Harry and Meghan retreat to Canada for 'private family time'

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have retreated to Canada for "private family time" as the couple enjoy a six-week break from royal duties.

The news comes after weeks of speculation about where the Sussexes would spend Christmas, following the announcement that they would not join the royal family at Sandringham this year.

Now it has been confirmed that the pair travelled to Canada last month with their young son, Archie, and have been quietly enjoying time there as a family.

"Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are spending private family time in Canada," Buckingham Palace confirmed in a statement to Daily Mail UK.

"The decision to base themselves in Canada reflects the importance of this Commonwealth country to them both."

Canada holds a special place in Meghan's heart, as she lived and worked there for several years while starring in the American TV drama Suits.

She lived in Toronto for seven years, sparking speculation that she and Harry may have chosen the city for their Christmas holiday this year, though their location has not been revealed.

At just seven-months-old, Archie is now expected celebrate his first Christmas in Canada, Harry and Meghan reportedly looking forward to the milestone.

"They are enjoying sharing the warmth of the Canadian people and the beauty of the landscape with their young son," a spokesperson for the couple said.

Meghan's mother, Doria Ragland, has also reportedly travelled from her LA home to visit the couple in Canada and will spend Christmas there with theme.

Though there was speculation that Harry and Meghan would travel to the US for their six-week break, it is believed that the pair would be afforded more privacy in Canada.

Buckingham Palace added that no further details would be released about the Sussexes' visit for "security reasons" and has asked that the couple's privacy is respected during their holiday.

Meanwhile, back in England, the rest of the royal family are gearing up for traditional Christmas celebrations at Sandringham, the Queen travelling to her home there ahead of the festivities.