King Charles has been reunited with his grandchildren Archie and Lilibet after the Duke and Duchess of Sussex visited the head of state at his Highgrove country home, it is understood. The King welcomed Meghan and Harry's children to his Gloucestershire estate during the afternoon, ending days of speculation about whether the family gathering would take place.
First Meeting Since Platinum Jubilee
Archie, seven, and Lilibet, five, last saw their grandfather in person during Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee celebrations in 2022. It is understood the Queen, who has a private residence near to the King's Gloucestershire estate, was also present at the reunion.
The encounter between Charles and the young prince and princess is likely to be viewed as an indication of improving relations between the King and his son Harry. The two were estranged for some time, particularly after Harry publicly criticised his father, stepmother Camilla, brother the Prince of Wales and sister-in-law Kate in his Oprah interview, Netflix documentary, subsequent interviews and his autobiography Spare, following his departure from the working monarchy six years ago.
Rift with William Continues
His rift with William continues and shows no sign of healing, with the family reunion occurring during the same afternoon William was participating in a charity polo match at Windsor. In February 2024, Harry made a transatlantic journey from his Californian home to Britain to see his father following his cancer diagnosis, which may have marked the initial steps towards a reconciliation between the pair.
Invictus Games and Security Concerns
Harry had intended to bring his family to the UK during a week-long series of engagements championing charities and organisations dear to him, including the Invictus Games, which he established. Security concerns had prevented Meghan and the children from travelling alongside him on Monday, but it appears those safety worries were sufficiently resolved to allow the visit to Highgrove to go ahead.
