A children's picture book about the Palace of Holyroodhouse has been produced to mark the Queen's diamond jubilee.
The commemorative volume tells how James IV built a zoo for his many wild beasts, describes dramatic events such as the murder of David Rizzio, secretary to Mary, Queen of Scots and explains how it briefly became the headquarters of Bonnie Prince Charlie during the 1745 Jacobite uprising.
The book also reveals details of the Queen's annual garden party at the Palace, where almost 11,000 sandwiches and more than 30,000 slices of cake are served.
Alison Campbell, learning manager at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, said: "The book introduces younger readers to the magic, drama, romance, history and spectacle that is encapsulated in the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
"It brings the history of the Palace alive for children, introducing them to famous residents such as Bonnie Prince Charlie and, of course, Mary, Queen of Scots.
"We worked with primary school children during the development of the book, who gave us some great ideas, including a name for our Scottish lion, Lachlan, who readers have to spot hiding in the Palace."
The book, called Kings, Queens And A Scottish Lion, goes on sale at the Palace of Holyroodhouse shop and online priced £3.95 . It is the third children's book published by Royal Collection Publications, following Does The Queen Wear Her Crown in Bed?, about Buckingham Palace, and Will There Be Knights and Dragons?, about Windsor Castle.
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