As the royal family’s public Christmas celebrations at Sandringham wrapped on December 25, 2025, Prince William and Princess Catherine retreated to their beloved Norfolk country home, Anmer Hall, for a cherished private week with their children – Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7. This quiet interlude between Christmas and New Year has become a treasured tradition for the Wales family, offering a rare bubble of normalcy amid their duties.

Anmer Hall, a Georgian manor on the Sandringham Estate gifted by Queen Elizabeth II, serves as the perfect sanctuary just miles from the main house. After the festive walkabout and church service – where Louis delighted crowds by snatching a giant Lindt chocolate – the family slipped away for low-key downtime. Sources describe the week as “magical,” filled with relaxed activities tailored to the children’s ages and energies.

Mornings often involve outdoor adventures on the expansive grounds: brisk walks, bike rides, or games in the fresh Norfolk air. The property’s gardens and nearby beaches provide endless exploration, with the kids collecting treasures or spotting wildlife. Indoors, the cozy home – decorated with personal touches like family photos and festive lights – hosts baking sessions, board games, and movie marathons. Favorites include classics that spark laughter and bonding, echoing William’s childhood memories.

Evenings bring simple traditions: hearty home-cooked meals, storytelling by the fire, or stargazing on clear nights. Catherine, fully in remission and radiating health, has prioritized creating joyful memories after a challenging 2025. William, balancing fatherhood with royal responsibilities, cherishes these unscripted moments – playing football with George or indulging Louis’ boundless energy.

This year held extra significance, marking a return to fuller traditions post-health scares. The children, growing confident in public yet protected privately, thrive in Anmer’s freedom – away from cameras and protocols. Occasional visits from Middleton relatives add warmth, blending royal and “normal” family life.

As New Year’s Eve approached, the Waleses rang in 2026 quietly, perhaps with fireworks visible from afar or a special toast. Their January 1 social media post – a montage captioned “Thank you for a brilliant 2025 and looking forward to 2026!!” – hinted at gratitude for this restorative time.

Anmer Hall remains the heart of their holidays, fostering the close-knit dynamic that grounds the future king and queen. In a year of milestones, this magical week reaffirmed family as their greatest strength – a private haven where laughter echoes loudest.