Zara Phillips and Mike Tindall were all smiles on Sunday as they left the palace where their lavish wedding reception was held.

The newlyweds departed from the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh this afternoon in a chauffeur-driven silver Mercedes.

But instead of heading off on honeymoon, the sporting couple are postponing their break and preparing for a return to training this week.

Former equestrian world champion Zara, 30, will be competing in the Gatcombe Park horse trials later this week and England rugby star Tindall, 32, is likely to feature in a match against Wales next Saturday.

The couple tied the knot at a private ceremony in front of their families and friends at Canongate Kirk in the Scottish capital, where large crowds of well-wishers turned out on the streets to cheer and wave flags.

The pair went on to celebrate their wedding with the Queen and members of the Royal family at Holyroodhouse, the monarch’s official residence in Scotland. Earlier on Sunday, Mr Tindall was spotted at the palace apparently wearing the same blue shirt and grey trousers he had been sporting on his big day.

Zara was glowing in white jeans, a beige short-sleeved top and flip flops.

The Royal bride will remain Zara Phillips to preserve her sporting name.