Meghan Markle has been seen in London for the first time since her return to the UK over a month ago. On Wednesday, the Duchess of Sussex was spotted dining in the luxury Mayfair hotel Claridge's, as she was joined by Malala Yousafzai.
The two were spotted in the background of a video captured by a group of friends who were sharing a bottle of champagne at the hotel, as they captioned the clip: “POV: Claridge's decided to seat Meghan Markle and Malala in front of you.” The two women sat in a corner booth and appeared deep in conversation as they seemed oblivious to the video being taken.
It is the first time Meghan has been spotted in London since she returned to the UK with Prince Harry and their children Archie and Lilibet in late August. The Mirror has contacted Meghan’s spokesperson for comment.
Friends since 2020
Meghan and Malala have been friends since 2020, after the two women, along with the Duke of Sussex, joined a virtual conversation marking International Day of the Girl, discussing the importance of girls’ education.
“Meghan and I are on the same page: we both believe that when girls have access to education, everyone wins,” Malala - a Pakistani advocate and Nobel Peace Prize winner - shared following their 2020 conversation. Since their first virtual meeting, it is believed the two women stayed in contact and have formed a strong friendship.
Recent public outings
Meghan’s London outing comes just days after the Duke and Duchess were spotted in public for the first time together since their return to Britain, as they enjoyed an afternoon at the pub.
Harry and Meghan walked hand-in-hand on Friday last week as they made their way to the historic 16th-century pub The Falkland Arms, in the Oxfordshire village of Great Tew. They enjoyed some time to themselves as they stopped for a meal while their children, Prince Archie, seven, and Princess Lilibet, five, were at school. Meghan enjoyed a gluten-free beer-battered haddock and chips while Harry opted for chicken, ham and leek pie as they spent some valuable time together.
As Ever Christmas collection launch
Just hours before Meghan was seen in the affluent London area on Wednesday, her As Ever lifestyle brand launched their Christmas collection, featuring three luxury hampers and a selection of limited edition items.
On offer are the Pantry Basket costing £195, a Parlour Basket for £182, and a Hostess Basket for £159 to her limited edition products, with each basket featuring a different amount of As Ever staples. In the cheapest of the offerings for £159, the Hostess Basket includes a trio of As Ever fruit spreads, three tins of different herbal teas, two scented candles and a jar of flower sprinkles.
The Parlour Basket contains a signature set of two packs playing cards, two spice kits for making hot toddies and mulled cider, a scented candle, and a trio of chocolate bars in collaboration with luxury Los Angeles chocolatier Compartes. The three flavours of chocolate bars are inspired by Meghan’s As Ever tea offerings, including hibiscus and rose, lavender and honey, and ginger and lemon. Those looking to indulge in just the chocolate bars can buy the trio separately from the hamper for £31.
The most expensive hamper, the Pantry Basket costing £195, includes a trio of fruit spreads, a duo of honey, three tins of herbal tea, two spice kits for making festive drinks, and a jar of flower sprinkles.
