Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip travelled to Sandringham by helicopter on Thursday (22.12.16).

Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip

Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip

The royal couple delayed departure for their Christmas holiday at Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, England because they were both suffering from heavy colds but were well enough to travel on Thursday.

However, while the Queen usually travels by train, they decided to make the journey shorter and take a helicopter.

A palace spokesperson said: "I can confirm that The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh have left Buckingham Palace and are traveling to Sandringham."

The royals will be joined by members of their family, including Prince Harry, at their festive gathering in Norfolk.

However, his brother Prince William won't be around this year as he and his wife Duchess Catherine have decided to take their children Prince George, three, and 19-month-old Princess Charlotte to her parents' home in Berkshire.

Parenting expert Lisa Clegg believes the decision is based on a desire for the children to have an informal holiday season.

She told MailOnline: "The decision has been made out of a desire to put Charlotte and George first.

"If William and Kate can take a step back from Official Royal duties at certain times, in order to keep life as simple and normal as possible for George and Charlotte then that's absolutely the right decision.

"The children are still very young and so won't understand the restraints within certain obligations of the Royal family and to sit down and be quiet in particular situations.

"They are only little and need to be able to be children and get carried away with the excitement and fun of Christmas, without the world looking on them.

"For this reasons, it's beneficial for them to be in a more relaxed environment."

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