Former royal gardener's residence opens as luxury holiday rental
The former residence of the chief gardener at a prestigious royal estate has been transformed into an exclusive holiday rental - complete with a premium price point.
The seven-bedroom Gardener's Lodge previously served as home to the head horticulturist at the Sandringham Estate, King Charles III's cherished Norfolk retreat.
The property is now being marketed as a luxury holiday rental "nestled within Sandringham's private royal parklands", with rates beginning at £4,850 per week.
Royal commentator Sarah Mitchell from Crown & Country Magazine noted that the rental represents how royal estates are "increasingly diversifying their income sources" and would particularly attract "affluent British holidaymakers seeking authentic royal experiences".
The Gardener's Lodge joins The Pavilion, another estate property, in offering public access to exclusive accommodation within the royal grounds.
The Sandringham Estate spans roughly 20,000 acres (8,100 hectares) including 600 acres (242 hectares) of meticulously maintained gardens.
The estate welcomes thousands of visitors annually, with both the main house and gardens accessible to the public during designated periods.
The grounds feature an active timber mill and sustainable farm operation, alongside numerous historic buildings and residences.
The Gardener's Lodge accommodates up to ten guests across multiple bathrooms and welcomes pets.
The property description highlights it as "formerly the residence of the Estate's master gardener, this distinguished Victorian dwelling now provides visitors with an exclusive opportunity to experience the elegance and tranquil pace of life within one of Britain's most prestigious country estates".
Mitchell explained that while royal estates have historically offered commercial opportunities, their marketing approach has evolved significantly.
"The presentation of these properties has become much more direct and commercial in recent years, likely reflecting the current ownership structure," she observed.
"Particularly with properties like The Pavilion, there's clear recognition that these privately held royal estates are actively working to diversify their revenue streams."
Sandringham follows the precedent set by other royal residences, with Balmoral Castle in Scotland offering nine cottages and hunting lodges for public rental.
The Balmoral website notes that "certain properties may be unavailable during specific periods when the Royal Family is in residence".
