Prince Harry has 'denied' claims that he is preventing this King Charles of giving his grandson, Prince Archie, a unique birthday gift worth approximately £18,000. A source close to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex has refuted allegations that the couple is against the King's proposed gift for their son. who turned five on Monday.
Royal author Tom Quinn says King Charles suggested he give Archie a shepherd's hut playhouse, complete with bunk beds and bookshelves. He noted that the monarch had previously donated a similar hut Prince Georgeand wanted to do the same for Archie, showing equal affection for all five of his grandchildren.
However, Quinn claims that Meghan Markle wants Archie to associate his birthdays with American traditions, as he regularly asks about his British hometown Royal family. The author said Archie, who is sixth in line to the British throne, is fascinated by the idea of his grandfather living in a castle, and Meghan fears a similarly lavish gift could further spark his interest in his royal heritage.
These claims have been dismissed by a source close to the Sussexes, as told by Mr Quinn the mirror: “Charles also suggested that he get Archie a playhouse, not a plastic playhouse for children, but a beautiful handmade shepherd's hut, complete with bunk beds and bookshelves. Charles hates the idea that Harry might think he prefers one grandchild over the other , and he has already given Prince George a similar cabin, which reportedly cost a whopping £18,000.”
He added: “He would like to give Archie something similar, but knows Meghan and Harry are against it. Meghan wants Archie to associate his birthday with all things American, because Archie is already constantly asking about his royal family in Britain.”
“Archie loves the idea of his grandad living in a castle and Meghan fears a beautiful shepherd's hut or similarly extravagant gift will only increase Archie's growing interest in his royal connections.”
The comments come as the author said Charles will make a sweet gesture today to mark Archie's fifth birthday.
The youngster has only met his grandfather a few times, with his parents Meghan and Harry locked in a bitter feud with the royal family. However, it is believed that Charles is “desperate” to change things.
Mr Quinn claimed the monarch will contact his youngest son, Harry, so he can wish Archie a happy birthday. Quinn also claimed that the king has discussed the idea of video calling his son and grandson.
He added: “King Charles doesn't like new technology but is keen to keep in touch with his grandchildren on the other side of the Atlantic, so he will be sure to call Harry and wish Archie a happy birthday. Charles has asked about video calling, but according to Harry, if he makes a regular phone call it means he can have a quick chat with Archie without having to talk to Meghan, a prospect that fills him with dread.'
Archie and his sister, Princess Lilibet, have hardly spent any time in Britain. Despite being born in Britain, Archie moved to the US with his parents when he was just a year old. The young royals have only flown to Britain once: for Queen Elizabeth's stunning platinum jubilee.
Express.co.uk has contacted Buckingham Palace for comment.