Prince Harry is set to arrive in London this week for a five-day visit without his wife Meghan Markle or their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, according to sources familiar with the plans.
The Duke of Sussex had initially intended to bring his family to the UK to mark the one-year countdown to the Invictus Games in Birmingham. However, it is now understood that Meghan and the children will not accompany him on this trip.
Security concerns remain unresolved
The decision comes amid ongoing security disputes. Reports indicate that Harry was awaiting a review by the Risk Management Board (RMB), part of the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (Ravec), which rules on his security requirements. A request for police protection during the visit is said to have been denied.
It remains unclear whether Harry and his family will stay at a royal residence outside London or if they will meet with King Charles during the visit. The Duke's security status has been a contentious issue since he stepped back from royal duties in 2020.
Invictus Games countdown
The primary purpose of Harry's trip is to promote the Invictus Games, which will be held in Birmingham next year. The event, founded by Harry in 2014, supports wounded, injured, or sick armed services personnel and veterans. The one-year countdown will be marked with various events and engagements.
According to a source close to the Duke, "Harry is committed to the Invictus Games and wants to ensure its success, but the security situation for his family remains a priority."
Uncertainty over family meetings
It is not known if Meghan, Archie, and Lilibet will join Harry later in the trip for visits outside the capital. The Duke's five-day itinerary includes engagements in London and possibly other locations, but no official schedule has been released.
The lack of clarity extends to potential meetings with the Royal Family. King Charles is reportedly open to seeing his son, but no plans have been confirmed. The strained relationship between Harry and other family members has been widely reported since the release of his memoir, Spare.
This visit marks Harry's first solo trip to the UK since the coronation of King Charles in May 2023, where he also attended without Meghan.
