King Charles’ Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, once a cherished retreat for the late Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, and now a beloved countryside getaway for the King and Queen Camilla, hasn’t left all guests feeling royally impressed.
Despite its historic charm and picturesque setting, the estate has faced criticism from visitors who say the experience falls short, particularly in terms of pricing and service.
Open to the public through October, entrance to the house and its expansive 60-acre gardens costs £25 for adults, or £15 for garden-only access. Children and carers can enter free of charge.
However, complaints have been stacking up, with many guests voicing concerns about expensive food, underwhelming service, overpriced parking, and the sale of what they called “cheap souvenirs” in the estate’s gift shop.
Earlier this year, a guest shared a photo of her breakfast on social media, calling it “average” and “not amazing.”
Meanwhile, one couple praised the historic house, gardens, and church but labeled the entry fees “outrageously expensive,” also noting long waits to be seated at the on-site restaurant.
Another pair, who visited for the first time last month, said they wouldn’t be returning anytime soon.
They criticized the cost of parking and described the overall value as disappointing.
“The restaurant looks beautiful, but that’s where the praise ends,” they said. “The food was fine, but the portions were tiny and the prices ridiculous. Breakfast cost £14 and came with just one sausage, one egg, a single piece of bacon, toast, and a tiny serving of beans and mushrooms.”
A family who recently toured the estate echoed similar concerns. They found the café expensive, the staff unfriendly, and the gift shop filled with low-quality souvenirs. “It’s nowhere near the standard it was under the late Queen,” they remarked. Another family said the breakfast presentation looked elegant, thanks to fancy china, but the food itself arrived only lukewarm, far from what they expected for the price.
When approached for comment on the complaints, Buckingham Palace declined to respond.
