Earlier this evening, Buckingham Palace announced that The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will not be spending Christmas with The Queen at Sandringham this year.
The Royal Family usually join The Queen at Sandringham for Christmas (Bigstock)
We found out earlier this year that Prince Harry and Meghan were planning to take a break from royal duties in the wake of their revealing Africa tour documentary, explaining they were struggling with life in the spotlight.
A statement from a spokesman from the couple said: “The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are looking forward to extended family time towards the end of this month. Having spent the last two Christmases at Sandringham.
“Their Royal Highnesses will spend the holiday this year, as a new family, with the Duchess’ mother Doria Ragland. This decision is in line with precedent set previously by other members of the Royal Family, and has the support of Her Majesty The Queen.”
Meghan Markle and her mother, Doria Ragland, arriving at Cliveden House Hotel the night before her wedding to Prince Harry. Picture by i-Images / Pool
Of course, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have previously spent Christmases away from Norfolk, with the Middletons; they last did this in 2016.
Other members of the extended family have also done this, including Zara and Mike Tindall.
Our thoughts: While the Palace haven’t confirmed *where* the couple will be this December, the USA seems to make the most sense.
Meghan is yet to spend more than a few days back in America since joining the Royal Family, and as far as we know, Archie has only spent a short time with his grandmother. Heading to the US, which will be celebrating Thanksgiving in a few weeks’ time, and where the Duchess has friends, makes this a likely choice for the couple.
