Princess Charlotte to be christened on the 5th of July at Sandringham in 'private' ceremony

Princess Charlotte will be christened in the Queen’s parish church in Norfolk on Sunday July 5, Kensington Palace have announced.

St Mary Magdalene is just a few minutes’ walk from the Sandringham estate and is where the Royal Family take part in the traditional Christmas Day service each year.

Despite the low-key venue, the little princess – who will be two months old at the time- will be christened by The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Reverend Justin Welby.

The service itself will be private, according to Kensington Palace, but some members of the public will be permitted to gather outside.

William and Kate's choice of venue was influenced by its proximity to Anmer Hall but is also a touching tribute to Diana, Princess of Wales who was herself baptised there.

Although announced just a few hours ago, speculation on the names of Charlotte's godparents has already begun with Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie installed as front runners.

Other names backed by punters, according to bookies Ladbrokes, include William's cousin Peter Phillips, his close friend Hugh van Cutsem, brother Prince Harry and Kate's sister Pippa Middleton.