A fresh setback for Prince Harry has emerged after Buckingham Palace confirmed it has withdrawn its invitation for him to stay at a royal residence during his upcoming visit to London. Just hours after his team announced he had accepted an offer to stay at the palace, officials clarified that the invitation was no longer valid. ‘The invitation has been withdrawn,’ a Palace spokesperson stated, according to the BBC.
What Happened?
Royal sources confirmed that Prince Harry — formally the Duke of Sussex — had indeed been offered accommodation in a royal property during his time in the UK capital. However, they added that he did not formally respond to the invitation by the stipulated deadline — the end of last week. As a result, the offer was rescinded over the weekend.
PALACE officials explained that hosting a guest at a royal residence requires significant advance planning, including staff coordination from the Royal Household and implementation of security protocols. Without timely confirmation, such arrangements cannot proceed.
Harry’s Team Calls Development ‘Disappointing’
A spokesperson for Prince Harry said they were informed — contrary to their earlier announcement — that the invitation had been withdrawn. His inner circle described the reversal as ‘disappointing’, suggesting a shift in stance from the Palace.
Why Is He Visiting the UK?
Prince Harry is travelling to the UK to prepare for next year’s Invictus Games, which will be held in Birmingham. He will also attend a series of charitable events. During his time in Birmingham, he is expected to visit the city’s children’s hospital and the National Exhibition Centre — the venue for the Games.
Traveling Alone — No Meghan or Children
According to current reports, Harry will travel to London unaccompanied. His wife, Meghan Markle, and their two children — seven-year-old Archie and five-year-old Lilibet — will not join him. This follows the UK government’s confirmation that the family is no longer eligible for taxpayer-funded police protection while in the country.
That said, it remains possible that Meghan and the children could meet Harry later in the week in Birmingham as part of the Invictus Games-related activities.
Will King Charles See His Grandchildren?
It remains unclear whether King Charles will meet his grandchildren during this trip. The monarch has not seen Archie or Lilibet in person for four years — a fact frequently highlighted in British media coverage of the royal family.
Visit to Princess Diana’s Grave Expected
British media reports also indicate that Prince Harry is likely to pay a private visit to his mother Princess Diana’s grave during his stay.