King Charles III is set to break away from his late mother’s winter tradition and leave Sandringham for Birkhall shortly after Boxing Day. The King will head to Scotland swiftly after the major festivities have ended, despite the late Queen traditionally staying at the royal residence until early February.
The late Queen, who died aged 96 in September, historically liked to remain at the estate for the anniversary of the death of her father, George VI, and the day she acceded the throne in 1952.
The former King died in his sleep, aged just 56, on February 6, 1952 at the ‘Big House’ on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk.
It is understood that Charles will continue the existing arrangements of spending as much of the festive season at his Scottish home.
The King will travel there in the New Year and will remain for several weeks.
Sources told the Mail that the King is intending on sticking to his usual routine, meaning a shorter Christmas period.
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Despite the King’s travel plans, it is understood that it will still be a big Christmas for the Royal Family, with an almost “full house” of royals.
This will not include Prince Harry, Meghan Markle and their two children, Archie and Lilibet.
Harry and Meghan will remain in the US with their children and Meghan’s mother, Doria Ragland.
The royals will still opt in for a show of unity as all royals are expected to attend the Christmas Day service at Sandringham church.
The King and Queen Consort will lead the tradition, with the Prince and Princess of Wales also in attendance.
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Sarah, Duchess of York is reportedly expected to attend along with her ex-husband Prince Andrew and their two daughters, Beatrice and Eugenie.
This is the first Chrismas without Queen Elizabeth II and Charles’ first as monarch.
