkney which was a source of some confusion to us. This one was older and closer to where we were staying. It was built by one Earl Robert, half-brother to Mary Queen of Scots, after he was made Sheriff of Orkney. Work started in 1569, but it was in use for less than 100 years, his son building a larger Earl's Palace in Kirkwall.

Ruined wall of a palace with multiple chimney stacks.

Ruined wall of a palace with multiple chimney stacks.

Ruined palace from the road. People entering the gate.

View through a stone doorway to ruins beyond.

Remains of a circular tower with steps just visible going up.