At Wood Farm, nestled within the Sandringham Estate, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip found solace from the grandeur of royal life. Here, they embraced a down-to-earth existence, engaging in everyday tasks like washing dishes and stacking the dishwasher together.
After retiring in 2017, Prince Philip made Wood Farm his home. It wasn’t just a residence; it was a retreat where simplicity reigned. The couple often lived there when Sandringham opened to the public, relishing the unpretentious atmosphere that surrounded them.
Emily Andrews, a royal expert, recalls how they thrived in that environment. “Often he and the Queen… would live at Wood Farm, doing their own washing up,” she shared. It was this very simplicity—far removed from the ceremonial duties at Windsor Castle or Balmoral—that they adored.
Wood Farm is described as “not very grand” but still quite spacious. Located just a couple of miles from the sea, it provided an idyllic setting for relaxation and creativity. Prince Philip even found time to paint there, capturing the beauty of Norfolk’s landscape.
The Queen had a soft spot for Sandringham House as well, often returning to this royal residence filled with family memories. She appreciated the unfussiness of Wood Farm—it allowed her to be herself without the weight of expectations that came with her title.
Interestingly, Wood Farm has rarely been photographed, adding to its allure as a private sanctuary for the couple. Dickie Arbiter, former press secretary to The Queen, fondly recalled moments spent there: “The Queen washed up and I dried, and no, she did not wear rubber gloves to protect her hands.” Such details reveal their genuine affection for each other and their shared domesticity.
As time goes on, reflections on their life together at Wood Farm highlight why this period mattered so much to them. It was more than just a house; it was a place where they could be free from royal obligations—where they could simply be husband and wife.
The legacy of their love for Wood Farm continues as it stands within the expansive grounds of the Sandringham Estate. Open to the public from March through October each year, it invites visitors to glimpse into the quieter side of royal life.
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