One of the main attractions at Stirling Castle is re-opening to visitors this weekend for the first time in two years after being restored to its regal glory.

The royal apartments of James V and Mary of Guise are part of a £12m makeover at the castle which has taken nearly 10 years to realise, employing specialist traditional craftsmen and artists, and there are still another two years to go.

A total of six apartments are being decorated with authentic-style tapestries, furnishings and wall hangings, all made in the castle's own workshops.

Gillian Macdonald, Stirling Castle's executive manager, said: "This is one of the biggest projects that Historic Scotland has ever undertaken.

"It's the last phase in a very long-term project at Stirling Castle, but probably the most exciting. It's going to give visitors an idea of what the court was like in the 16th century."

Hundreds of visitors are expected to flock to the castle for the grand opening of the Renaissance Royal Palace.

A range of new interactive exhibits have also been introduced for younger visitors, while jesters, musicians and dancers will mark the official opening.