The Queen told Harry he will 'always be welcomed back' to the royal family

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle caused shockwaves across the globe at the beginning of the year when they announced that they would be stepping back as senior royals. The couple intends to become financially independent from the monarchy and they have spent the majority of 2020 in Canada with their young son, baby Archie Harrison.

Harry is currently in the UK and Meghan is expected to join him later this week for their final royal engagement, when they will attend a Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey. Following the event, the Sussexes are expected to head back to Canada where they are 'enjoying the quiet life', and they are rumoured to be looking at homes in Los Angeles, too.

Now, it has been reported that Queen Elizabeth II has told her grandson that he will be welcomed back should he wish to return to royal life in the future.

According to The Sun, the Queen told Harry: 'You are much loved and will always be welcomed back.'

A source said: 'The Queen had a lot to talk to Harry about and this was the ideal time for them to both say their peace.

'When Harry and Meghan announced they wanted to quit it all happened very quickly and it was very stressful for all concerned.

'Sunday was the first time the Queen has had the chance to talk to Harry on his own and really find out what his plans are. It was a much more relaxed environment and they were both able to speak their mind.'

The insider claims that the Queen spoke to Harry about his future for four hours, confirming that the Sussexes would be welcomed back 'if they change their minds'.

They added: 'It’s fair to say she is very upset about him and Meghan leaving and she would love to see more of Archie, as would Prince Charles and the rest of the family.

'But she accepts at the moment that his mind is made up and he intends to live in North America.'

It is unclear whether Harry and Meghan will stay overseas permanently, but fans are looking forward to seeing them together in the UK in just a few days time.