Prince Harry and Meghan have not visited Balmoral for years, and a reunion there this summer is uncertain. Royal expert Jennie Bond said the family is still taking 'baby steps' toward reconciliation.
Highgrove Reunion a Glimmer of Hope
Last month, King Charles was reunited with his grandchildren, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, at his country home Highgrove. It was the first time in four years that Charles had seen them in person, interpreted as a sign of thawing relations.
Jennie Bond on Balmoral Visit Chances
Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond told the Mirror: "I think it’s still a question of baby steps as far as the reconciliation between the King and the Sussexes goes." She added: "Everyone is still waiting to see whether the privacy of the recent reunion at Highgrove will be honoured. So far, so good – no leaked details, no rumours of any photos being made public. And it needs to remain that way."
Bond said she cannot see Harry and Meghan being invited when Prince William and his family are there, and other family members would need to be consulted. She described Balmoral as "almost a sacred place for the royal family" where they feel off-duty and relaxed.
Harry's Fond Memories of Balmoral
Harry has written about Balmoral in his book Spare, calling it "paradise." Bond noted: "Harry himself has written about how special Balmoral is." Sources close to Harry have said he is keen to introduce his children to his Scottish heritage.
Bond concluded: "I think it’s unlikely that we will see Harry and his family at Balmoral this year. But if the baby steps keep on coming, Harry might get his wish to show his children the wonders of this magical Scottish castle."
