It has been confirmed that King Charles will spend Christmas Day in Norfolk as the Royal Family marks their first Christmas since the death of the Queen.

Buckingham Palace confirmed to the Press Association that the monarch will travel to the Sandringham Estate, where Queen Elizabeth II traditionally hosted her family over the festive period.

During the Covid pandemic, she spent Christmas at Windsor Castle two years in a row – the first with the Duke of Edinburgh, separated from her wider family.

There had been much speculation on whether the new King and Queen Consort will enjoy the festivities from the Sandringham Estate.

This year, it is expected to be a "less buttoned up" celebration as Jennie Bond, the BBC's former royal correspondent, said King Charles wants his loved ones to focus on reminiscing about their happy times with the Queen. 

From the Queen hopping on board the train to King's Lynn in her headscarf to the thousands of well-wishers who would gather in all weathers to greet the sovereign and her growing family, the Royals have been a part of the festive season in Norfolk for many years.

This year will see King Charles pre-record his historic, first ever Christmas Broadcast as monarch, when he will likely reflect on the loss of his mother and her legacy.

The royals are still expected to attend a service at St Mary Magdalene Church on the Sandringham Estate before returning home for their Christmas meal.

The Prince and Princess of Wales and their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis are often among the gathered guests.

Traditionally, members of the royal family sit down to watch the televised address when it airs after lunch, usually at 3pm on December 25.

Meanwhile, Windsor Castle has been transformed ready for Christmas, with a 20ft tree in St George’s Hall decorated in 3,000 lights and hundreds of regal purple ribbons.

Sandringham House has been the private home of four generations of British monarchs for more than 160 years, and now belongs to the King.

The late Queen celebrated the eve of her Platinum Jubilee there just seven months before her death.