When it comes to gardening, King Charles has long been one of Britain’s most passionate and knowledgeable green-fingered advocates – and his projects at Sandringham reflects that. As patron of the Royal Horticultural Society and a lifelong champion of traditional English floriculture, the King, 76, has spent recent years quietly transforming the gardens across his royal residences, with Sandringham being a standout example of his vision.
A new feature in this month’s Country Life magazine offers a rare glimpse into the evolving landscape of Sandringham House, particularly the striking Topiary Garden, created in 2023. Alongside more than 5,000 perennial plants, the piece highlights the King’s use of David Austin roses; a fitting choice given the brand’s past collaborations with His Majesty and its celebrated reputation for heritage blooms.
Two varieties in particular were selected for their shape, beauty and strong scent: Rosa ‘Tottering-by-Gently’ and Rosa ‘Gabriel Oak’. Both are English Musk Hybrid creations from the esteemed breeder, adored by gardeners for their generous flowering habit and romantic form.
And the best news for gardening enthusiasts? These exact roses planted at Sandringham are available to buy now, making them a thoughtful, meaningful gift for anyone who loves the royal gardens or simply wants to bring a touch of regal charm to their own outdoor space.
The roses are sold ready-pruned for winter, meaning they can be planted immediately or gifted straight away, looking neat and prepared for the season.
Tottering-by-Gently offers masses of soft yellow single blooms that attract bees and later form attractive rosehips, while Gabriel Oak delivers sumptuous, deep pink, free-flowering blossoms against dark, dramatic foliage.
Whether you’re shopping for a gardener, a royal fan, or simply someone who appreciates a beautifully scented bloom, these David Austin roses offer a rare chance to bring home a piece of Sandringham’s newly reimagined gardens that have been crafted under the King’s own horticultural eye.
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