King Charles has given a rare glimpse inside his beloved Highgrove estate whilst getting into the festive spirit ahead of Christmas.
The monarch, 76, hosted his annual ‘Crafts at Christmas’ celebration on Friday at the Gloucestershire residence, where he personally helped decorate a Christmas tree in the estate’s Orchard Room.
The event showcased work from tutors and students of The King’s Foundation, featuring displays of painting, millinery and embroidery.
During the festive afternoon, King Charles made a sad admission on “timeless skills” and emphasised his commitment to preserving traditional crafts.
King Charles has given a rare glimpse inside his beloved Highgrove estate whilst getting into the festive spirit ahead of Christmas
Getty
The King said: “It’s really trying to maintain the timeless skills, which are always needed really, whatever age we’re in. They are all rather disappearing, the battle is trying to keep all the special ones.”
Highgrove holds special significance for the King, serving as his personal sanctuary away from royal duties.
“In good times and bad, as both the Prince of Wales and now as King, he likes to retreat to his ‘sanctuary’, his tiny chapel in the grounds of Highgrove, to gather his thoughts,” royal biographer Robert Hardman told HELLO!
The Georgian residence sits within 900 acres of organic land, featuring nine bedrooms and six bathrooms.
King Charles has owned the estate since 1980
Getty
Charles has owned the estate since 1980 when he first lived there with Princess Diana and their young sons, Princes William and Harry.
The property includes a farm, which Charles installed during renovations to ensure sustainable, locally sourced produce.
The mansion is particularly renowned for its stunning gardens, which the King personally worked to create during his time as Prince of Wales.
These magnificent gardens are opened annually to the public, allowing visitors to experience the enchanting grounds.
Charles once told Robert Hardman in 2008: “The great thing is that it is somewhere where nobody can get me. Anywhere in the house, there is always a telephone, or somebody can always come. It is very important to have somewhere just to allow a moment.”
King Charles was provided entertainment by the local Rock Choir performing in festive Santa hats
Getty
Student Emily Rose Saunders told the BBC it was “really exciting” to see the King express his passion for crafts.
His Majesty explored various stalls, chatting with artists and craftspeople, and even sampled roasted chestnuts.
The local Rock Choir provided entertainment, performing in festive Santa hats.
The event allowed the King to meet with students and alumni of The King’s Foundation, which helps approximately 15,000 students annually build practical skills.
“We wouldn’t be here without His Majesty,” Saunders added, thanking both the King and Chanel for their support of traditional craftsmanship.
