Do Harry and Meghan deserve the backlash over their boozy trip?

As news broke of the royal couple’s celeb-studded party trip to Amsterdam last week, critics accuse them of “dumbing down” the monarchy

She only married S Prince Harry in May, but Meghan Markle hasn’t had the easiest time since their nuptials – mainly due to public outbursts from the former actress’ half-sister Samantha and her father Thomas.

But last week, the pair faced a fresh backlash after it was revealed that they had attended a secret boozy weekend in Amsterdam, alongside celebs including radio host Nick Grimshaw and fashion designer Henry Holland.

Insiders claim the pair were invited by Soho House boss Nick Jones to enjoy two boozy parties to celebrate the new luxury private members’ club in the Netherlands – where they enjoyed red wine, lobster spaghetti and tiramisu.

Meghan’s friend Markus Anderson – who is thought to have introduced the then-suits star to Harry in 2016 – was spotted chatting and laughing with the pair over dinner, with A-listers including actors Jenna Coleman, Eddie Redmayne and Jamie Dornan also sharing conversations with the royals.

And social media users were quick to criticise the pair for their trip, with one commenting, “I hate the celebrity/reality show aspect of the royals. It feels like we are supporting the Kardashians,” while another added, “Gosh, the dumbing-down of the British Monarchy seems to be in full flow. Extraordinary to watch.” A third wrote, “All funded by the hardpressed British taxpayer.”

Here, two insiders give their views…