At Wood Farm on the Sandringham Estate, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip enjoyed a remarkably down-to-earth lifestyle. They often engaged in household chores together, relishing the simplicity away from the grandeur of royal life.
After retiring in 2017, Prince Philip made Wood Farm his home, just a couple of miles from the sea. This royal residence became a refuge where both he and the Queen found comfort in each other’s company.
During their time at Wood Farm, they embraced domestic tasks. Emily Andrews, a royal correspondent, noted that “often he and the Queen would live at Wood Farm, doing their own washing up, maybe even stacking the dishwasher.” This routine highlighted their desire for normalcy amidst their royal duties.
The Queen’s fondness for Wood Farm stemmed from its unpretentious nature. Dickie Arbiter, a former press secretary, shared his experience: “The Queen washed up and I dried, and no, she did not wear rubber gloves to protect her hands.” Such moments reveal the warmth of their relationship.
Wood Farm is often described as “not very grand” but still quite spacious. The couple adored the simplicity it represented—a stark contrast to other royal homes like Windsor Castle or Balmoral.
They cherished their time there so much that even when Sandringham House opened to the public from March to October, they preferred staying at Wood Farm. It was their little sanctuary where they could escape the public eye.
Prince Philip also found creative inspiration at Wood Farm; he spent time painting there. This artistic endeavor allowed him to express himself in ways that royal obligations often overshadowed.
Despite its rarity in photographs, Wood Farm remains etched in the memories of those who knew the couple well. As Andrews remarked, “He wanted nothing more to do, really, with royal life after that,” indicating how much they valued their time away from it all.
Today, visitors can appreciate Sandringham House and its gardens when open to the public. However, it’s clear that for Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, Wood Farm will always hold a special place in their hearts—a testament to their love for each other and a simpler way of life.
