King Charles gives kids magical gift as royal family prepares for Christmas

King Charles III says 'bring your families' as he opens a brand new 'kingdom to explore'

October 27, 2025
The royal family will gather for the Christmas service and dinner at Sandringham
The royal family will gather for the Christmas service and dinner at Sandringham 

King Charles tapped into his grandpa instincts to create a special memory for kids this holiday season.

The 76-year-old monarch recently unveiled a whimsical new adventure playground at Sandringham Estate, just in time for the festivities to begin. Named the “Sandringham Royal Parkland Play Area,” the space features wooden castles, bridges, and climbing towers inspired by the estate’s historic landmarks.

“Your own kingdom to explore,” read a statement by the estate. “Bring the family this weekend for a fun day out and play in The Children’s Play Area.”

The timing couldn’t be more fitting as the royal family prepares to gather at Sandringham for their traditional Christmas celebrations. Sitting on 20,000 acres of Royal Parkland,” the Sandringham estate has been home to the British royals since 1862, and has become the designated location for the family to come together on Christmas and exchange gifts.

Gift giving itself has been a very important yet “lighthearted affair” for the royals. Alexandra Messervy, former employee of the Royal Household, revealed, “There’s always the idea to give something useful or fun. They certainly would never have extravagant gifts.”

King Charles’ immediate and extended family will come together for the grand annual Christmas dinner at the Norfolk estate. This will include his son Prince William and his wife Princess Kate, along with their kids — Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. Queen Camilla’s family will also be present.

However, Charles’ other son Prince Harry has not brought his family to the annual dinner ever since he stepped down from royal duties in 2020 and moved to the US with Meghan Markle and their kids, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. The Sussexes recently shared a glimpse of their own festivities from California as they went pumpkin picking and carving.