Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, a well-known interior designer and Cotswolds resident, has issued a frank message to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle amid growing rumours that the couple might make the Cotswolds their new home. The area, known for its celebrity residents including Jeremy Clarkson, Beyoncé, and the Beckhams, is said to be the Sussexes' potential next destination.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, with their children Archie and Lilibet, arrived at Birmingham Airport on Wednesday just before midday, arriving from California on a private aircraft. This move signals a significant change after six years in the United States following their withdrawal from senior royal duties in 2020.
Speaking exclusively to the Express, Llewelyn-Bowen pointed out that Birmingham Airport is the nearest major airport to the Cotswolds, lending weight to the reports about their possible move to the area. He described the Cotswolds as having two distinct sides: the more glamorous “schmancy” part and a more relaxed, down-to-earth area where he lives with his family.
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If the couple chooses to settle in his neighbourhood, Llewelyn-Bowen has specific advice, particularly for the Duchess. He observed, “It is going to be interesting to see how the Duchess fits in because, unlike the other side of the Cotswolds, we’re much less impressed by celebrity, which is why actually a lot of celebrities who are kind of very good at being themselves are drawn to our side.”
He referenced Prince Harry’s aunt, Princess Anne, as an example of someone who blends seamlessly into the community, with locals scarcely noticing her when she visits the nearby railway station. “They like the fact that it’s a lot more straightforward,” he added.
While reports suggest some local residents have expressed concerns about the royals potentially settling in the area, Llewelyn-Bowen believes Prince Harry may be received more warmly than Meghan because of his historical ties to the region.
He cautioned Meghan about the strong-willed local women, saying, “I think she’s going to need to be very genuine. The Cotswold folk can really smell when people aren’t being who they are.”
He advised that the Duchess should avoid putting on airs if she hopes to integrate, especially when attending school gates with the children. “I wouldn’t want to take them on or upset them,” he said. “Unlike in Montecito, they don’t have the celebrity safety net like they did with the likes of Oprah Winfrey.”
Despite his warnings, Llewelyn-Bowen expressed that he would be happy to welcome the Sussex family and even assist with their interior décor needs. “We will welcome them with open arms into the Llewelyn-Bowen Pattern Emporium if they need some help with curtains or cushions or whatever,” he said, “but I’m not entirely sure we’re ever going to be Meghan’s cup of tea.”