A beautiful home set in a lush 20,000-acre (8,094-hectare) estate of gardens, woodland and lakes, Sandringham House is known as a retreat of the Royal family. Queen Victoria bought the property in 1862, to give to her son (the future Edward VII) and his wife to use as their family home. In 1865, Edward decided that there was simply not enough room for his growing family and their possessions, and so the original hall from 1771 was taken down and a new building replaced it. The new house was a firm favourite with all of the family, and every British monarch since has taken residence here, traditionally spending New Year at the house.
Visiting Sandringham
Sandringham House opened to the public in 1977 and, today,
visitors can explore the ground floor of the sumptuous palace,
including its grand reception rooms. The stables are also open, and
feature a varied range of Royal memorabilia including the Royal
vintage car collection. Among the motors on display are the first
ever Royal car from 1900, and the small electric cars driven around
the estate by young princes and future kings.