Palace confirms more Prince Harry & Meghan Markle news
The Palace has confirmed Meghan Markle will be celebrating Christmas Day with the Queen, alongside her fiancé Prince Harry and his fellow royal family at Sandringham.
While her invitation was widely speculated, a Kensington Palace spokesman confirmed the US actress will be spending time with her future in-laws for the traditional gathering.
Overnight the spokesman said, “You can expect to see The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince Harry and Ms Markle at Sandringham on Christmas Day."
Reportedly, Meghan’s appearance will be a departure from royal protocol as previously, only partners of royals have been invited to the gathering after they have officially married.
Last month, royal watcher Richard Fitzwilliams told Express.co.uk, “In 2010, Kate was not invited after her engagement to William nor was Mike Tindall after his to Zara Phillips."
“Only spouses and close family are usually invited.
“However Harry and Meghan will be living together at Nottingham Cottage at Kensington Palace and her family are in the United States.
“The monarchy relies heavily on precedent and tradition but it also makes its own.”
William, Kate and their kids Prince George and Princess Charlotte will also be attending Sandringham this year after spending Christmas with the Middletons in 2016.
Other expected guests include Harry’s dad Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.
Every year, the Queen hosts a Christmas gathering at her Norfolk retreat which includes presents and games.
On Christmas morning, the royal family all attend a service at St Mary Magdalene Church on the estate.
Harry and Meghan announced their engagement last month after dating for a year.
Harry joked it was “unbelievable” that a ginger like him had managed to find himself such a beautiful fiancée.