Wolferton Royal Station, which opened in 1862 and served as a key stop for royal trains traveling between London and the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, has undergone a significant renovation. The Grade II* listed property, now named Downside, offers a unique living experience in a venue once frequented by British monarchs and European royalty.
Monarchs from Queen Victoria to Queen Elizabeth II utilized the station. Its Royal Suite, in particular, was known for hosting luncheon parties during shooting gatherings attended by society's elite. The station closed in 1969, and after falling into disrepair, a substantial portion was purchased in 2001 by businessman Richard Brown, who initiated a comprehensive refurbishment that garnered a National Railway Heritage Award in 2022 for restoration on a closed line.
The residence now features a central breakfast kitchen and three reception rooms: a drawing room, dining room, and study. The former Royal Suite has been converted into a bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, and two additional bedrooms, one with an en-suite, are located in the area that was once the 'Public Waiting Room.' An annex, housed in a converted signal box, can serve as guest accommodation or a studio space.
Original features have been carefully preserved, including the Royal Suite's 12ft 3in high ceilings adorned with intricate Tudoresque latticework and walls finished with heavy English oak Wainscott panelling. Noteworthy decorative elements include carved bosses depicting Tudor roses and Prince of Wales feathers, as well as gold-plated door furniture and marble floors.
Modern amenities such as air conditioning and a heat exchanger have been integrated, alongside a double garage. The property is set within a 0.55-acre plot in the hamlet of Wolferton, featuring a lawn, bordered gardens, and a formal 'Queens Garden' with a wrought iron gateway.
The railway line serving Wolferton opened in 1962, with Queen Victoria having acquired the nearby estate that became Sandringham in the same year. Royal trains continued to use the station until 1966, transporting parties from London and, at times, coal for the estate. The station also bore witness to three royal funeral processions, including those of King George V and King George VI.
The station saw its last passengers in 1969 before the King's Lynn to Hunstanton line was closed and the property was sold by British Rail. Tim Landles, partner at Landles estate agents, marketing the property, noted the previous owner's dedication, stating, 'The previous owner spent considerable time and expense on improving and upgrading - under probably something of a labour of love, being a passionate railway enthusiast.'