Benholm’s Lodge was built by Sir Robert Keith of Benholm, a younger brother of the Earl Marischal, who had founded Marischal College. Keith bought the land upon which the house once sat in 1588 and the house was built shortly afterwards. In 1965 its original site at Netherkirkgate in the city centre was developed and the building was moved and reconstructed in its present location. A plaque marks its original location in the city centre whilst a second plaque on the building tells the story of the building and its travels. The period drawing above shows Benholm’s Lodge at its original location.
The house is a fortified townhouse, with two round towers at the south-west and north east corners of the building. The building features a number of carved heraldic stones of interest. It also features a carved stone figure of a man holding a sword. In the 18th century the building acquired the name of the Wallace Tower and it has been suggested that the figure represents William Wallace. This is unlikely, as the figure is probably a representation of Robert Keith and the name Wallace Tower probably derives from Well-House Tower.
Over the centuries, the house has had many different and varied occupants and uses. In 1768, it was owned by one John Niven, a snuff and tobacco merchant. Niven extended the front of the building and added a south wing. In 1895 one James Pirie, a spirit dealer, bought the house and it became the Wallace Tower Pub.