King Charles III of Britain has sought refuge at Sandringham House, a private estate, following his first cancer treatment. Located about 110 miles north of London, Sandringham has been owned by the royal family since 1862 and holds a special place in the hearts of Charles and his family.
Sandringham offers the king the isolation he needs during his treatment, as it is surrounded by its own grounds. Infection must be avoided, making the privacy and seclusion of Sandringham ideal for Charles. The estate provides a sanctuary where he can receive the care he needs and focus on his health.
The history of Sandringham goes back centuries. Recorded in the Domesday Book as 'Sant Dersingham,' it later became known as Sandringham. Queen Victoria purchased the estate for her son Edward in 1862, hoping that it would keep him away from the temptations of city life. The estate holds significance for the royal family, with King George V describing it as a place he loved more than anywhere else in the world.
Sandringham has long been a place for leisure and outdoor activities. Charles, even at the age of 75, continues to enjoy hiking and shooting on the estate. The Norfolk coast, where Sandringham is located, offers fresh air and beautiful surroundings. The cold winds blowing straight down from the Arctic Circle into North Norfolk add to the charm, reminding visitors to come prepared for the chilly weather.
The king also values his interactions with the estate's staff and tenants. Over the years, Charles has developed personal relationships with them, adding to the sense of community and familiarity at Sandringham. Even during his university days at Cambridge, he would invite friends for weekends of shooting and relaxation.
Sandringham has witnessed moments that shaped Charles' personal life. It was at this estate that his marriage to Princess Diana began to crumble. Diana's refusal to let their sons, Princes William and Harry, join a weekend party at Sandringham marked a turning point in their troubled relationship. This incident eventually led to Charles asking for a legal separation.
While parts of Sandringham are accessible to the public, there are limits to what visitors can see. The main eight ground floor rooms of Sandringham House are open to the public from April to October. The parklands covering over 600 acres and 60 acres of gardens are also open for exploration. Additionally, there is a museum showcasing gifts received by the royal family from dignitaries worldwide. Visitors can enjoy food, including the famous afternoon tea, at the on-site restaurant and cafe.
Among the unique traditions at Sandringham is the late Queen Elizabeth II's strategy to keep litter under control. She suggested printing 'Sandringham House' on the paper cups for tea and coffee, ensuring visitors would take them home as souvenirs.
Sandringham House serves as an important retreat for King Charles III during his cancer treatment. With its rich history, natural beauty, and cherished memories, Sandringham offers the king a refuge where he can focus on healing and find solace amidst the challenging times.
