Sandringham

There are really several attractions at Sandringham; the house, the royal museum, the gardens, the parish church, and the country park. Of these, the gardens were the first to be opened to the public, when Edward VII made them available to visitors in 1903. George V opened the Museum to the public in 1930, and Elizabeth II opened the house to visitors in 1977.

I must make mention of the excellent guides at Sandringham house; there are very knowledgeable and friendly tour guides in each of the main rooms of the house, and they are very informative and helpful to visitors. They told us how several of the current royal family enjoy their leisure time at Sandringham, and even what several family members enjoy having for breakfast!

The nearby church of St Mary Magdalene is a gem. It is located an very easy walk from the gardens and features beautifully carved memorials to royal family members. The church was built in the 16th century on the foundations of an earlier building, and the royal family and staff of the Sandringham estate worship here regularly.

The Museum, which is situated in the historic stable buildings, boasts a wealth of royal memorabilia, including a number of motor cars used by the Royal family, plus the old estate fire engine, and quite a number of photos of past and present royals at home at Sandringham over the years. You will also see some of the many gifts given to Her Majesty the Queen on her overseas state visits over the years.

The house is set in a huge estate of 20,000 acres, of which 600 acres make up Sandringham Country Park. The Country Park is open to visitors year-round, at no charge. There are two signposted nature trails and a large number of woodland paths to explore. Or, if you don't fancy the exertion, you can take one of the regular tractor tours throughout the main tourist season (charge applies).

Visiting

I'm not a 'royal-a-holic', but I thoroughly enjoyed our visit. I thought Sandringham house was a delight, with lovely rooms and a very welcoming, low-key atmosphere. I really got the impression that people enjoyed working there. The gardens are an absolute pleasure, with lovely walks and a combination of formal and informal areas to enjoy. It is best to check opening days with the official Sandringham website, as the house may be closed when the Queen or other family members are in residence.