Queen to start week of Scots engagements in Edinburgh

THE Queen will begin a week of engagements in Scotland as she takes part in the ancient Ceremony of the Keys in the capital today.

The Queen is to begin a week of engagements in Scotland with the Ceremony of the Keys today. Picture: Getty

During the ceremony she will be received into Edinburgh by the Lord Provost and be given the keys of the city and welcomed to her “ancient and hereditary kingdom of Scotland”.

In keeping with tradition, she will then hand them back, entrusting their safekeeping to the city’s elected officials.

The Guard of Honour will be provided by Fire Support Company, The Royal Highland Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland (FSp Coy, 2 SCOTS), supported by their Pipes and Drums and The Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland (SCOTS Band).

The Duke of Edinburgh will also attend the ceremony.

The ceremony marks the start of Holyrood Week, during which the Queen undertakes a variety of engagements in Scotland to celebrate Scottish culture, history and achievement.