Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have returned to the United Kingdom for their first extended stay in six years, with widespread speculation suggesting they have chosen a residence in the picturesque Cotswolds. This idyllic South West region, spanning several counties, is known for attracting notable personalities such as Ellen DeGeneres, the Beckhams, and Jeremy Clarkson.
Among potential new neighbours is the well-known celebrity interior designer Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, famous for his appearances on BBC’s Changing Rooms. In an exclusive conversation, Laurence revealed a playful nickname he has given the Duchess of Sussex, referring to her as the “Duchess of Beige” due to her understated aesthetic preferences.
Laurence expressed his welcoming spirit towards the Sussexes, stating he would greet them “with open arms” at his Llewelyn Bowen Pattern Emporium shop should they seek assistance with any home decor needs such as cushions or curtains. However, he suggested that his typically vibrant and colourful design style might be “far too exciting for the Duchess of Beige.”
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He added, “Certainly if she wants to be taken seriously by the ladies of the area, owning a couple of LLB cushions would definitely push her in the right direction.”
Laurence’s wife, Jackie, humourously commented on the practicality of lifestyle changes, noting, “She’s going to really struggle wearing white jeans where we are, it’s very muddy.”
Previously, Laurence had advised the Sussexes that local residents in the Cotswolds can easily detect insincerity, emphasising that Meghan “especially needs to be confident in who she wants to be.”
Views among other local residents vary. While some welcome the famous couple, others have been more blunt, with one resident reportedly telling them to “get lost,” suggesting they could take their celebrity friend Ellen DeGeneres with them.
Since stepping back from senior royal duties in 2020, Harry and Meghan have lived in several locations, including a short stay in Canada and a period in California, USA. Current reports indicate they are currently considering properties in the UK valued at over £10 million.
Meanwhile, King Charles is reportedly hopeful that his son’s return might herald a warming of relations between Harry and his brother, Prince William, signalling potential reconciliation within the royal family.