King Charles's beloved Sandringham Estate has been forced to close its doors to visitors today due to an "emergency plumbing issue". The royal estate in Norfolk is closed to the public because the toilets are not working due to a burst water main.

The closure affects the house, gardens, restaurant and courtyard facilities. The Royal Parkland is open, but there will be no toilet facilities.

The Royal Estate Sandringham said in a statement on Thursday: "The Estate is currently closed all day to visitors due to an emergency plumbing issue. This includes The House, The Gardens, Sandringham Restaurant and Courtyard Facilities. We apologise for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. The Royal Parkland is still available to visit but there will be no toilet facilities open."

Anglian Water said customers in Sandringham had "either very low water pressure or no water" this morning following a burst water main.

They said: "We're really sorry but some customers in Sandringham and surrounding areas may have either very low water pressure or no water at all. This is being caused by a burst water main in your area."

Sandringham Estate is the King's private country retreat and boasts an impressive mansion and 60-acre gardens.

Charles and Camilla often spend weekends at the Norfolk residence, though it is best known for hosting the Royal Family at Christmas every year.

Dozens of members head to Norfolk ahead of the festivities, and well-wishers gather on the estate on Christmas morning to catch a glimpse of the royals as they walk to St Mary Magdalene Church for a morning service.

The plumbing issue on the estate comes after no-fly restrictions were put in place over Sandringham in March after unannounced drones were spotted flying above the property.