A man has been seriously assaulted outside the Queen's official residence in Scotland and the Scottish Parliament.

The 27-year-old was attacked behind the Palace of Holyrood House, Edinburgh, in an area known locally as the Black Walk Path, at around 4.30am this morning, police said.

He was taken to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary for treatment. His condition has not been disclosed by police.

Police are seeking a second man who may also be injured, who is thought to have left the scene in the direction of the Royal Mile.

A large section of public ground outside the Scottish Parliament and the gates of the palace has been cordoned off for police forensic searches.

A police spokeswoman said: "Lothian and Borders Police is investigating a serious assault which took place earlier today in the vicinity of Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh.

"The victim, a 27-year-old man, is being treated for his injuries in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.

"Emergency services were called to the area around 4.30am, and police are appealing for anyone who witnessed this assault on Black Walk Path, close to Queens Drive at the rear of Holyrood Palace, to contact them or Crimestoppers.

"In particular, they would like to contact a white man in his early 20s who may also be injured.

"He is described as being six-foot tall, of slim build. He was wearing a light coloured short jacket, a light top, and dark trousers.

"He may have walked past the Scottish Parliament in the direction of the High Street."