HOME FOR THE HOLIDAY

From family fun to sparkling style moments, the Royal Family's Sandringham gathering brings joy all around

- REPORT: SUZANNE WINTROB

It was truly the most wonderful time of the year for Britain’s Royal Family when they united in Sandringham to celebrate Christmas.

A highlight of the holiday season, the annual gathering got underway the moment King Charles arrived at St. Mary Magdalene Church for the morning service, accompanied by Queen Camilla and his growing clan. Bundled up outside to welcome them in the cool, crisp air were local residents - many of whom the amiable royals have known for years - plus hordes of fans who had made the trek to Norfolk for the much-anticipated meet and greet.

Though the family were only able to exchange nods and smiles en route to the church, the real fun began after the service, when they branched out and mingled easily with the appreciative crowd.

Looking happy and healthy, the King, 77, led the charge in a timeless double-breasted camel-brown overcoat with a Savile Row-inspired silhouette. By his side, Camilla, 78, stood out in a crimson Fiona Clare coat and matching Philip Treacy hat. In a nod to weather, her lapel bore the brilliant snowflake-like diamond-and-topaz Raspberry Pip Brooch – dating back to 1881 – that was inherited by the Queen Mother from her own mum, the Countess of Strathmore.

“Happy Christmas!” they enthused while leaning in to receive flowers and tokens of appreciation from their excited admirers.

For the King, the walkabout was something he has enjoyed doing ever since he was a young boy. His late mother adored spending Christmas at Sandringham, which her grandfather, King George V, had described as “the place I love better than anywhere else in the world.” He recorded the first-ever Christmas Day broadcast at the 20,000-acre estate in 1932 and, 20 years later, his granddaughter did the same in her first yuletide speech as monarch. The post-church walkabout was always a highlight and this year was no different, with everyone in great spirits as they spread holiday cheer.