Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who have been residing in the US since stepping back from royal duties last year, may be planning a return to the UK for Christmas.
There is growing speculation that the couple might reunite with the royal family during the festive season, particularly to spend time with the Queen.
However, if they do decide to join in the holiday celebrations, it is unlikely that they will be staying under the same roof as Prince William and Kate, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
The past year has been eventful for the Sussexes, with their bombshell revelations about their time as working royals during an interview with Oprah Winfrey.
This potential UK visit could offer them a chance to reconnect with their extended family amidst the backdrop of global festivities.
Like many families worldwide, the royals are expected to come together for Christmas, especially after the limitations imposed last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Should Prince Harry and Meghan choose to partake in the royal Christmas traditions, it is anticipated that they will find accommodation at Sandringham, the Queen’s residence in Norfolk.
The estate boasts 30 rooms and is likely to host various senior members of the royal family along with their loved ones during the holiday season.
In contrast, the Cambridges have their own residence nearby and are not expected to stay at Sandringham.
Previously, Prince Harry and Meghan lived at Frogmore Cottage in Windsor, which has now become the residence of Harry’s cousin Princess Eugenie, her husband Jack Brooksbank, and their son August.
Meanwhile, Prince William, Kate, and their three children have their home, gifted by the Queen after their marriage in 2011.
The property underwent significant renovations before they moved in, providing ample space for their growing family.
The Cambridges’ Georgian property, dating back to 1802, offers luxury amenities such as ten bedrooms, a swimming pool, and a private tennis court.
Despite spending less time there due to their children’s schooling in London, they often retreat to the countryside during school breaks.
The two royal couples were last seen together at a Christmas Day church service in Sandringham back in 2018, presenting a united front amidst rumors of a rift.
A potential Christmas gathering this year holds special significance as it may mark the Queen’s first meeting with Lilibet, Harry and Meghan’s daughter born in June.
Lilibet Diana, named in honor of both the Queen and Harry’s late mother, is the monarch’s eleventh great-grandchild.
Speculations are rife that the Sussexes might attend, alongside other non-working royals like Zara Tindall, to commemorate the Queen’s upcoming Platinum Jubilee.
Having been away from Britain as a family since 2019, Harry and Meghan have established their home in California with their children Archie and Lilibet.
Despite Harry’s solo visits to the UK for his grandfather’s funeral and to unveil a statue of Princess Diana, this potential Christmas reunion could mark a significant moment for the family.
Recently, the couple made a joint public appearance in New York, advocating for vaccine equity at Global Citizen Live event.