Royal tradition at Sandringham followed by a relaxed family gathering at Anmer Hall
Christmas comes with a special bonus for Prince William and Catherine’s children. While the Royal Family gathers for its traditional festivities, the Wales family also makes space for a second, more laid-back celebration away from the spotlight.
As usual, King Charles III hosts the wider family at Sandringham House, where Christmas Day begins with the well-known church service that signals unity within the monarchy. The Wales family attends alongside senior royals, keeping with long-standing tradition.
After the formalities, the day often shifts into a different rhythm. The family typically returns to nearby Anmer Hall, their private home on the Sandringham estate. That is where Catherine’s parents join them, turning the afternoon into a second Christmas that feels far more informal.
Royal expert Ingrid Seward has previously described the arrangement as a careful balancing act. She noted that Christmas at Sandringham is important to the King, but that in past years the Wales family has headed back to Anmer Hall after church to enjoy lunch with Catherine’s family, effectively giving the children two celebrations in one day.
Anmer Hall also allows for a quieter start to Christmas morning. Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond explained that being so close to Sandringham means the family can wake up at home, enjoy stockings and presents, and then head to the main house later for the more formal events.
Even Sandringham itself has softened slightly. A source speaking to Vanity Fair said the once rigid festive dress code has been relaxed under King Charles, reducing the number of outfit changes, though black tie for Christmas dinner remains.
For the Wales children, it all adds up to the best of both worlds: royal tradition in the morning, followed by a warm, family-focused celebration that feels much closer to home.
