Channel 5's latest offering delves into the opulent world of Sandringham House, the Norfolk residence of the Royal family. Narrated by the ever-suave Nigel Havers, the documentary, titled "Sandringham: A Royal Residence with Nigel Havers", takes viewers on a journey through the history of this "pricey pile", revealing hidden gems and intriguing anecdotes.
Havers, with his characteristically charming delivery, introduces Sandringham as a "mega-mansion" boasting a "whopping" 274 rooms. The programme delves into the estate's early history, shedding light on lesser-known facts. We learn that King Edward VII, then Prince Bertie, installed a bowling alley and converted the ballroom into a cinema, complete with a visiting orchestra, as films were silent in his time.
The estate operated on its own unique time zone, known as "Sandringham Time", where all clocks were set half an hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time. This allowed Bertie an extra 30 minutes of daylight to indulge his passion for country pursuits.
Queen Victoria's gift of Sandringham to her eldest son was a shrewd move. It aimed to distance him from London's temptations, specifically his affair with "an actress of easy virtue", Nellie Clifton. The hefty purchase price, equivalent to £23 million in today's money, reflects the estate's lavishness.
Although the documentary focuses on Sandringham's historical significance, it also touches upon the modern Royal family. The Prince and Princess of Wales are known to reside on the estate, but their lives receive a fleeting mention. The programme promises a deeper dive into the 21st-century royals in later episodes, leaving viewers intrigued.
Havers's captivating narration is interspersed with engaging segments featuring historians and presenter JJ Chalmers. They recreate a drive in Bertie's open-topped Daimler, explore a miniature gas holder, and even delve into the Prince's medical history. A make-up artist demonstrates what Chalmers would have looked like with typhoid, revealing the severity of the illness.
However, some segments fall short, particularly the discussion on typhoid, where the term "pea soup diarrhoea" is mentioned. While historically accurate, this detail feels unnecessary and somewhat distasteful. Havers, ever the professional, thankfully avoids this discussion, leaving the discomfort to the viewers.
Despite the occasional awkward moment, "Sandringham: A Royal Residence" offers a compelling glimpse into the history of this grand estate. It's a well-structured programme with insightful information, entertaining anecdotes, and the added charm of Nigel Havers's presence. However, with a touch more focus on the modern royals and less emphasis on the less appealing medical details, the documentary could have been even more compelling.
