Secrets of the Royal Palaces

An unveiling of some of the many secrets held by Buckingham Palace, including its former rat problem, and the part it played in Charles and Diana's courtship.

Part medieval fortress, part French chateau, Balmoral is not to everyone's taste but it provides a retreat from prying eyes for the Royals.

Windsor Castle is a fortress, built over 900 years ago to house an army as well as the court. Edward III, obsessed with tales of Camelot, guided the reconstruction.

Sandringham in Norfolk, purchased in 1861 for Prince Edward, is one of the few royal residences owned personally by the Windsors.

The smallest Royal residence currently in use, Highgrove House in Gloucester was renovated by Prince Charles and features a multiple 'room' outdoor garden which has been described as an 'organic oasis."