Ceremony of the Keys: The history behind the famous military spectacle

The Ceremony of the Keys is a historic event held at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, heralding a week-long celebration of Scottish culture and traditions, attended by the monarch.

The tradition marks the official start of Royal Week, a period when the King spends time engaging with the Scottish people and participating in various events across the country.

The King is offered the keys to the city by the Lord Provost during the traditional ceremony and returns them as a gesture of faith in the local administration.

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Royal Week, also known as Holyrood Week, has deep roots dating back to the 19th century when Queen Victoria established the tradition of spending time in Scotland.

On the first day of the week, usually in late June or early July, the King arrives at the palace.

This arrival is marked by a formal procession, with a guard of honour composed of Scottish regiments, accompanied by a military band.

This spectacle sets the tone for the week's festivities, blending ceremonial splendour with Scottish tradition.

During the ceremony, the Lord Provost of Edinburgh as the official figurehead of the city, says: "We, the Lord Provost and the members of the City of Edinburgh Council, welcome Your Majesty to the capital city of your ancient and hereditary kingdom of Scotland and offer for your gracious acceptance the keys of Your Majesty's good city of Edinburgh."

Traditionally, while returning the keys, the King then replies: "I return these keys, being perfectly convinced that they cannot be placed in better hands than those of the Lord Provost and councillors of my good city of Edinburgh."

The monarch traditionally inspects troops when he takes up residence at the castle.

Previously, the guard of honour of Holyrood Palace included members of the Balaklava Company of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders who were on official duty for the week.

Members of F Company have also provided the Guard of Honour for Her Majesty in previous years, as well as troops from 5th Battalion the Royal Regiment of Scotland.

Last year marked the first time King Charles III attended the Ceremony of the Keys at his official residence in Scotland as monarch.

A 21-gun salute was fired to welcome His Majesty to the Scottish capital.  

The Ceremony of the Keys is a public event, allowing residents and visitors to witness this historic ritual.

It is usually followed by a garden party, where the King welcomes around 8,000 people from all walks of Scottish life to enjoy a leisurely afternoon with him in the picturesque gardens of the palace.