Royal commentator Kinsey Schofield has suggested that the Cotswolds could be an attractive location for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle as they consider spending more time in the UK.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Schofield said Harry has a strong connection to the area and is familiar with its roads, pubs and local community, where he still has friends.
He also suggested that the Cotswolds could appeal to Meghan because of its wealthy international community, including a number of affluent Americans who have homes in the region.
Meghan recently returned to the UK with the couple’s children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, joining Harry during his week of Invictus Games-related engagements.
During the visit, the Sussexes also took their children to Highgrove, where they met King Charles for the first time in four years. The family also spent time with relatives connected to Harry’s late mother, Princess Diana.
The visit has fuelled speculation that Harry and Meghan could eventually establish a more permanent base in Britain. Their trip also included time in Portugal, where the couple have a home.
According to reports, the Sussexes’ possible return would not involve a restoration of their former working royal roles. Harry and Meghan are expected to remain private citizens and non-working members of the Royal Family.
King Charles was reportedly informed about the couple’s plans only days before the news became public, although the monarch is understood to welcome the possibility of spending more private time with his son and grandchildren.
However, their return could further complicate Harry’s already strained relationship with his brother, Prince William.
Former BBC royal correspondent Peter Hunt suggested that Harry and Meghan’s return could create the possibility of what he described as “two rival courts” surrounding the brothers.
He argued that Harry’s presence in Britain could strengthen his relationship with his father while also making reconciliation with William more difficult to avoid.
The couple’s decision is also expected to generate debate among the British public, particularly given the criticism Harry and Meghan have directed at the Royal Family and the monarchy since stepping down as senior working royals in 2020.
Recent polling has indicated that Meghan continues to face a largely negative public perception in Britain, while Harry also records more unfavourable than favourable ratings.
With speculation growing around their future plans, the possibility of Harry and Meghan spending more time in the UK could mark a significant new chapter in their relationship with the Royal Family.
