Prince Harry's Personal Sanctuary: A Glimpse Inside the Royal 'Man Cave'
Many fathers in their forties create a personal retreat within their homes, often dubbed a 'man cave', and it appears royalty is no exception. Prince Harry recently offered the public a rare look into his customised office nook, thanks to a video shared by his wife, Meghan Markle, on Instagram. The clip, posted just before Valentine's Day, showed Meghan presenting Harry with one of her As Ever chocolate bars, while inadvertently showcasing the Duke of Sussex's meticulously decorated personal space.
A Detailed Look at Harry's Personal Decor
In the video, a beaming Prince Harry is seen seated at a dark brown wooden desk, with a laptop perched on a stack of books. The background reveals a carefully curated collection of items that reflect his personality, interests, and family life. Behind him, a framed image of two pandas hangs prominently, alongside a model helicopter and a partially concealed poster bearing the word 'Papa'. The space also features large, ornate candles, various pieces of artwork, and a diffuser, with military badges displayed under glass taking a place of honour. At Harry's feet, the couple's rescue beagle, Mia, lounges contentedly on a dog bed, adding a touch of homely comfort to the scene.
Symbolic Decorations and Their Meanings
Painting of Two Pandas: This artwork may hold a humorous connection to Harry's appearance on Jimmy Fallon's Tonight Show in September 2024. During a Halloween segment, the prince mistook a woman with white makeup and black rings around her eyes for a panda, leading to a startled reaction. The painting could be a playful gift from Fallon or a lighthearted jab from Meghan, commemorating that memorable moment.
Model Helicopter: Reflecting Harry's passion for aviation and his military service, the mini helicopter replica pays tribute to his time as an Apache helicopter pilot. He served in Afghanistan in 2012, providing helicopter support, and has often credited his military career with helping him cope with personal challenges, describing it as a healing experience that gave him purpose.
Ergonomic Office Chair and Footstool: Harry's choice of a grey ergonomic chair with a footstool likely addresses his history of back injuries, including a notable fall from a horse during a polo match in 2015. This practical furniture selection underscores his attention to comfort and well-being amid an active lifestyle.
'Papa' Poster: A heartwarming print with the word 'Papa' highlights Harry's role as a father to Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. This decoration, possibly a gift from his family, emphasises his deep affection for his children, whom he has publicly described as the joy of his life.
Miscellaneous Artwork: The office features several art pieces, including a blue image in a golden frame and a red floral card. Harry's appreciation for art is well-documented, notably when he gifted Meghan a painting titled 'Everybody Needs Somebody To Love' by British artist Van Donna in 2016, showcasing his romantic and artistic side.
Military Tributes and Personal Touches
Military Badges: Displayed proudly on a cabinet are Ukrainian Armed Forces unit badges and chevrons, gifts from Team Ukraine during the Invictus Games in Vancouver in February 2025. These badges, including those from the Marine Corps and Air Assault Forces, symbolise Harry's steadfast support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, a cause he has vocally championed.
White Furniture and Dark Brown Desk: The office's design aligns with the Sussexes' airy Montecito home, featuring white storage drawers and a granite-style shelf. The dark brown desk provides a striking contrast, adding depth to the otherwise light-coloured space.
Mia the Beagle: The presence of Mia, rescued from an animal testing centre in 2022, adds a familial warmth. She sleeps in a wooden dog bed that once belonged to the couple's late beagle, Guy, blending nostalgia with current family life.
Meghan's Influence and Shared Moments
As Ever Chocolate: The video's centrepiece, Meghan's As Ever chocolate bar, represents her entrepreneurial venture and the couple's shared moments. Harry's enthusiastic reaction—saying 'yes please' and 'love you'—showcases their affectionate dynamic. The chocolate, created with chocolatier Jonathan Grahm, features flavours like raspberry spread and flower sprinkles, reflecting Meghan's brand ethos.
Candles and Diffuser: Large wooden candleholders and a dark grey diffuser on the desk complement the décor, with candles also being part of Meghan's As Ever product line, indicating a blend of personal and commercial elements in their home life.
This intimate glimpse into Prince Harry's 'man cave' not only reveals his personal tastes and memories but also highlights the couple's collaborative and loving relationship, set against the backdrop of their life in Montecito.
