A right royal Christmas

We take a look at how the royal family will spend their traditional festive holiday at Sandringham and some happy memories from years gone by

- MICHELLE GARNETT

When life is a whirlwind of state visits, ceremonies and public meet-and-greets, having a bolthole to escape to at Christmas is key. For King Charles III and his family, Sandringham House in Norfolk fits the bill.

"Sandringham IS Christmas. It has a very special place in the hearts of the royals," says royal commentator Duncan Larcombe. "Cameras are rarely invited in, so it's one of their most private residences. They feel 100% at ease there."

Despite an estimated 29 bedrooms, "it's small by royal standards," says royal author Ingrid Seward of the fine country house, which is set in 20,000 sprawling acres of woodland, fields and orchards. "Guests often have to stay in vacated servants' quarters or cottages in the grounds. But if the King beckons, people go, so it's up to him. One year, there were so many people Princess Anne pitched up with a caravan that she used at horse shows and she stayed in that."

The King has made a few minor adjustments, reportedly with the help of his sister-in-law Annabel Elliot, an interior designer and antiques dealer.

"There are limitations to what he can alter as it's a Jacobean Grade II listed building," says royal expert Robert Jobson. "But Charles and Camilla like things a little more luxurious than the late Queen, so they've introduced some nice little touches.

"The decor, towels and toiletries are more 'classy country home' than 'stark hotel' these days. His mother had paintings of horses on the walls. These have gradually changed to reflect the King's own interests."