The Folly, Sandringham Estate
One for the royally inclined, The Folly, a beautifully restored retreat on the Sandringham Estate, which of course is a royal residence in Norfolk, England, is now welcoming guests for overnight stays.
Part of the Oliver’s Travels collection, which is known for its unique breaks, the turreted hideaway offers guests a thorough unique chance to stay within the historic grounds, and one of the British royal family’s most beloved residences – and one that famously hosts the family for Christmas.
A general view of Sandringham house a country house which is privately owned by the British royal family, Sandringham, Norfolk. (RDImages/Epics/Getty Images)
Set within 20,000 acres of ancient woodland, pristine gardens and farmland the estate has a rich history, after all, it’s been a private royal residence since the 19th century when it was originally purchased by Queen Victoria in 1862 for her son, Prince Albert Edward (who later became King Edward VIII).
Queen Elizabeth II (1926 — 2022) on the 30th anniversary of her reign, with her husband Prince Philip (1921 — 2021) on their estate at Sandringham House, Norfolk, 4th February 1982. (Photo by Keystone/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)
Designed as a country retreat away from the prying eyes of London, the original house was largely replaced by a Jacobean-style residence in 1870 built by A J Humbert with involvement from Edward. A beloved estate it welcomed those within the upper elechons of society and was known as a lavish party pad – think raucous shooting parties, and it came complete with its own time zone, famously set half an hour ahead of GMT to maximize daylight for hunting.
The Folly, Sandringham Estate
Now, for the first time, guests can experience a taste of this legacy first-hand by booking The Folly. Sleeping up to six across three bedrooms set in two wings, it was formerly built as a tea retreat for ladies of the house, and later evolved into a refined, self-contained property.
The Folly, Sandringham Estate
Oliver Bell, Co-Founder of Oliver’s Travels, says, “We’re incredibly proud to introduce The Folly at Sandringham to our collection. At Oliver’s Travels, we’ve always championed holidays that are a little out of the ordinary — with a portfolio full of heritage-rich and characterful homes, The Folly is a natural fit.” He continues, “It’s a rare privilege to offer guests the chance to stay within the grounds of such an iconic estate. This property isn’t just a place to stay — it’s an experience steeped in history, comfort, and quiet grandeur. We’re excited to open the doors to such a unique retreat, and can’t wait to see the stories that unfold here.”
The Folly, Sandringham Estate
As you’d expect it has been tastefully refurbished, staying true to its original period featured from its arched doorways and cozy stone hearths to the hand-finished floors. For another personal touch, the property also showcases historical artefacts from the estate’s private collection, which can be seen throughout the space.
The Folly, Sandringham Estate
The kitchen and dining areas are finished in heritage turquoise, with butler sinks and traditional cabinetry. To kick back and relax, the drawing room opens out to landscaped gardens through elegant French doors, while the sitting room features William Morris wallpaper and a wood burner.
The Folly, Sandringham Estate
One bedroom includes access to a wraparound balcony, and there’s also a hidden staircase leading to the turret, offering far-reaching views across the estate.
Rates at The Folly at Sandringham start from £3,00 for a three-night stay for 6 people, to book visit oliverstravels.com.
The Folly, Sandringham Estate
The Sandringham Estate itself hosts an array of events throughout the year which will need to be booked separately, from a Safari Tour with Afternoon Tea to Heritage Live gigs (including Michael Bublé and Mariah Carey).
For those who want to venture further afield visit The White Horse Norfolk at Brancaster Staithe for its unbeatable sunset views and seafood, The Gin Trap Inn in Ringstead, a characterful pub that dates back to 17th century, the cozy village pub Rose & Crown in Snettisham, and while you’re there stop by The Old Store around the corner for some delicious baked goods. There’s even a boutique winery near by at Burnham Market, in the form of Cobble Hill, which welcomes visitors by for tours and tastings.
SNETTISHAM, ENGLAND: Birdwatchers gather as waders flock together seeking new feeding grounds during the incoming tide at the RSPB’s Snettisham Nature reserve in Snettisham, England. The reserve lies on the edge of ‘The Wash’, one of the most important bird estuaries in the UK, supporting over 300,000 birds. A few times every year higher than average tides force thousands of waders including Knot, Oystercatchers, Sanderlings, Black and Bar Tailed Godwit and Plover to take flight, and advance up the mud flats in search of food. The event is one of the most incredible wildlife spectacles in the UK. (Photo by Dan Kitwood/Getty Images)