A NEW display celebrating Scotland's highest honour – the Order of the Thistle – is to go on show in the Capital.

The Thistle is awarded to Scots who have made a major contribution to national life as a personal gift from the Queen on St Andrew's Day.

The display includes the velvet robes and insignia worn by Thistle Knights and Ladies.

Legend has it the Order of the Thistle has its roots as far back as 809, when King Archaius of Scotland forged an alliance with the Emperor Charlemagne.

Last year, Lord Cullen of Whitekirk and Garth Morrison were appointed Knights of the Thistle and will be installed this summer.

The display runs at the Palace of Holyroodhouse from April 25th until October 31st.

Palace of Holyroodhouse The Royal Collection

Opening hours

The Palace is open daily

1 November -20 March
09:30-16:30 (last admission 15:30)

22 March to 31 October
09:30-18:00 (last admission 17:00)

24 December
09:30-14:00 (last admission 13:00)

31 December
09:00-15:00 (last admission 14:00)

1 January
11:00-16:30 (last admission 15:30)

The Palace is closed

10-22 May
31 May - 6 June
24 June - 5 July
25-26 December
and during Royal Visits