In the second episode of Sandringham: A Royal Residence with Nigel Havers, airing on Channel 5 on Saturday, 3 August 2024, at 9:00 pm, the focus shifts to the reign of Edward VII and the unexpected turn of events that followed his death.
Nigel Havers reveals that, contrary to expectations, Sandringham did not pass to the new king, George V, but instead to Edward VII’s wife, Alexandra. This led to a unique situation where the king and his large family resided in a small cottage on the grounds while the ageing Alexandra occupied the grand 364-room house with their unmarried daughter for company.
Their quiet life was managed by an extensive team of 50 servants, whose daily routines are explored by JJ Chalmers. Meanwhile, Raksha discovers the charms of York Cottage, where the king started his days by checking the weather, often with a parrot on his arm.
The peaceful life at Sandringham was disrupted by World War I, and JJ uncovers how the house faced the threat of destruction during this turbulent period. Nigel Havers also sheds light on a little-known aspect of the estate: the secret house where royalty seeks solitude.
The episode also looks at the impact of new royal residents, who brought about long-awaited modernisations to drag Sandringham into the 20th century. Additionally, the abdication crisis is explored, highlighting the uncertainty it caused for the future of the estate.
It was only in late 1936 that George VI secured Sandringham’s future, transforming it into a beloved country home for his family, including the young Princess Elizabeth II. However, tragedy soon struck, marking the beginning of a new era in the royal history of Sandringham.
Sandringham: A Royal Residence with Nigel Havers, Episode 2, airs Saturday, 3 August 2024, at 9:00 pm on Channel 5.
