The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have described Norfolk as a special place for them in a BBC documentary.

The documentary, which aired last night, explored the life of Prince Phillip through intimate interviews with members of the royal family.

In 2017, the Duke of Edinburgh retired from public duties and spent much of his time at the Sandringham estate, where he has undertaken the management of the estate since 1952.

He was a familiar figure in West Norfolk, and he regularly attended official engagements and receptions for fundraising events in King's Lynn and West Norfolk.

Prince William said: "Sandringham has always been a really important part of his life. I think for him being up here was an escape. I think he's a very practical-minded man and he likes the fact that he's been able to have an impact here.

"He's not the Queen, he's not the King, so for him, how could he make his life meaningful? He felt he could make an impact on Sandringham and other places like this.

"He’s planted over 45km of hedgeland, 45 woods, over two million trees planted, These things really matter to the surrounding area.

North Norfolk News: The Duke of Edinburgh greets the crowds on arrival at the Guildhall of St. George, King's Lynn. Dated 23 October 1959The Duke of Edinburgh greets the crowds on arrival at the Guildhall of St. George, King's Lynn. Dated 23 October 1959 (Image: Archant)

"He’s been heavily involved, in shaping and deciding the future of the environment here. It’s really mattered to me that I’ve learnt from and been able to witness his impact on Sandringham.

"And for me, coming here, and now living here, everything he’s done has led up to Catherine and I feeling like this is a part of the country we’d want to be in.

"We love this area, it feels like home. And that’s because of what he’s created."

North Norfolk News: Anmer Hall, which the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were given by the QueenAnmer Hall, which the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were given by the Queen (Image: Archant © 2013)

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have spent the past 18-months at their Norfolk home at Anmer Hall in the Sandringham estate.

They chose to ride out much of the Covid pandemic here with their three young children, and they have previously spoken of their fondness for the grounds and gardens.

They were given the property in 2013 after their marriage, and they have lived there for long periods since.