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Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
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Zoe Forsey & Kirsten McStay & Abbie Meehan

Queen returns to Duke of Edinburgh's cottage for first time since his death

The Queen has made her emotional return to Prince Philip's private cottage in Norfolk for the first time since his death, to mark the anniversary of her father's passing, King George VI.

As reported by the Daily Record, photos have emerged of Her Majesty making the visit from her home in Windsor Castle to Sandringham earlier today.

She was driven for a portion of the journey, before arriving by helicopter.

Despite being together for much of their lives, the royal couple lived apart for the final years of Philip's life, as he stayed in Wood Farm and the Queen resided at Buckingham Palace.

The Queen visited regularly, however, when she wasn't otherwise engaged.

There was a small team based at Wood Farm, who didn't wear uniforms as the Duke of Edinburgh did not enjoy the formality.

The Queen (Getty Images)

The five-bedroom cottage is hidden away in a quiet part of the estate overlooking the sea, and is where the couple were able to live a 'normal' life.

The Queen is believed to have cooked and done the washing up during her stays there.

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Before Prince Philip moved in permanently, Wood Farm was regularly used by other members of the royal family, as Kate Middleton stayed there during visits to the estate, before her marriage to Prince William.

The cottage is also where Sarah Ferguson was made to stay after her divorce from Prince Andrew.

She wasn't allowed to attend the Christmas celebrations in the 'Big House', but wanted to be nearby to see her daughters, Princess Beatrice and Eugenie.

Prince Philip lived alone with assistance from staff at Wood Farm on Sandringham estate after transforming it into a private retreat.

He was said to enjoy his time there, tucked away from the other royals, reading, painting watercolours and having friends to stay.

A source said: "Everything is being put in order for the Queen's visit,' one said. 'We've been told that she will stay at Wood Farm, rather than the main house, which is nice as that always had a special place in his heart."

The Queen normally marks the tragic anniversary of her father's death at Sandringham, remaining there after the royal family's Christmas break.

Due to Covid, however, the Queen did not make the journey in 2021.

February 6 2022 will mark 70 year since the King passed away, aged just 56.

It will be the first time the Queen marks the anniversary without Philip by her side.

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