The British Royal Family is opening the doors of its Scottish home, Balmoral Castle, to artists.

Managers at the royal estate in Aberdeen believe the castle, crags of Lochnagar and wildlife should provide inspiration for artists, and the clean air and clear light of the Scottish countryside should prove perfect tools. They are offering a week's painting holiday in October this year.

The course will be run by Susie Hunt, who specialises in watercolour, mixed media and life work.