As they prepared for their fairytale wedding, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle reportedly made a special request: to move into Windsor Castle itself.
But this wish was politely but firmly declined by Harry's grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, according to the British Mirror.
Sources suggest that the soon-to-be-wed couple inquired if space could be made for them in the castle's private apartments after their wedding. Only the Queen and Prince Philip had private suites in the castle, while other family members resided in separate properties on the grounds.
Instead, the Queen offered them Frogmore Cottage, a charming residence located on the castle’s estate.
"It was a great gesture on the Queen's part," Lady Elizabeth Anson previously explained. "She gave up some of her private properties to ensure Harry and Meghan had a home close to the castle."
Frogmore Cottage, with its 10 rooms and idyllic setting, became the couple’s first home as newlyweds. It was there that they welcomed their first child, Archie, in 2019, before relocating to California in 2020.
The Queen reportedly felt that Windsor Castle was not a suitable residence for a young family. Historian Hugo Vickers has commented that, even if rooms had been available in the castle, accommodating the couple there would have been impractical.
While Frogmore Cottage served as a temporary base, the Sussexes’ choice of residence—and their evolving relationship with the royal family—has frequently made headlines.
Today, it seems unlikely that Harry and Meghan will return to the royal fold, especially during Christmas, as the so-called "Great Split" continues to cast its shadow.
