Earl Spencer, Prince Harry's uncle, was prepared to offer the Duke and Duchess of Sussex a residence at Althorp, the 13,000-acre Spencer family estate in Northamptonshire. However, the Sussexes did not make such a request during a recent family visit, opting instead to identify a property in the Cotswolds as their prospective UK home.
Sources close to Earl Spencer indicated that he would have accommodated a request for housing on the estate. "If Harry had asked his uncle for a property at Althorp, he would have done all he could to find him somewhere suitable," a source told The Mail on Sunday. "But he [Harry] has made his own plans."
Prince Harry has maintained a close relationship with his uncle, Charles Spencer, since his and Meghan Markle's decision in 2020 to step back from senior royal duties. Harry has visited Althorp, Princess Diana's childhood home and burial place, on several occasions in recent years. Last month, the family, including their children Archie and Lilibet, spent time at the estate. Photographs shared by the Duchess of Sussex on Instagram showed the family enjoying activities at Althorp, leading to speculation about a potential move.
It is understood that Earl Spencer was not aware of the Sussexes' imminent return to the UK, reportedly learning of their plans through newspaper reports last Thursday. The source added, "It was known that he [Harry] wanted to come back but it was not known that it was imminent."
Speculation regarding Meghan Markle's activities in the Cotswolds has suggested she may have visited schools in the area. Reports also suggest the couple could be moving into a property owned by a celebrity in the region.
Historically, Earl Spencer offered Diana, Princess of Wales, the use of Wormleighton Manor in Warwickshire following her marriage breakdown, but she declined the offer. Althorp has been the Spencer family seat for over 500 years.