The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have shared charming footage depicting their family enjoying life outdoors in the UK after their recent relocation to the Cotswolds. Posted on Instagram, the videos feature the couple and their children partaking in quintessential country activities such as fishing, splashing in puddles and leisurely countryside walks.
Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet appear happily engaged in the scenes, set to the upbeat rhythm of Wham!’s “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go.” The video is accompanied by a Union Flag and a red heart emoji, highlighting the family’s connection to their British roots.
In the initial clip, Harry and Meghan stroll hand in hand, with the Duchess encouraging the person filming to follow along. Other scenes show one of the children sitting beside a roaring fireplace, while Lilibet rides a bicycle fitted with training wheels, sporting wellington boots and accompanied by a doll seated on the back. Archie, also in his wellies, is seen dashing past his sister.
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Fishing activities are also included, with Harry joining the children by the water. Following their relocation from the United States just over two weeks ago, Archie, aged seven, and Lilibet, five, have commenced the new school term in Britain.
A source close to the family told People magazine, “They are happy to be back.” This move marks a significant change after Harry and Meghan stepped away from their roles within the working monarchy six years ago to seek more personal and financial freedom in the US.
The insider added, “Settling the children has been, and remains, their focus. Everything else will fall into place when the time is right. There is a lot to do. They have just moved halfway across the world and it’s been really busy getting the kids settled. Their focus has been on that, and will remain on that, for the time being. They are happy to be back.”
These comments provide a glimpse into the Sussexes’ perspective amidst reported growing tensions between their camp and the royal household. Notably, Harry and Meghan were reportedly surprised by a formal letter from the Lord Chamberlain, on behalf of the King, which addressed senior government and military stakeholders, describing them as “private citizens.” The couple, who are awaiting decisions on taxpayer-funded security arrangements, are said to prefer being referred to as “public figures.”