Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and their children Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet visited King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Highgrove House on Friday, 10 July 2026, according to palace sources. This marks the first time the Sussex children have met their great-grandfather, King Charles, at the royal residence in Gloucestershire.
Historic Family Reunion at Highgrove
The visit, which took place in the afternoon, was described as a private family gathering. A royal aide confirmed that the meeting was cordial and lasted several hours. The King and Queen hosted the Duke and Duchess of Sussex along with Archie, who turned seven in May, and Lilibet, who is five years old. The children were seen playing in the gardens of Highgrove House, a property long associated with King Charles's passion for organic farming and horticulture.
Background of the Visit
This reunion comes after years of strained relations between the Sussexes and the rest of the royal family. The couple stepped back from royal duties in 2020 and relocated to the United States. In a recent interview, Prince Harry expressed a desire to reconcile with his family. According to a palace insider, the visit was arranged through diplomatic channels over several months. The King and Queen were reportedly eager to spend time with their grandchildren, whom they had not seen in person for over two years.
The meeting included a tour of the estate's gardens, which are renowned for their sustainable design. Archie and Lilibet were given a special tour of the treehouse and the wildflower meadow, areas that King Charles personally designed. A source close to the family said, 'It was a joyful occasion. The children were delighted to explore the grounds, and the King was visibly moved to see them.'
Impact and Future Implications
This visit is seen as a significant step toward healing the rift within the royal family. Royal commentators have noted that the meeting could pave the way for more frequent visits and a potential reconciliation. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are expected to return to the UK for the Invictus Games in 2027, and this meeting may set a precedent for future engagements. The palace has not released official photographs, but sources confirm that the family spent time in the private drawing room, where they viewed family albums and discussed the children's upbringing.
The visit also highlights the evolving relationship between the Sussexes and the monarchy. With King Charles's health reportedly stable, the family is keen to maintain a united front. A royal expert said, 'This is a positive development. It shows that both sides are willing to put differences aside for the sake of family.'
