Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have reportedly moved into a new £10 million home in the Cotswolds, a region known for its picturesque villages and celebrity residents. The couple, along with their children Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, are said to be residing on the estate of a wealthy businessman friend, marking their latest UK base since relocating from California.
The move to the Cotswolds, an area frequented by stars such as the Beckhams, Kate Moss, and Sydney Sweeney, as well as Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi, has sparked discussion about how the Sussexes will be received. Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams suggested that the couple might find themselves out of their depth, stating that while they aspire to be A-listers, they have not achieved that status, referencing their perceived lack of success in Hollywood and media ventures. "No one else is like them though, which is probably just as well," Fitzwilliams commented.
Beyond celebrity circles, the Cotswolds is a popular destination for tourists, with some villages experiencing significant visitor numbers, leading to issues with overtourism. Victoria Summerley, a resident of Bibury, described how the behavior of some tourists has worsened, with litter becoming a notable problem. There is concern that the arrival of the Sussexes could further increase tourism in an already strained area, potentially exacerbating these issues.
Fitzwilliams also expressed skepticism about the local population's reaction, suggesting that residents of the Cotswolds, often described as conservative and supportive of the monarchy, might view the Sussexes unfavorably due to their public perception of having "ruthlessly exploited their royal connections." He predicted that the couple's presence could generate media attention, acting as a draw for additional tourists.
The Sussexes do have a personal history with the Cotswolds. Prince Harry spent time in the region with his brother Prince William at Highgrove, King Charles's private home. The couple also frequented Soho Farmhouse, a luxury retreat in the Cotswolds, in the early days of their relationship. Meghan Markle also had her hen do at the location. Before their 2018 wedding, the pair expressed interest in high-end properties in the area.
The couple's decision to move to the Cotswolds is seen by Fitzwilliams as part of a deliberate strategy, potentially aimed at building connections and establishing a support network. However, how they will integrate with both the local community and the existing celebrity residents, and manage the impact on tourism, remains to be seen.