First Joint Engagement Since Return
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will carry out their first joint engagement since returning to the UK in August. The couple is set to visit Nottingham, the city where they made their first joint appearance after announcing their engagement in 2017. The visit signals their “determination to be viewed as public figures,” the report said, despite King Charles III’s recent assertion that they should be treated as “private citizens.”
Charity Projects and Public Role
Their return to the UK follows a bitter royal family feud, with the couple having left Britain in 2020. Although they have since rebuilt ties with Charles, they remain estranged from Prince William.
Pub Visit Highlights Casual Approach
Harry and Meghan were spotted at a Cotswolds pub, The Falkland Arms, on Thursday. The couple held hands during their visit, marking their first public appearance together since returning to the UK. Meghan dined on gluten-free beer-battered haddock, while Harry opted for a chicken, ham, and leek pie, according to The Sun. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s Great Tew Estate remains in the family, though they now live in the UK.
Security Concerns and School Issues
A spokesman for the Sussexes called the behavior “extraordinarily reckless,” citing concerns over privacy. Archie and Lilibet attended a $35K-a-year prep school for only two days before leaving due to security issues, as reported by Page Six. The couple’s personal phone number was leaked after joining a WhatsApp group for parents of the school, and paparazzi have scoped out their new school, prompting criticism. “It’s concerning that members of the European paparazzi appear unwilling to respect the privacy of children at school,” the spokesman said. Last week, Harry confirmed his kids “are happy in school” in an interview with CTV.
Christmas Plans and Royal Traditions
Harry and Meghan plan to return to the US for Christmas, with a friend stating they “know they’re not going to be invited” to the royal family’s Sandringham gathering. The royal family traditionally celebrates at the king’s estate during the holiday.
Local Interactions and Public Perception
At The Falkland Arms, staff and customers described Harry and Meghan as “locals,” with a pub insider noting, “Everyone here gets the royal treatment— it doesn’t matter who you are.”
FAQ
Why are Harry and Meghan in the UK now?
The couple returned to the UK in August after living in California, though they plan to return to the US for Christmas. Their move follows years of tension with the royal family, though they have rebuilt some relationships with King Charles III.
What issues have arisen with their children’s schooling?
Archie and Lilibet attended a high-cost prep school for two days before leaving due to security concerns. Their personal phone number was leaked, and paparazzi have been spotted near the school, prompting criticism from the couple’s spokesperson.
How does the royal family view their public role?
King Charles III has stated that Harry and Meghan should be treated as “private citizens” rather than public figures. Their recent engagement in Nottingham contradicts this stance, highlighting their efforts to reengage with public duties.
Did You Know?
Harry wore a Santa Barbara fire department baseball cap during their pub visit, a nod to their former home in Montecito, California.
Critique of Rural Nostalgia
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex do own a black Labrador, though it was not with them on their lunch date.
Keep reading