Queen to hire out palace for receptions

THE Queen's official residence in Scotland is to branch out into the world of corporate hospitality as part of a pilot project for her palaces.

Companies and organisations will be able to host receptions and arrange for canapes and fork buffets to be laid on at Holyrood Palace for the first time under plans to be rolled out over the next few months.

The events will only be staged after the palace has closed to the public for the day.

However, palace officials insist anyone looking to hire out the historic mews courtyard and cafe areas for an event must book guided tours of the palace or its art gallery.

The venture means corporate guests, who will be treated to a champagne reception as part of the package, will become regular fixtures in the palace in the evening for the first time.