FIT FOR A KING

A cottage that was once owned by royalty has been transformed into a relaxed and cosy retreat by owners Jolene and Jason Marshall

- JANES CMEEKIN

Sandringham is the much-loved rural retreat of the Royal Family, but the estate and its surroundings also have properties to own and rent for anyone wanting to enjoy this idyllic slice of the Norfolk countryside. So after missing out on a chance to buy a cottage that had once been part of the Sandringham Estate, Jolene and. Jason Marshall were delighted when, out of the blue, another opportunity to own the property presented itself.

In March 2020 the couple decided to relocate from London to North Norfolk, as they were keen to bring up their three children in a rural environment close to the coast. It's such a beautiful part of the world and offers so m scope,' Jolene says. Every time we came to this area on holiday, we'd end up talking about moving here one day.

As time wore on, we decided to take the plunge.' As well as buying a family home in Norfolk, the couple also hoped to buy a cottage nearby to let out as a holiday rental. Unfortunately at that stage, we were pipped to the post,' Jolene reveals. However, three months later, the quaint cottage in the village of Great Bircham, a few miles from Sandringham, came back onto the market, and the pair was determined that history wouldn't repeat itself. 'Within 15 minutes of walking through the door, we'd put in another offer, Jolene recalls. Thankfully, it was immediately accepted and, this time, everything went through very smoothly.'