King Charles is set for an emotional UK reunion with his grandchildren Archie and Lilibet as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle prepare to stay in a high-security royal palace during their return to Britain next month. The visit comes six years after the Sussexes stepped down as senior royals and moved to California.
Security concerns addressed
Security fears have plagued Harry since his 24-hour police protection was withdrawn after Megxit in January 2020. However, the family could now be accommodated at Buckingham Palace itself, which an insider described as the safest building in Britain. The trip marks the first time in four years that Archie, seven, and Lilibet, five, will set foot on British soil.
King Charles delighted
King Charles is reported to be absolutely thrilled at the prospect of being reunited with his grandchildren. Sources claim there is now an agreement in place for His Majesty to spend time with the youngsters. The California-based couple have famously kept their children away from the UK due to ongoing rows over their safety.
Meghan has agreed to make her first trip across the pond since Queen Elizabeth's funeral in September 2022, provided they stay in a secure royal residence with armed guards. However, mystery still surrounds whether the Duchess will actually join Harry and the children when they meet the King.
Platinum Jubilee was last meeting
Charles has not seen Archie and Lilibet, who are sixth and seventh in line to the throne, since the late Queen's Platinum Jubilee in June 2022. The entire Sussex clan is scheduled to accompany Harry for events in Birmingham and London from July 6 to 10, ahead of next year's Invictus Games.
But anyone hoping for a full family truce will be disappointed, as Harry is not expected to meet with his estranged brother, Prince William. The siblings are believed to have suffered a total blackout in communication, not having spoken since their grandmother's funeral.
Potential residences
A selection of grand royal properties are being considered to house the Sussexes. Buckingham Palace is a top contender, currently empty due to a massive £369 million renovation but offering unparalleled protection. Insiders note it is guarded round-the-clock by the Household Division, active Army personnel, and armed Metropolitan Police officers. Harry has previously declined offers to stay there during solo UK visits.
Other secure options include St James's Palace in central London, Windsor Castle, or even their former home, Frogmore Cottage. Frogmore has sat vacant since the couple were evicted in 2022 but remains within Windsor Castle's strict security perimeter.
Olive branches extended
The upcoming visit follows tentative olive branches. In May 2025, Harry told the BBC about his hopes for a royal reconciliation. Later that year in September, he enjoyed a brief 45-minute meeting with Charles at Clarence House, reportedly bringing a framed photograph of his children. Harry also flew in alone to support his father after his cancer diagnosis two years ago.
The family last stayed together in the UK during the June 2022 Platinum Jubilee celebrations at Frogmore Cottage, a trip where Meghan faced a mixed reception of cheers and boos outside St Paul's Cathedral. The couple returned to Frogmore for the Queen's funeral three months later, leaving the children in the US.
Tensions peaked in early 2023 when Harry released his memoir Spare, criticizing his family and detailing his grievances. Days later, the couple received their eviction notice from Frogmore.
