United Kingdom

Discover the United Kingdom: A Tapestry of History, Royalty, and Natural Wonders

Embark on a journey to the United Kingdom, an archipelago where history and modernity intertwine in a rich tapestry that spans thousands of years. Located off the northwestern coast of mainland Europe, the UK is composed of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, each with its own unique heritage and allure. From the Neolithic Orkney to the Roman baths of Bath, the Norman conquest to the industrial revolution, the UK's legacy is as diverse as its landscapes.

Chronicles of the Isles: A Storied Past

The United Kingdom's narrative is marked by legendary monarchs, literary greats, and epoch-defining events. Its sovereignty has influenced global history, language, and culture, with a monarchy that continues to capture the world's imagination.

London: The Crown Jewel

In the heart of the UK, London stands as a global metropolis, boasting landmarks such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the Houses of Parliament, alongside the modernity of the Shard and the cultural haven of the West End.

Edinburgh: A Capital of Culture

Travel north to Scotland's Edinburgh, where the iconic Edinburgh Castle looms over a city renowned for its festivals, arts, and the historic Royal Mile.

The Lake District: Nature's Masterpiece

England's Lake District offers tranquil beauty, with its idyllic lakes, mountainous landscapes, and literary associations with Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter.

The Giant's Causeway: Geological Splendor

In Northern Ireland, the Giant's Causeway showcases an awe-inspiring coastal landscape of basalt columns, born from volcanic fury and Irish legend.

From the rugged coasts of Cornwall to the sweeping valleys of Wales, and the picturesque glens of the Scottish Highlands, the United Kingdom invites exploration of its castles, cathedrals, and quaint villages. As you traverse through travel.frogsfolly.com, let us guide you through the UK's living history, its vibrant cultures, and its awe-inspiring natural beauty. Join us to discover the United Kingdom—a land where every stone tells a story and every landscape inspires a dream.

United Kingdom
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<p>STATE OPENING OF THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT, 27 JUNE 2026<br />
<br />
The Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament was officially opened on Saturday 27 June 2026 with King Charles III and Queen Camilla in attendance. The State Opening marked the formal commencement of the Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament which was elected on 7 May 2026 with Members of the Scottish Parliament sworn in on 14 May 2026.<br />
<br />
The Crown of Scotland was escorted from Edinburgh Castle to the Parliament by soldiers from Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland and from 127 (Dragon) Battery of the Royal Artillery accompanied by the Pipes and Drums of the 2nd Battalion and the Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland. The Crown was taken into the Parliament through the entrance on Horse Wynd. The Crown was then placed in the chamber during the ceremony. It was borne by the Duke of Hamilton and Brandon escorted by The Lord Lyon King of Arms, Dr Joseph Morrow. The Officers of Arms were accompanied by young people from various organisations.<br />
<br />
The Band and troops from the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the Royal Artillery subsequently marched into the Palace of Holyroodhouse through the entrance on Queen’s Drive. The troops then lined the short route from the Palace to the Queensberry House entrance to the Parliament on Canongate to be taken by Their Majesties. A separate Guard of Honour provided by the Royal Regiment of Scotland then marched into the forecourt of the Palace of Holyroodhouse to give a Royal Salute to the King on his arrival.<br />
<br />
King Charles arrived by helicopter from Balmoral to Holyrood Park and entered the Palace of Holyroodhouse via the back gate where he was welcomed by Richard Scott, 10th Duke of Buccleuch, Scotland’s premier Duke.<br />
<br />
The event combined formal parliamentary tradition with cultural celebration, reflecting both Scotland’s democratic processes and its rich heritage. The ceremony, which included a formal address by the King to officially open the Parliament.<br />
<br />
The Presiding Officer welcomed Their Majesties who had taken the short journey from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to the Queensberry House entrance of the Scottish Parliament in a Rolls Royce where they were welcomed by the Rt Hon Lord Provost, Robert Aldridge and the Presiding Officer, Kenneth Gibson.<br />
<br />
Opening remarks were made by the Presiding Officer, Kenneth Gibson, His Majesty the King addressed the chamber and the First Minister, John Swinney responded.<br />
<br />
Following the formal proceedings, Their Majesties attended a reception with “local heroes”, individuals nominated by Members of the Scottish Parliament for their extraordinary contributions to communities across Scotland.<br />
<br />
The King walked across the street and into the King’s Gallery to go back into the Palace of Holyroodhouse whilst the Queen travelled by car.</p>
			<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/veryamateurish/">veryamateurish</a> posted a photo:</p>
	
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<p>STATE OPENING OF THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT, 27 JUNE 2026<br />
<br />
The Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament was officially opened on Saturday 27 June 2026 with King Charles III and Queen Camilla in attendance. The State Opening marked the formal commencement of the Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament which was elected on 7 May 2026 with Members of the Scottish Parliament sworn in on 14 May 2026.<br />
<br />
The Crown of Scotland was escorted from Edinburgh Castle to the Parliament by soldiers from Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland and from 127 (Dragon) Battery of the Royal Artillery accompanied by the Pipes and Drums of the 2nd Battalion and the Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland. The Crown was taken into the Parliament through the entrance on Horse Wynd. The Crown was then placed in the chamber during the ceremony. It was borne by the Duke of Hamilton and Brandon escorted by The Lord Lyon King of Arms, Dr Joseph Morrow. The Officers of Arms were accompanied by young people from various organisations.<br />
<br />
The Band and troops from the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the Royal Artillery subsequently marched into the Palace of Holyroodhouse through the entrance on Queen’s Drive. The troops then lined the short route from the Palace to the Queensberry House entrance to the Parliament on Canongate to be taken by Their Majesties. A separate Guard of Honour provided by the Royal Regiment of Scotland then marched into the forecourt of the Palace of Holyroodhouse to give a Royal Salute to the King on his arrival.<br />
<br />
King Charles arrived by helicopter from Balmoral to Holyrood Park and entered the Palace of Holyroodhouse via the back gate where he was welcomed by Richard Scott, 10th Duke of Buccleuch, Scotland’s premier Duke.<br />
<br />
The event combined formal parliamentary tradition with cultural celebration, reflecting both Scotland’s democratic processes and its rich heritage. The ceremony, which included a formal address by the King to officially open the Parliament.<br />
<br />
The Presiding Officer welcomed Their Majesties who had taken the short journey from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to the Queensberry House entrance of the Scottish Parliament in a Rolls Royce where they were welcomed by the Rt Hon Lord Provost, Robert Aldridge and the Presiding Officer, Kenneth Gibson.<br />
<br />
Opening remarks were made by the Presiding Officer, Kenneth Gibson, His Majesty the King addressed the chamber and the First Minister, John Swinney responded.<br />
<br />
Following the formal proceedings, Their Majesties attended a reception with “local heroes”, individuals nominated by Members of the Scottish Parliament for their extraordinary contributions to communities across Scotland.<br />
<br />
The King walked across the street and into the King’s Gallery to go back into the Palace of Holyroodhouse whilst the Queen travelled by car.</p>
			<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/veryamateurish/">veryamateurish</a> posted a photo:</p>
	
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/veryamateurish/55425620606/" title="Img840256nxi_conv"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55425620606_736b588219_m.jpg" width="240" height="170" alt="Img840256nxi_conv" /></a></p>

<p>STATE OPENING OF THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT, 27 JUNE 2026<br />
<br />
The Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament was officially opened on Saturday 27 June 2026 with King Charles III and Queen Camilla in attendance. The State Opening marked the formal commencement of the Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament which was elected on 7 May 2026 with Members of the Scottish Parliament sworn in on 14 May 2026.<br />
<br />
The Crown of Scotland was escorted from Edinburgh Castle to the Parliament by soldiers from Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland and from 127 (Dragon) Battery of the Royal Artillery accompanied by the Pipes and Drums of the 2nd Battalion and the Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland. The Crown was taken into the Parliament through the entrance on Horse Wynd. The Crown was then placed in the chamber during the ceremony. It was borne by the Duke of Hamilton and Brandon escorted by The Lord Lyon King of Arms, Dr Joseph Morrow. The Officers of Arms were accompanied by young people from various organisations.<br />
<br />
The Band and troops from the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the Royal Artillery subsequently marched into the Palace of Holyroodhouse through the entrance on Queen’s Drive. The troops then lined the short route from the Palace to the Queensberry House entrance to the Parliament on Canongate to be taken by Their Majesties. A separate Guard of Honour provided by the Royal Regiment of Scotland then marched into the forecourt of the Palace of Holyroodhouse to give a Royal Salute to the King on his arrival.<br />
<br />
King Charles arrived by helicopter from Balmoral to Holyrood Park and entered the Palace of Holyroodhouse via the back gate where he was welcomed by Richard Scott, 10th Duke of Buccleuch, Scotland’s premier Duke.<br />
<br />
The event combined formal parliamentary tradition with cultural celebration, reflecting both Scotland’s democratic processes and its rich heritage. The ceremony, which included a formal address by the King to officially open the Parliament.<br />
<br />
The Presiding Officer welcomed Their Majesties who had taken the short journey from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to the Queensberry House entrance of the Scottish Parliament in a Rolls Royce where they were welcomed by the Rt Hon Lord Provost, Robert Aldridge and the Presiding Officer, Kenneth Gibson.<br />
<br />
Opening remarks were made by the Presiding Officer, Kenneth Gibson, His Majesty the King addressed the chamber and the First Minister, John Swinney responded.<br />
<br />
Following the formal proceedings, Their Majesties attended a reception with “local heroes”, individuals nominated by Members of the Scottish Parliament for their extraordinary contributions to communities across Scotland.<br />
<br />
The King walked across the street and into the King’s Gallery to go back into the Palace of Holyroodhouse whilst the Queen travelled by car.</p>
			<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/veryamateurish/">veryamateurish</a> posted a photo:</p>
	
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/veryamateurish/55426010755/" title="Img840325nxi_conv"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55426010755_607d9b64ea_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Img840325nxi_conv" /></a></p>

<p>STATE OPENING OF THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT, 27 JUNE 2026<br />
<br />
The Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament was officially opened on Saturday 27 June 2026 with King Charles III and Queen Camilla in attendance. The State Opening marked the formal commencement of the Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament which was elected on 7 May 2026 with Members of the Scottish Parliament sworn in on 14 May 2026.<br />
<br />
The Crown of Scotland was escorted from Edinburgh Castle to the Parliament by soldiers from Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland and from 127 (Dragon) Battery of the Royal Artillery accompanied by the Pipes and Drums of the 2nd Battalion and the Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland. The Crown was taken into the Parliament through the entrance on Horse Wynd. The Crown was then placed in the chamber during the ceremony. It was borne by the Duke of Hamilton and Brandon escorted by The Lord Lyon King of Arms, Dr Joseph Morrow. The Officers of Arms were accompanied by young people from various organisations.<br />
<br />
The Band and troops from the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the Royal Artillery subsequently marched into the Palace of Holyroodhouse through the entrance on Queen’s Drive. The troops then lined the short route from the Palace to the Queensberry House entrance to the Parliament on Canongate to be taken by Their Majesties. A separate Guard of Honour provided by the Royal Regiment of Scotland then marched into the forecourt of the Palace of Holyroodhouse to give a Royal Salute to the King on his arrival.<br />
<br />
King Charles arrived by helicopter from Balmoral to Holyrood Park and entered the Palace of Holyroodhouse via the back gate where he was welcomed by Richard Scott, 10th Duke of Buccleuch, Scotland’s premier Duke.<br />
<br />
The event combined formal parliamentary tradition with cultural celebration, reflecting both Scotland’s democratic processes and its rich heritage. The ceremony, which included a formal address by the King to officially open the Parliament.<br />
<br />
The Presiding Officer welcomed Their Majesties who had taken the short journey from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to the Queensberry House entrance of the Scottish Parliament in a Rolls Royce where they were welcomed by the Rt Hon Lord Provost, Robert Aldridge and the Presiding Officer, Kenneth Gibson.<br />
<br />
Opening remarks were made by the Presiding Officer, Kenneth Gibson, His Majesty the King addressed the chamber and the First Minister, John Swinney responded.<br />
<br />
Following the formal proceedings, Their Majesties attended a reception with “local heroes”, individuals nominated by Members of the Scottish Parliament for their extraordinary contributions to communities across Scotland.<br />
<br />
The King walked across the street and into the King’s Gallery to go back into the Palace of Holyroodhouse whilst the Queen travelled by car.</p>
			<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/veryamateurish/">veryamateurish</a> posted a photo:</p>
	
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/veryamateurish/55425629976/" title="Img840361nxi_conv"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55425629976_bb415cdc5b_m.jpg" width="207" height="240" alt="Img840361nxi_conv" /></a></p>

<p>STATE OPENING OF THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT, 27 JUNE 2026<br />
<br />
The Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament was officially opened on Saturday 27 June 2026 with King Charles III and Queen Camilla in attendance. The State Opening marked the formal commencement of the Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament which was elected on 7 May 2026 with Members of the Scottish Parliament sworn in on 14 May 2026.<br />
<br />
The Crown of Scotland was escorted from Edinburgh Castle to the Parliament by soldiers from Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland and from 127 (Dragon) Battery of the Royal Artillery accompanied by the Pipes and Drums of the 2nd Battalion and the Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland. The Crown was taken into the Parliament through the entrance on Horse Wynd. The Crown was then placed in the chamber during the ceremony. It was borne by the Duke of Hamilton and Brandon escorted by The Lord Lyon King of Arms, Dr Joseph Morrow. The Officers of Arms were accompanied by young people from various organisations.<br />
<br />
The Band and troops from the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the Royal Artillery subsequently marched into the Palace of Holyroodhouse through the entrance on Queen’s Drive. The troops then lined the short route from the Palace to the Queensberry House entrance to the Parliament on Canongate to be taken by Their Majesties. A separate Guard of Honour provided by the Royal Regiment of Scotland then marched into the forecourt of the Palace of Holyroodhouse to give a Royal Salute to the King on his arrival.<br />
<br />
King Charles arrived by helicopter from Balmoral to Holyrood Park and entered the Palace of Holyroodhouse via the back gate where he was welcomed by Richard Scott, 10th Duke of Buccleuch, Scotland’s premier Duke.<br />
<br />
The event combined formal parliamentary tradition with cultural celebration, reflecting both Scotland’s democratic processes and its rich heritage. The ceremony, which included a formal address by the King to officially open the Parliament.<br />
<br />
The Presiding Officer welcomed Their Majesties who had taken the short journey from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to the Queensberry House entrance of the Scottish Parliament in a Rolls Royce where they were welcomed by the Rt Hon Lord Provost, Robert Aldridge and the Presiding Officer, Kenneth Gibson.<br />
<br />
Opening remarks were made by the Presiding Officer, Kenneth Gibson, His Majesty the King addressed the chamber and the First Minister, John Swinney responded.<br />
<br />
Following the formal proceedings, Their Majesties attended a reception with “local heroes”, individuals nominated by Members of the Scottish Parliament for their extraordinary contributions to communities across Scotland.<br />
<br />
The King walked across the street and into the King’s Gallery to go back into the Palace of Holyroodhouse whilst the Queen travelled by car.</p>
			<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/veryamateurish/">veryamateurish</a> posted a photo:</p>
	
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/veryamateurish/55425738633/" title="Img840327nxi_conv"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55425738633_5cd62a81c8_m.jpg" width="240" height="161" alt="Img840327nxi_conv" /></a></p>

<p>STATE OPENING OF THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT, 27 JUNE 2026<br />
<br />
The Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament was officially opened on Saturday 27 June 2026 with King Charles III and Queen Camilla in attendance. The State Opening marked the formal commencement of the Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament which was elected on 7 May 2026 with Members of the Scottish Parliament sworn in on 14 May 2026.<br />
<br />
The Crown of Scotland was escorted from Edinburgh Castle to the Parliament by soldiers from Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland and from 127 (Dragon) Battery of the Royal Artillery accompanied by the Pipes and Drums of the 2nd Battalion and the Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland. The Crown was taken into the Parliament through the entrance on Horse Wynd. The Crown was then placed in the chamber during the ceremony. It was borne by the Duke of Hamilton and Brandon escorted by The Lord Lyon King of Arms, Dr Joseph Morrow. The Officers of Arms were accompanied by young people from various organisations.<br />
<br />
The Band and troops from the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the Royal Artillery subsequently marched into the Palace of Holyroodhouse through the entrance on Queen’s Drive. The troops then lined the short route from the Palace to the Queensberry House entrance to the Parliament on Canongate to be taken by Their Majesties. A separate Guard of Honour provided by the Royal Regiment of Scotland then marched into the forecourt of the Palace of Holyroodhouse to give a Royal Salute to the King on his arrival.<br />
<br />
King Charles arrived by helicopter from Balmoral to Holyrood Park and entered the Palace of Holyroodhouse via the back gate where he was welcomed by Richard Scott, 10th Duke of Buccleuch, Scotland’s premier Duke.<br />
<br />
The event combined formal parliamentary tradition with cultural celebration, reflecting both Scotland’s democratic processes and its rich heritage. The ceremony, which included a formal address by the King to officially open the Parliament.<br />
<br />
The Presiding Officer welcomed Their Majesties who had taken the short journey from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to the Queensberry House entrance of the Scottish Parliament in a Rolls Royce where they were welcomed by the Rt Hon Lord Provost, Robert Aldridge and the Presiding Officer, Kenneth Gibson.<br />
<br />
Opening remarks were made by the Presiding Officer, Kenneth Gibson, His Majesty the King addressed the chamber and the First Minister, John Swinney responded.<br />
<br />
Following the formal proceedings, Their Majesties attended a reception with “local heroes”, individuals nominated by Members of the Scottish Parliament for their extraordinary contributions to communities across Scotland.<br />
<br />
The King walked across the street and into the King’s Gallery to go back into the Palace of Holyroodhouse whilst the Queen travelled by car.</p>
			<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/veryamateurish/">veryamateurish</a> posted a photo:</p>
	
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/veryamateurish/55426009740/" title="Img840332nxi_conv"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55426009740_8cd9fbc7eb_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Img840332nxi_conv" /></a></p>

<p>STATE OPENING OF THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT, 27 JUNE 2026<br />
<br />
The Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament was officially opened on Saturday 27 June 2026 with King Charles III and Queen Camilla in attendance. The State Opening marked the formal commencement of the Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament which was elected on 7 May 2026 with Members of the Scottish Parliament sworn in on 14 May 2026.<br />
<br />
The Crown of Scotland was escorted from Edinburgh Castle to the Parliament by soldiers from Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland and from 127 (Dragon) Battery of the Royal Artillery accompanied by the Pipes and Drums of the 2nd Battalion and the Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland. The Crown was taken into the Parliament through the entrance on Horse Wynd. The Crown was then placed in the chamber during the ceremony. It was borne by the Duke of Hamilton and Brandon escorted by The Lord Lyon King of Arms, Dr Joseph Morrow. The Officers of Arms were accompanied by young people from various organisations.<br />
<br />
The Band and troops from the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the Royal Artillery subsequently marched into the Palace of Holyroodhouse through the entrance on Queen’s Drive. The troops then lined the short route from the Palace to the Queensberry House entrance to the Parliament on Canongate to be taken by Their Majesties. A separate Guard of Honour provided by the Royal Regiment of Scotland then marched into the forecourt of the Palace of Holyroodhouse to give a Royal Salute to the King on his arrival.<br />
<br />
King Charles arrived by helicopter from Balmoral to Holyrood Park and entered the Palace of Holyroodhouse via the back gate where he was welcomed by Richard Scott, 10th Duke of Buccleuch, Scotland’s premier Duke.<br />
<br />
The event combined formal parliamentary tradition with cultural celebration, reflecting both Scotland’s democratic processes and its rich heritage. The ceremony, which included a formal address by the King to officially open the Parliament.<br />
<br />
The Presiding Officer welcomed Their Majesties who had taken the short journey from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to the Queensberry House entrance of the Scottish Parliament in a Rolls Royce where they were welcomed by the Rt Hon Lord Provost, Robert Aldridge and the Presiding Officer, Kenneth Gibson.<br />
<br />
Opening remarks were made by the Presiding Officer, Kenneth Gibson, His Majesty the King addressed the chamber and the First Minister, John Swinney responded.<br />
<br />
Following the formal proceedings, Their Majesties attended a reception with “local heroes”, individuals nominated by Members of the Scottish Parliament for their extraordinary contributions to communities across Scotland.<br />
<br />
The King walked across the street and into the King’s Gallery to go back into the Palace of Holyroodhouse whilst the Queen travelled by car.</p>
			<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/veryamateurish/">veryamateurish</a> posted a photo:</p>
	
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/veryamateurish/55425794459/" title="Img840257nxi_conv"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55425794459_95d790ac84_m.jpg" width="240" height="170" alt="Img840257nxi_conv" /></a></p>

<p>STATE OPENING OF THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT, 27 JUNE 2026<br />
<br />
The Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament was officially opened on Saturday 27 June 2026 with King Charles III and Queen Camilla in attendance. The State Opening marked the formal commencement of the Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament which was elected on 7 May 2026 with Members of the Scottish Parliament sworn in on 14 May 2026.<br />
<br />
The Crown of Scotland was escorted from Edinburgh Castle to the Parliament by soldiers from Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland and from 127 (Dragon) Battery of the Royal Artillery accompanied by the Pipes and Drums of the 2nd Battalion and the Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland. The Crown was taken into the Parliament through the entrance on Horse Wynd. The Crown was then placed in the chamber during the ceremony. It was borne by the Duke of Hamilton and Brandon escorted by The Lord Lyon King of Arms, Dr Joseph Morrow. The Officers of Arms were accompanied by young people from various organisations.<br />
<br />
The Band and troops from the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the Royal Artillery subsequently marched into the Palace of Holyroodhouse through the entrance on Queen’s Drive. The troops then lined the short route from the Palace to the Queensberry House entrance to the Parliament on Canongate to be taken by Their Majesties. A separate Guard of Honour provided by the Royal Regiment of Scotland then marched into the forecourt of the Palace of Holyroodhouse to give a Royal Salute to the King on his arrival.<br />
<br />
King Charles arrived by helicopter from Balmoral to Holyrood Park and entered the Palace of Holyroodhouse via the back gate where he was welcomed by Richard Scott, 10th Duke of Buccleuch, Scotland’s premier Duke.<br />
<br />
The event combined formal parliamentary tradition with cultural celebration, reflecting both Scotland’s democratic processes and its rich heritage. The ceremony, which included a formal address by the King to officially open the Parliament.<br />
<br />
The Presiding Officer welcomed Their Majesties who had taken the short journey from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to the Queensberry House entrance of the Scottish Parliament in a Rolls Royce where they were welcomed by the Rt Hon Lord Provost, Robert Aldridge and the Presiding Officer, Kenneth Gibson.<br />
<br />
Opening remarks were made by the Presiding Officer, Kenneth Gibson, His Majesty the King addressed the chamber and the First Minister, John Swinney responded.<br />
<br />
Following the formal proceedings, Their Majesties attended a reception with “local heroes”, individuals nominated by Members of the Scottish Parliament for their extraordinary contributions to communities across Scotland.<br />
<br />
The King walked across the street and into the King’s Gallery to go back into the Palace of Holyroodhouse whilst the Queen travelled by car.</p>
			<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/veryamateurish/">veryamateurish</a> posted a photo:</p>
	
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/veryamateurish/55425792314/" title="Img840286nxi_conv"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55425792314_699c7ededd_m.jpg" width="240" height="177" alt="Img840286nxi_conv" /></a></p>

<p>STATE OPENING OF THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT, 27 JUNE 2026<br />
<br />
The Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament was officially opened on Saturday 27 June 2026 with King Charles III and Queen Camilla in attendance. The State Opening marked the formal commencement of the Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament which was elected on 7 May 2026 with Members of the Scottish Parliament sworn in on 14 May 2026.<br />
<br />
The Crown of Scotland was escorted from Edinburgh Castle to the Parliament by soldiers from Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland and from 127 (Dragon) Battery of the Royal Artillery accompanied by the Pipes and Drums of the 2nd Battalion and the Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland. The Crown was taken into the Parliament through the entrance on Horse Wynd. The Crown was then placed in the chamber during the ceremony. It was borne by the Duke of Hamilton and Brandon escorted by The Lord Lyon King of Arms, Dr Joseph Morrow. The Officers of Arms were accompanied by young people from various organisations.<br />
<br />
The Band and troops from the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the Royal Artillery subsequently marched into the Palace of Holyroodhouse through the entrance on Queen’s Drive. The troops then lined the short route from the Palace to the Queensberry House entrance to the Parliament on Canongate to be taken by Their Majesties. A separate Guard of Honour provided by the Royal Regiment of Scotland then marched into the forecourt of the Palace of Holyroodhouse to give a Royal Salute to the King on his arrival.<br />
<br />
King Charles arrived by helicopter from Balmoral to Holyrood Park and entered the Palace of Holyroodhouse via the back gate where he was welcomed by Richard Scott, 10th Duke of Buccleuch, Scotland’s premier Duke.<br />
<br />
The event combined formal parliamentary tradition with cultural celebration, reflecting both Scotland’s democratic processes and its rich heritage. The ceremony, which included a formal address by the King to officially open the Parliament.<br />
<br />
The Presiding Officer welcomed Their Majesties who had taken the short journey from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to the Queensberry House entrance of the Scottish Parliament in a Rolls Royce where they were welcomed by the Rt Hon Lord Provost, Robert Aldridge and the Presiding Officer, Kenneth Gibson.<br />
<br />
Opening remarks were made by the Presiding Officer, Kenneth Gibson, His Majesty the King addressed the chamber and the First Minister, John Swinney responded.<br />
<br />
Following the formal proceedings, Their Majesties attended a reception with “local heroes”, individuals nominated by Members of the Scottish Parliament for their extraordinary contributions to communities across Scotland.<br />
<br />
The King walked across the street and into the King’s Gallery to go back into the Palace of Holyroodhouse whilst the Queen travelled by car.</p>
			<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/veryamateurish/">veryamateurish</a> posted a photo:</p>
	
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/veryamateurish/55424650337/" title="Img840276nxi_conv"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55424650337_3963a27838_m.jpg" width="240" height="200" alt="Img840276nxi_conv" /></a></p>

<p>STATE OPENING OF THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT, 27 JUNE 2026<br />
<br />
The Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament was officially opened on Saturday 27 June 2026 with King Charles III and Queen Camilla in attendance. The State Opening marked the formal commencement of the Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament which was elected on 7 May 2026 with Members of the Scottish Parliament sworn in on 14 May 2026.<br />
<br />
The Crown of Scotland was escorted from Edinburgh Castle to the Parliament by soldiers from Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland and from 127 (Dragon) Battery of the Royal Artillery accompanied by the Pipes and Drums of the 2nd Battalion and the Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland. The Crown was taken into the Parliament through the entrance on Horse Wynd. The Crown was then placed in the chamber during the ceremony. It was borne by the Duke of Hamilton and Brandon escorted by The Lord Lyon King of Arms, Dr Joseph Morrow. The Officers of Arms were accompanied by young people from various organisations.<br />
<br />
The Band and troops from the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the Royal Artillery subsequently marched into the Palace of Holyroodhouse through the entrance on Queen’s Drive. The troops then lined the short route from the Palace to the Queensberry House entrance to the Parliament on Canongate to be taken by Their Majesties. A separate Guard of Honour provided by the Royal Regiment of Scotland then marched into the forecourt of the Palace of Holyroodhouse to give a Royal Salute to the King on his arrival.<br />
<br />
King Charles arrived by helicopter from Balmoral to Holyrood Park and entered the Palace of Holyroodhouse via the back gate where he was welcomed by Richard Scott, 10th Duke of Buccleuch, Scotland’s premier Duke.<br />
<br />
The event combined formal parliamentary tradition with cultural celebration, reflecting both Scotland’s democratic processes and its rich heritage. The ceremony, which included a formal address by the King to officially open the Parliament.<br />
<br />
The Presiding Officer welcomed Their Majesties who had taken the short journey from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to the Queensberry House entrance of the Scottish Parliament in a Rolls Royce where they were welcomed by the Rt Hon Lord Provost, Robert Aldridge and the Presiding Officer, Kenneth Gibson.<br />
<br />
Opening remarks were made by the Presiding Officer, Kenneth Gibson, His Majesty the King addressed the chamber and the First Minister, John Swinney responded.<br />
<br />
Following the formal proceedings, Their Majesties attended a reception with “local heroes”, individuals nominated by Members of the Scottish Parliament for their extraordinary contributions to communities across Scotland.<br />
<br />
The King walked across the street and into the King’s Gallery to go back into the Palace of Holyroodhouse whilst the Queen travelled by car.</p>
			<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/veryamateurish/">veryamateurish</a> posted a photo:</p>
	
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/veryamateurish/55426019775/" title="Img840238nxi_conv"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55426019775_8195e06567_m.jpg" width="240" height="184" alt="Img840238nxi_conv" /></a></p>

<p>STATE OPENING OF THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT, 27 JUNE 2026<br />
<br />
The Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament was officially opened on Saturday 27 June 2026 with King Charles III and Queen Camilla in attendance. The State Opening marked the formal commencement of the Seventh Session of the Scottish Parliament which was elected on 7 May 2026 with Members of the Scottish Parliament sworn in on 14 May 2026.<br />
<br />
The Crown of Scotland was escorted from Edinburgh Castle to the Parliament by soldiers from Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland and from 127 (Dragon) Battery of the Royal Artillery accompanied by the Pipes and Drums of the 2nd Battalion and the Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland. The Crown was taken into the Parliament through the entrance on Horse Wynd. The Crown was then placed in the chamber during the ceremony. It was borne by the Duke of Hamilton and Brandon escorted by The Lord Lyon King of Arms, Dr Joseph Morrow. The Officers of Arms were accompanied by young people from various organisations.<br />
<br />
The Band and troops from the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the Royal Artillery subsequently marched into the Palace of Holyroodhouse through the entrance on Queen’s Drive. The troops then lined the short route from the Palace to the Queensberry House entrance to the Parliament on Canongate to be taken by Their Majesties. A separate Guard of Honour provided by the Royal Regiment of Scotland then marched into the forecourt of the Palace of Holyroodhouse to give a Royal Salute to the King on his arrival.<br />
<br />
King Charles arrived by helicopter from Balmoral to Holyrood Park and entered the Palace of Holyroodhouse via the back gate where he was welcomed by Richard Scott, 10th Duke of Buccleuch, Scotland’s premier Duke.<br />
<br />
The event combined formal parliamentary tradition with cultural celebration, reflecting both Scotland’s democratic processes and its rich heritage. The ceremony, which included a formal address by the King to officially open the Parliament.<br />
<br />
The Presiding Officer welcomed Their Majesties who had taken the short journey from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to the Queensberry House entrance of the Scottish Parliament in a Rolls Royce where they were welcomed by the Rt Hon Lord Provost, Robert Aldridge and the Presiding Officer, Kenneth Gibson.<br />
<br />
Opening remarks were made by the Presiding Officer, Kenneth Gibson, His Majesty the King addressed the chamber and the First Minister, John Swinney responded.<br />
<br />
Following the formal proceedings, Their Majesties attended a reception with “local heroes”, individuals nominated by Members of the Scottish Parliament for their extraordinary contributions to communities across Scotland.<br />
<br />
The King walked across the street and into the King’s Gallery to go back into the Palace of Holyroodhouse whilst the Queen travelled by car.</p>
			<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/11479087@N04/">rugby#9</a> posted a photo:</p>
	
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/11479087@N04/55425676368/" title="DSC09031"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55425676368_4a5eb6c049_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="DSC09031" /></a></p>

<p>Jet2 flight LS867, a 1625d for Dalaman</p>
			<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/144291588@N06/">Scotland by NJC.</a> posted a photo:</p>
	
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/144291588@N06/55425552766/" title="The Moniack Burn flowing north to the Beauly Firth in Reelig Glen. One Douglas Fir was 62 metres tall in 2007. It is now 66.7 metres or 219 feet tall, the tallest tree in the UK and Europe!"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55425552766_41dba50693_m.jpg" width="160" height="240" alt="The Moniack Burn flowing north to the Beauly Firth in Reelig Glen. One Douglas Fir was 62 metres tall in 2007. It is now 66.7 metres or 219 feet tall, the tallest tree in the UK and Europe!" /></a></p>

<p>Commentary.<br />
<br />
<br />
Paths to Middle Earth.<br />
Steep, shaded, wooded gorges.<br />
Cataracts, waterfalls and gushing burns.<br />
A micro-climate, wet, humid and green.<br />
Mosses, lichens, algae and ferns.<br />
Surreal, unreal, mystical, magical<br />
 glens that impact our imagination.<br />
Light filters through the dense canopy<br />
and dances on the cascading waters.<br />
Some crannies dark and foreboding,<br />
others pierced by radiant beams of brilliant light.<br />
There are many such places in Scotland.<br />
Gorges on the River Findhorn, The Hermitage in Perthshire,<br />
Corrieshalloch Gorge in Wester Ross.<br />
Puck’s Glen in Argyll and <br />
Finnich Glen in Stirlingshire, to name but a few.<br />
Reelig Glen, near Beauly in Inverness-shire is shown here.<br />
The Moniack Burn flows northwards to the Beauly Firth<br />
through this primeval, other worldly glen.<br />
Previous flows, particularly following Ice-Ages,<br />
eroded the local metamorphosed sedimentary rock<br />
to produce a gorge, a cleft, over 200 feet deep in places.<br />
This seemingly Jurassic landscape, has its own living giants,<br />
trees between 150 and 220 feet tall!<br />
An amazing and beautiful place.</p>
			<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/12251748@N03/">Philip George</a> posted a photo:</p>
	
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/12251748@N03/55425709139/" title="20260727 Rockford Common, New Forest-1"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55425709139_99b9549921_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="20260727 Rockford Common, New Forest-1" /></a></p>

<p>I went out looking for heather, as it is almost that time again. However, I found this lovely composition, with the little white cloud.</p>
			<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/number10gov/">UK Prime Minister</a> posted a photo:</p>
	
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/number10gov/55425678054/" title="Prime Minister Andy Burnham visits Alstom Transport"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55425678054_87fe84e982_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Prime Minister Andy Burnham visits Alstom Transport" /></a></p>

<p>28/07/2026. Derby, United Kingdom. Prime Minister Andy Burnham meets with apprentices and graduates at Alstom Transport. Picture by Lauren Hurley / No 10 Downing Street</p>
			<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/nvoaden/">Terathopius</a> posted a photo:</p>
	
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/nvoaden/55425640399/" title="Red-breasted Merganser, Lochindorb, Highland"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55425640399_72a4ceafb2_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Red-breasted Merganser, Lochindorb, Highland" /></a></p>


			<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/dbtdigital/">Department for Business and Trade</a> posted a photo:</p>
	
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dbtdigital/55425288701/" title="Prime Minister Andy Burnham appoints Cabinet"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55425288701_a9b14b3596_m.jpg" width="160" height="240" alt="Prime Minister Andy Burnham appoints Cabinet" /></a></p>

<p>20/07/2026. London, United Kingdom. Prime Minister Andy Burnham appoints Kanishka Narayan as Minister of State (Minister for Artificial Intelligence) jointly in the Cabinet Office and the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade. Picture by Alecsandra Dragoi / No 10 Downing Street</p>
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