Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have returned to the UK for an "extended period" and are reportedly residing in the Cotswolds, but their arrival has already sparked backlash from both celebrity neighbours and locals.
The couple landed in Britain on Wednesday, August 26, to begin their extended stay. While the exact location of their UK home has not been publicly confirmed, the Cotswolds has repeatedly been linked to them. The area is known for its picturesque villages, beautiful countryside, and peaceful surroundings, and is home to celebrities including Jeremy Clarkson, Ellen DeGeneres, and Kate Moss.
Designer's warning to Meghan
Interior designer Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, who has lived in the Cotswolds for nearly two decades, has already commented on the possibility of Harry and Meghan becoming his neighbours. In a swipe at Meghan, he said: "It is going to be interesting to see how the Duchess fits in because, unlike the other side of the Cotswolds, we're much less impressed by celebrity, which is why actually a lot of celebrities who are kind of like very good at being themselves are drawn to our side."
"I think she's going to need to be very genuine," he added. "I think that's the big moment here, is that the Cotswold folk can really sniff b******t, you know, they can really sniff when people aren't being who they are."
Local residents voice opposition
Some locals have also made their feelings clear. Pensioner Zana Aires described Harry and Meghan as a "disgrace" and claimed they "should be banned" from living in the region. She branded Meghan a "dreadful" woman and expressed fears the couple will "stir up" royal drama simply by being back in Britain.
Not everyone shares this view, but the reaction within days of their arrival has raised questions about the couple's decision to return to the UK. They left the country in 2020 after stepping down as senior working royals and have since built a new life in California.
Questions over the return
The reasons for the return remain unclear. No one has offered an explanation for why Harry would want to come back now, given his strained relationship with Prince William and his repeated complaints about feeling unsafe in Britain. While it is understandable that Harry would want Archie and Lilibet to have a connection to the country where he was born, the decision has inevitably raised eyebrows.
Ultimately, Harry and Meghan needed somewhere to stay during their visit. But if they genuinely want privacy and a quieter existence, becoming two of the most recognisable residents in one of Britain's biggest celebrity hotspots may not be the best way to achieve it.
