Prince William and Princess Kate’s upcoming trip to Scotland will coincide with Prince Harry’s return to the UK, ruling out a reunion between the estranged royal relatives.
The Prince and Princess of Wales are heading north to Scotland on January 21 for official engagements, a journey that will place them hundreds of miles from London precisely as Harry arrives in the capital.
The Duke of Sussex, 41, is returning to Britain next week for the commencement of his High Court trial against Associated Newspapers, publisher of the Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday.
William, 43, and Kate, 44, who hold the titles Duke and Duchess of Rothesay in Scotland, will carry out their duties in Stirling while their estranged relative pursues his legal battle in the English courts.
Prince Harry reunion with William and Kate ruled out as Waleses confirmed to leave London
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Harry’s lawsuit forms part of a broader legal action that includes several high-profile claimants, among them pop star Elton John, actress Elizabeth Hurley, and Sadie Frost, the former wife of Jude Law.
The group alleges that Associated Newspapers engaged in illegal information-gathering practices, a claim the publisher has “vigorously” denied.
The 41-year-old duke is anticipated to spend much of the week in court proceedings.
A meeting between Harry and his father, King Charles, appears unlikely during this visit, as the monarch typically avoids involvement with active legal cases.
Prince Harry arriving at the High Court on a previous occasion
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The father-and-son duo last met in person at Clarence House in September, ending an 18-month gap.
The Waleses’ Scottish itinerary will begin at the National Curling Academy in Stirling, meeting members of Great Britain’s Olympic and Paralympic curling squads.
The visit comes ahead of the Winter Olympic Games and Winter Paralympic Games, both scheduled to take place in Italy during February and March.
The engagement reflects the royal couple’s continued focus on supporting British athletes as they prepare for international competition.
Kate and William will be heading up to Scotland for a brief trip
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Prince William and Princess Kate’s love story began in Scotland | PA
William and Kate made their first official appearance of 2026 last week, and this Scottish trip marks another significant outing as they maintain their programme of royal duties throughout the new year.
Following their engagement at the curling facility, the Prince and Princess of Wales will make their way to Radical Weavers, also located in Stirling.
The organisation operates as both a working handweaving studio and a charitable enterprise, where visitors can discover the heritage of Scottish tartan whilst benefiting from the therapeutic aspects of the craft.
Participants at the studio create blankets and textiles that are subsequently donated to people in need, combining traditional skills with community support.
The Scottish visit will highlight how classic heritage traditions continue to unite communities and inspire younger generations, according to Kensington Palace.