The Queens life is dedicated to her public every move is scrutinised, every word noted. But her homes are havens where peace can be found, away from watchful eyes; sanctuaries of private calm in a whirlwind life of public duty.

InThe Queens Houses, Alan Titchmarsh takes us on a tour of the royal residences, examining the personal family stories behind these magnificent buildings. Through personal reflections, interviews with royal staff and meticulous historical research, Alan looks beyond the formal grandeur of Buckingham Palace, the imposing structure of Windsor Castle and the private escape offered by Balmoral and others.

Illustrated with intimate family photographs and evocative memorabilia,The Queens Housesoffers a glimpse of life behind the state banquets and sovereign duties a respectful study of the royal family at home.

Originally trained at Hertfordshire College of Horticulture and Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Alan Titchmarsh is the author of over 40 books about gardening, includingHow to be a Gardener Book 1: Back to Basics, the fastest-selling of all time in the genre, and the bestsellingThe Kitchen Gardener: How to Grow Your Own Fruit and Veg. He writes forBBC Gardeners' World Magazine, and is gardening correspondent for theDaily ExpressandSunday Express. He has presentedGardeners' World, the annual coverage of The Chelsea Flower Show andNature of Britain, and has his own daily chatshow.

An affectionate look at the personal family stories behind the formal grandeur of the royal residences.>