Prince William and Kate Middleton seen at Balmoral as Prince Harry and Meghan prepare UK return
The Prince and Princess of Wales were photographed at the royal estate in Scotland while Prince Harry and Meghan Markle plan to move back to Britain later this month.
Prince William and Kate Middleton were photographed driving at Balmoral, the Scottish residence of King Charles, on Friday morning, according to images obtained by a British tabloid. The couple was seen alongside other members of the royal family, including Prince Edward, Mike Tindall, Zara Tindall and Princess Anne, outside the estate.
Sources confirmed that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle intend to return to the United Kingdom at the end of the month for an extended period with their children, Archie, 7, and Lilibet, 5, who will be enrolled in school there. A palace source said the move had been communicated to the royal household.
The decision follows recent discussions about the Sussexes' desire to be closer to King Charles and to allow their children to develop family relationships. The monarch, who is undergoing treatment for cancer, was reportedly informed of the plan shortly before it became public.
The Prince and Princess of Wales have not issued a public comment on the upcoming relocation.
"It’s a huge slap in the face for William, and it does also create serious risks for the monarchy," royal reporter Tom Sykes told Page Six. "There is a suspicion within Prince William’s orbit that Harry and Meghan understand the clock is ticking and want to re-establish their position, influence, and proximity to the monarchy while Charles is still King," insider Kinsey Schofield said.
The move is expected to add complexities to the line of succession and the dynamics within the royal family.