Prince Harry is set to make a return to the UK this September, and there are reports indicating that his father, King Charles, will extend an invitation for him to stay at Buckingham Palace during his visit. This development comes on the heels of a recent family reunion that included Prince Harry’s wife, Meghan Markle, and their children, Archie and Lilibet.
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The Duke of Sussex, 41, has not stayed at a royal residence during his last trip to Britain in July, which featured a rather public dispute over accommodation offers. Buckingham Palace and Harry’s representatives provided conflicting narratives regarding the arrangement for the visit. Although King Charles had initially offered for Harry and his family to stay at a royal residence, the invitation was declined at first. When Harry later signalled his willingness to accept, palace officials maintained that the timeline for such an arrangement had elapsed, leading to an unwelcome public row over a matter that should have remained private.
Harry’s relationship with the royal institution has been tumultuous, and this latest incident highlighted the complexities involved as he navigates family dynamics within the royal framework. According to a source speaking to PEOPLE, the behind-the-scenes atmosphere surrounding his July visit was said to be “quite stressful.” Russell Myers, an author specialising in royal affairs, remarked that what was anticipated as a joyous homecoming turned into a challenging experience.
The recent encounter at Highgrove House, where King Charles met with Prince Harry and his family, marked a notable milestone. This was the first time the King had seen his grandchildren since 2022, creating an emotional depth to the meeting. It signified an attempt to bridge the gap that has developed over years, particularly since Harry and Meghan distanced themselves from royal duties and relocated to California in 2020.
Prior to this, Prince Harry and Meghan were residents at Nottingham Cottage within the grounds of Kensington Palace, later moving to Frogmore Cottage in Windsor. Their departure from royal duties necessitated them vacating Frogmore, which has since added layers to the complications surrounding their visits to the UK. For part of their previous visit, they spent time at Althorp, the historic estate owned by Harry’s uncle, Charles Spencer, where they were able to introduce their children to the legacies of their late grandmother, Diana.
Meghan shared moments from their stay on social media, posting photographs of her children enjoying their time at the estate. This was a significant experience, marking an opportunity for Archie and Lilibet to connect with the family history that they have been somewhat distanced from since their parents stepped back from their royal roles.
Prince Harry has returned to the UK multiple times over the years, yet security concerns have often prevented Meghan and the children from accompanying him. Harry has previously expressed disappointment regarding the loss of police protection following their royal exit, addressing this during a BBC interview in the past year. He poignantly remarked on the deep sadness he feels that he is unable to showcase his homeland to his children.
As of late June, a review concerning Harry’s security arrangements by the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (RAVEC) was ongoing, and it remains to be seen how this may influence the level of protection Harry receives during future visits. Reports indicate that RAVEC is obligated to conduct an annual review, but Harry has not had an update since a review nearly seven years ago.
Looking ahead, Prince Harry is also slated to return to the UK for the Invictus Games in 2027, which will take place in Birmingham. This upcoming visit may further indicate a shift in his relationship with the royal family, particularly if the offer for accommodation at Buckingham Palace is accepted. As the family navigates these complexities, it appears there may be opportunities for reconciliation and connection as they move forward.