CASTLE Howard’s replica set of crown jewels has gone on display in the house in celebration of the Queen's 90th birthday.

Commissioned for the Queen’s Silver Jubilee and made by Robert White & Co of London, the collection includes the Sovereign’s Orb, the Coronation Ring and the Imperial State Crown, as well as smaller pieces such as armills, spurs and anointing spoon.

Christopher Ridgway, Castle Howard curator, said: "The tradition of the English monarch wearing special robes and being ceremonially presented with regalia dates back to medieval times. The replicas which we’re putting on display in the house showcase some of the finest items from the collection, which many of our visitors will associate with the Queen who has been presented with them throughout her reign."

The replica crown jewels are based on the set originally made for the coronation of Charles II, under the direction of the royal goldsmith Sir Robert Vyner, in 1661. It was Charles II who bestowed the first Earldom of Carlisle on Charles Howard in the year of his coronation, and from whom Lady Cecilia Fitzroy, the current Nicholas Howard’s mother, was descended.

The collection will be on display in the Garden Hall and is included in house and grounds admission.

Visit castlehoward.co.uk for more information