Prince Harry 'will return to US two hours after Coronation ends for Archie's birthday'

Prince Harry is planning to return to the US just two hours after his father's Coronation ends next week so that he can celebrate his son Archie's birthday with his family.

The Duke of Sussex is travelling to the UK on his own after it was confirmed that his wife Meghan Markle will not join him in London.

An insider claimed Harry will be "in and out of the UK in 24 hours" and that he will leave after the Coronation service at Westminster Abbey.

The ceremony is expected to end at 1pm so it is believed that the Duke could head to the airport straight after, possibly leaving the country at around 2pm or 3pm.

Meghan will remain in the US while Harry attends the Coronation (Getty Images)

Harry's travel plans have not been made public but a source believes he might return to California by private jet, The Sun reports.

Last year, when Harry and Meghan travelled to the UK for the Platinum Jubilee they landed at and departed from Farnborough Airport in Hampshire.

Earlier this month, a royal source told The Mirror: "After much back and forth, Harry said that he would be returning for the King's Coronation but it will only be a fleeting visit.

"Organisers have been told Harry won't be attending the concert with the rest of the Royal Family, which is a great shame as it will be such a spectacular event."

After Harry confirmed he would attend the Coronation on May 6, an insider said King Charles was "delighted".

Archie is turning four on May 6 - the same day as the Coronation (POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

The source said: "The King has previously spoken of loving both his sons and that remains the case.

"Harry would have deeply regretted not attending the ceremony.

"Archie's birthday has provided the perfect excuse for Meghan to stay behind and, with all things considered, it's probably the right thing to do."

The Coronation will be Harry's first appearance in a public setting with Charles, Camilla, William and Kate since he criticised them in his memoir, Spare, which was published in January.

A royal source said it was "fully expected" that Harry would stay at Frogmore Cottage, which he and Meghan were ordered to vacate earlier this year, while he is here as the King had granted him a reprieve until after the Coronation.