Sandringham is the country retreat of Her Majesty the Queen, and has been the private home of four generations of British monarchs since 1862.
This is reputed to be the Queen’s favourite residence - situated in Norfolk within easy reach of Kings Lynn it is a pleasant day out for a car drive and day out particularly in the summer months.
We visited Sandringham House and Gardens this last year in late August and were not disappointed in any way.
Outside the actual House and grounds are several large area for car parking (Free) and picnics. These areas are wooded and provide for an ideal rest and relaxing atmosphere. To one end of these areas is a spot set aside for a large Gift shop, Refreshments and Snack facilities, Plant sales and immaculately clean Toilets - We were also most pleasantly surprised at the prices which are most reasonable - Good on yer Queenie.
The Entrance Fee to the House and Gardens is also quite reasonable. The grounds are quite extensive however there is a free “Land Train” for those of us who are less mobile, and this winds around a limited section of the Gardens before skirting the House itself, and enabling good perspectives for photography.
The public are allowed to access one wing of the House which is so impressive for its combination of classic and everyday appearance - It is certainly a home which has the lived-in appearance with the normal collection of photographs etc which are similarly present in most of out homes. Obviously there is no access to the Queens Personal Chambers and the administration apartments. However it is most enjoyable and an insight into the everyday family style of the Royal family.
Obviously the grounds are most impressive and a pleasure to stroll around (with very few restrictions)
Following the visit to the house a small walk takes you to the Stable/ Museum/Café area. This is located discretely in yet another area surrounded by trees and is most interesting with actual examples of the royal family’s cars etc. through out the years. Everything within these magnificent grounds is presented most informally and tastefully with only the slightest hint of the exclusive class which the Queen and her family move.
Finally who could visit Sandringham, without visiting the small Church within the grounds at which the Royal Family attend whilst staying in this beautiful Norfolk location
Well worth the drive from Nottingham I am sure no one can possibly be disappointed with this particular AWAY DAY.
