Meghan Markle is set to bring Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet to the UK this week to join Prince Harry for private family events, according to reports. The Duchess of Sussex, 44, and her children will not participate in any public engagements during their stay, including the Invictus Games events that Harry is attending.
Private Family Time Away from Cameras
The family will focus on "private family events, away from the cameras," as reported by The Mirror. This visit could pave the way for an emotional reunion between King Charles and his grandchildren, whom he has not seen since 2022. The monarch has reportedly instructed senior aides to engage in talks with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to secure time in his busy diary, likely on Friday or Saturday. The Sussexes are expected to return to California on Sunday.
It is believed the family will stay with Harry's uncle, Earl Spencer, at Althorp House, the childhood home of Princess Diana and her burial site.
Harry's Engagements in Birmingham
Prince Harry arrived in the UK on Monday and has been carrying out duties, including a visit to Birmingham Children's Hospital on Thursday to celebrate 20 years of the WellChild charity's specialist nursing programme. During the visit, he was warmly received by nurses and families, sharing hugs and conversations. He discussed the financial challenges facing the NHS, stating, "I understand, and we understand, that it becomes harder every week with cuts and financial difficulties... just the insanity that seems to be circulating."
In a lighter moment, Harry revealed his son Archie's love of Lego, saying, "Do you know who's obsessed with Lego? My son Archie - and he's a master builder." He also made a rare reference to his estranged brother, Prince William, when discussing football with 12-year-old Alec Hill, noting that William supports Aston Villa.
King Charles and Queen Camilla at London Zoo
Meanwhile, King Charles and Queen Camilla visited London Zoo on Thursday to mark its bicentenary year. They participated in health checks on a Humboldt penguin and painted snail shells with UV orange 'snail polish' for tracking. Charles remarked, "I've done many things before. But I don't think I have ever done this!"
Prince William in Hastings
Prince William visited Hastings, where he expressed confidence in England's chances against Norway in the World Cup quarter-final. He played mini golf with local young people and met with staff and teenagers from the Hastings youth charity XTrax, promising to ensure their opinions are heard and respected.
