Royal Patronage
The church has a rich history of Royal patronage. Our current Patron is King Charles III. Walpole St. Peter is within easy reach of Sandringham, and many generations of past and current Royal Families have been attracted by the church's many charms.
While he was Prince of Wales the future Edward VII contributed to the replacement of church windows and his successor, who was to become George V, planted an oak tree in 1909 in the churchyard on the the south side of the church, which has grown large. It stands next to the huge beech tree. The second set of windows on the north wall (counting from the east side of the western screen) were restored during the 1930s.
Much of the restoration fund resulted from the proceeds of the sale of gifts sent to the rector by Queen Mary (wife of George V), Queen Maud of Norway, The Princess Royal (Mary) and the Duke of York (Albert, later King George VI). Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother visited the church many times. Her signature can be seen, along with those of members of her party in pages from the visitors book which are now in frames on the walls and columns next to the vestry.
Over the years King Charles III has paid several visits to the church and we are most grateful that he continues to demonstrate his interest in the future of this beautiful church and its well being for generations to come. HRH has been the most frequent Royal visitor, having visited privately many times. This is one of his very favourite churches. In the year 2000 he planted an oak tree, opposite the bell tower on the south side of the church, to mark the Millenium.