As Prince Harry and Meghan Markle face mounting speculation that they could be settling in one of England’s celebrity hotspots, a famous resident shared some advice for the couple
The couple arrived in the UK earlier this week(Image: Getty Images)
Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen has issued a warning to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle should they become his new neighbours in England’s famous Cotswolds. Widespread speculation suggests the Duke and Duchess of Sussex could be relocating to the celebrity hotspot, where notable residents include Jeremy Clarkson, Beyoncé and the Beckhams.
Harry, Meghan and their two children, Archie and Lilibet, arrived in the UK via private aircraft from California shortly before midday on Wednesday, touching down at Birmingham Airport. Their significant change of direction follows six years of residing in the US, after stepping away from their senior royal responsibilities in 2020.
In an exclusive conversation with the Express, Laurence, best known for his Changing Rooms series on the BBC, highlighted that Birmingham Airport serves as the nearest major airport to the Cotswolds, strengthening speculation about their potential new location.
The interior designer claims that Cotswolds has two distinct areas; the “Schmancy” side and the more relaxed area where he resides with his family. Should Harry and Meghan choose the same neighbourhood, he has particular advice for the Duchess.
He said: “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 like very good at being themselves are drawn to our side.”
He cited Prince Harry’s aunt, Princess Anne, as an example, suggesting nobody takes particular notice when she’s spotted at the local train station. “You know, they like the fact that actually it’s a lot more straightforward,” he added.
Residents have reportedly made their displeasure known regarding the prospect of the royals relocating to the area, though Laurence believes Harry will find a warmer reception than Meghan owing to his longstanding connections with the region.
“I think she’s going to need to be very genuine,” he warned. “I think that’s the big moment here, is that the Cotswold folk can really sniff b******t, you know, they can really sniff when people aren’t being who they are.”
He also cautioned Meghan about the “really very steely females” he claims will give her short shrift should she disregard his counsel.
“So I think the Duchess is going to need to not be too much about the airs and graces if she’s going to be picking the kids up from the school gates,” he added. “I wouldn’t want to take them [other Cotswold mums] on, I wouldn’t want to p**s them off, I can tell you now.”
He added: “Unlike in Montecito, they don’t have the celebrity safety net, [like they did with the likes of] Oprah Winfrey.”
Reflecting on the possibility of the couple settling nearby, Laurence said he would extend a warm welcome to the family of four and would gladly assist with their interior décor.
“We will welcome them with open arms into the Llewelyn Bowen Pattern Emporium if they need some help with some curtains or cushions or whatever, but I’m not entirely sure we’re ever going to be Meghan’s cup of tea,” he added.
