Prince Harry planning a ‘lads holiday’ for 40th without Meghan Markle

Prince Harry is reportedly gearing up for a big birthday bash with his "closest mates" - and it seems Meghan Markle won't be joining the festivities. As the Prince gears up to celebrate the big 4-0, whispers are swirling that he's planning a lads-only trip this weekend, leaving Meghan behind at their Montecito home in California with little Archie, aged five, and three year old Lilibet.

Word on the street is that this boys' adventure will follow a family birthday do at their stateside pad. It's been two years since Harry and Meghan sent shockwaves through the Royal establishment by leaving their Royal roles and jetting off to the US.

Despite Harry recently gushing that his kids are the "best gifts" he could ask for, rumour has it he's not totally convinced by American life away from the UK, the Mirror reports.

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A mate of the Sussexes told The Sun: "Harry is feeling more and more isolated in California, which is why he has been reconnecting with old friends back home. The Colombia trip also really highlighted how Meghan is comfortable stepping into the spotlight, while Harry cuts a very sulky, unhappy figure in the background. He wants to carve out a way back into Royal life back in the UK and is seeking counsel from old friends and associates."

Rumours are swirling that Prince Harry is seeking advice on a possible return to the UK and the Royal Family, although some insiders are challenging the idea. It has been reported that Harry has been reaching out to former aides in the UK for guidance, expressing dissatisfaction with the Hollywood representatives he and Meghan have employed since their move to America, reports the Express US.

During their public engagements in Nigeria in May and Colombia in August, Meghan shone brightly, leading Royal commentators to muse that the 43 year old mother of two appears more at ease in her self-crafted role. Meghan reportedly feels "unwanted" in the UK and dreads an anxiety-inducing trip back to England.

At the Invictus Games 10th Anniversary Service at St Paul's Cathedral on May 8, Harry appeared solo after Meghan allegedly had second thoughts about joining him with their children, Archie and Lilibet, citing security worries. Harry is said to have pleaded with Meghan, saying: "I don't want to do this alone."

The Duke is apparently tired of visiting the UK by himself and, according to a source, "He would prefer it if the entire family made regular visits to see his family and build bridges, but there is so much going on behind the scenes that it just isn't possible at the moment."

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