Charles Spencer Reveals Details of Prince Harry and Family’s Visit to Althorp House
Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and their children, Archie and Lilibet, visited the United Kingdom in July, staying at Althorp House in Northamptonshire with Charles Spencer. The visit, which occurred prior to the family’s move to the UK, included the children playing on the historic estate where the late Princess Diana grew up and where her resting place is located.
The details of the summer stay emerged as Earl Charles Spencer appeared on the British television program Lorraine on ITV to promote his newly released book, Swan Song: Diana, My Sister, which launched on September 22. During the interview, the author shared personal reflections on hosting his nephew and grand-nephew and grand-niece at the ancestral property.
Reflections on Althorp House and Family
Charles Spencer described the experience of watching five-year-old Lilibet and seven-year-old Archie run across the grounds of the Northamptonshire estate. The property holds deep historical resonance as the childhood home of Princess Diana, who died in a car crash in Paris in August 1997.
Reflecting on the visit, the earl expressed mixed emotions during his television appearance, stating that seeing the children play brought a sense of sadness regarding what might have been. He remarked on how Princess Diana would have interacted with her grandchildren, suggesting she would have spoiled them extensively as a grandmother.
Photographs shared by Meghan Markle on social media in late July documented aspects of the family’s summer break in the UK. One image featured Prince Harry walking with Archie and Lilibet across the estate, while another highlighted Lilibet playing in the gardens.
Addressing Media Commentary and Memoir Context
During his interview on ITV, Charles Spencer addressed commentary surrounding his work, including remarks from former tabloid editor Piers Morgan suggesting the publication intended to damage the reputation of the royal family.
Rejecting those characterizations, the earl clarified his intent behind the memoir. He stated that telling the complete story of Princess Diana required placing certain events into proper context, specifically referencing historical tensions surrounding funeral arrangements and public statements made after her death in 1997. He emphasized that the book serves as a tribute to his sister rather than a deliberate critique of other family members.