King Charles III is going through a turbulent period due to his brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, currently being under investigation for suspicion of misconduct in public office. His Majesty is keen to keep the monarchy running and his business-as-usual approach means appearing at the Commonwealth Day service earlier this week and opening his royal residences as per the original schedule. However, the high winds in Norfolk have thwarted one particular feature at Sandringham.
On Thursday, the iconic playpark on estate grounds was forced to close for safety reasons. A message on the website read: “Due to forecast high winds, the Play Area will be closed today for visitor safety. We ask that visitors take care and be mindful of high winds when visiting the Royal Parkland. The Shop, Courtyard Restaurant, and Terrace are open as usual. Thank you for your understanding.”
© Photo: SplashSandringham’s impressive playpark has had to be closed
The Met Office data shows the area could face up to 50mph winds, which is in the category of gale-force winds as per the official Beaufort scale. This news comes after the play area was already closed on Monday for “seasonal maintenance”.
It is not unusual for the King’s homes to be affected by adverse weather. In January, the estate was battered by Storm Chandra and Balmoral Castle often gets closed unexpectedly due to snow.
© GettyAn aerial view of the Sandringham estate taken in 2003
Rave reviews
The huge play area at Sandringham is a hit with families, complete with a slide, a castle, a log swing, high bridges and climbing frames. It is free to access and has garnered swathes of glowing reviews online. One Google review said: “Sandringham Children’s Play Area is a fantastic, free spot for families! Most of the playground structures are beautifully made from wood, giving them a natural and rustic feel. It’s set right in the middle of the woods, which makes it peaceful and unique.
“There’s so much for kids to explore and enjoy – they’ll stay happily busy for hours. The whole area is clean and well-maintained, with toilets nearby and plenty of benches for parents to relax or enjoy a mini picnic.”
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House and Gardens to open this month
© Getty ImagesSandringham estate and house has been in the British royal family since 1862
The house and gardens are due to open on 28 March for the summer season, which runs all the way through until 9 October.
Want to know what to expect when you go? Our Deputy Online Editor, Sharnaz Shahid, has visited nearly all of the royal residences open to the public, and Sandringham Estate is by far the favourite: “It’s easy to see why the royal family treasure it so much. There’s a sense of peace and quiet here that makes this place feel like a private home.”