In this book, the first official history of the Palace of Holyroodhouse, expert authors will chronicle the fascinating and surprisingly varied account of Her Majesty The Queen’s official residence in Scotland, from the twelfth century to the present day.

From its origins in the twelfth-century abbey and a place of religious sanctuary, to the setting of an infamous court murder, the early history of the site will cover uncharted territory as well as shedding light on well-known stories. James IV’s lost Renaissance palace will be reimagined using newly commissioned archaeological plans and maps. The unlikely residence of Jacobites, a Russian Princess, and even a few lions, the palace later served as a family home to Queen Victoria and Prince Albert on their way to Balmoral.

Specially commissioned reconstructions of the palace at various stages in its development will illustrate the function and social history of the building and the surrounding landscape and grounds, which are still used by The Queen today to host garden parties and investitures and other events every year.