4 Sweet Ways Harry Had Meghan’s Back During Their First UK Appearance Together in Nottingham

Nottingham holds a special place in Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s love story. It was where they made their first official appearance together as an engaged couple in 2017, and nearly nine years later, they’re back in the same city for another joint outing.

Throughout the outing, the Duke stuck by his wife's side. Since the move, Harry has been busy with solo appearances, including the Invictus Spirit Awards in September and the WellChild Awards later that month. Meanwhile, Markle has kept a low profile in the UK, and this Nottingham visit makes it her first public engagement here since returning. A friend close to the Duchess said, “She's up for it. There are still causes, and there are still issues that Meghan is really passionate about supporting, and Nottingham is one of those.”

Harry and Markle were all smiles as they walked hand in hand through Nottingham, greeting the crowds gathered to see them. The Duchess looked elegant in a burgundy outfit, while Harry held on to her hand throughout as they made their way through the well-wishers. It’s a small but sweet gesture, especially given how much scrutiny Markle has faced in the UK over the years. She had kept a relatively low profile since moving back, with reports suggesting that public appearances will remain rare. Having Harry’s steady presence by her side must surely have been reassuring!

As Markle leaned in to pose for a photo with a well-wisher, Harry put an arm around her shoulders, smiling as he stood close behind her. The two looked happy and relaxed as they stopped to meet supporters and pose for pictures. It was an adorable moment, especially as Markle returned to public engagements in the UK after more than four years away. Harry stayed close throughout, not letting his wife face the overwhelming crowd alone.

Markle was seen looking up at Harry, turning to him for support and strength. The couple shared several sweet moments, thoroughly enjoying each other's company. Harry has often spoken openly about how much Markle means to him, and moments like this offer a glimpse of that affection going both ways. Even with so many people around them, she seemed focused on Harry, giving us a lovely little reminder of the romance that has always been part of their story.

As Markle stopped to hug people in the crowd, Harry stayed right beside her, keeping a hand on her as she greeted the well-wishers. Even as she leaned in to hug supporters, he remained close, almost as if keeping an eye on her. The Duke has spoken openly about his fears for Markle’s safety, and in a written witness statement presented at the High Court in December 2023, he said, “I cannot put my wife in danger like that.” He had explained why he was reluctant to bring his family to the UK without adequate security. The issue is still ongoing. In September 2026, RAVEC agreed to review the couple’s security arrangements following their return to Britain, bringing the question of their protection back into focus.