‘Tis the season once more, and the British royal family is preparing for their annual Christmas festivities at Sandringham House. While many may imagine extravagant, lavish feasts for the royals, it’s quite surprising to discover that their holiday meals are actually quite traditional and consistent year after year.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla will be hosting the Christmas celebrations at the late Queen Elizabeth II’s former estate in Norfolk. Last year marked the royal couple’s first time leading the holiday traditions, and this year, they continue the practice with deep respect for the long-standing customs of the royal family.
Former royal family chef Darren McGrady has offered a peek into the holiday meals of the British monarchs. McGrady revealed that the day’s culinary escapade at Sandringham House typically begins with separate breakfasts for the men and women. The men feast on eggs, mushrooms, kipper, grilled kidneys, and bacon, while the women opt for a lighter fare of sliced fruit, half a grapefruit, toast, and coffee.
When it’s time for lunch, a traditional feast awaits the royal family. Roast turkey, stuffing, potatoes, cranberry, bread sauces, and Christmas pudding make up the spread, reminiscent of a classic Thanksgiving dinner. According to McGrady, the royal family’s holiday meals tend to be quite traditional, with a focus on turkey over other holiday staples. Children partake in their own separate meals in the nursery with their nannies, following a Victorian approach to dining etiquette—no high chairs at the table, just old-fashioned dining routines.
After the midday meal and a leisurely stroll around the Sandringham estate, the royal family indulges in afternoon tea with an array of sweet and savory treats, including sandwiches, chocolate yule logs, mince pies, and scones. McGrady also mentioned the presence of two Christmas cakes—one for the adults and a fruit-flavoured one for the children—adding an extra touch of festive cheer to the holiday celebration.
As the day draws to a close, a grand dinner is served, fit for the royal family. McGrady described a buffet-style feast with opulent offerings such as foie gras en croute from Harrods, a whole Stilton cheese with port, and a decorated York ham. It’s a lavish spread that truly captures the spirit of the holiday season.
In line with his commitment to organic foods and ethical farming practices, King Charles III is dedicated to serving food that is not only delicious but also up to his standards. His advocacy for sustainable farming has long been known, as he once expressed the importance of a farming system that works with nature, not against her.
So, as we all indulge in our own holiday feasts, it’s heartening to know that even the royal family partakes in classic, traditional Christmas meals year after year.
