PRINCE Harry and Meghan Markle’s royal visit today was every bit as special as anticipated.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s first time in the county since they wed in May proved extremely popular, especially among thousands of Brighton royalists.

They began lining the streets around the Royal Pavilion and its gardens in the morning, waiting to see the celebrity couple in all their majesty.

Harry, 34, and American wife Meghan, 37, were met with a roaring reception as they arrived in central Brighton at 2pm.

They strolled down a flank each and greeted adoring fans, many of whom came with flowers and cards for the royals.

Harry, looking dapper in a grey suit and his top button undone, charmed his way through the crowd with his endearing smile and natural charm, taking the time to engage with people in the sunshine.

Former actress Meghan stunned her fans in her dark green Hugo Boss skirt and shirt from And Other Stories teamed with nude suede stilettos.

She removed her camel Armani coat she had been wearing earlier on in her visit in Chichester and Bognor.

After the ten-minute stroll the couple passed through the India Gate and into the Pavilion grounds, where they were met by lucky youngsters from Queen’s Park Primary School.

Harry and Meghan spent time with the euphoric pupils who were only told on Tuesday they would be playing a part in the big day.

Harry asked the children what they wanted to be when they grew up and who their favourite teachers were, and was met with answers of “fireman” and “policeman” as the most common responses.

Eight-year-old Katla Beatrice Brooks could not contain her excitement after seeing the Duke and Duchess.

Katla did not sleep on Tuesday after hearing the news the royals were coming to the city.

She said: “They’re amazing and really cool. I was super excited when we were told they were coming after school.”

Harry and Meghan were taken for a tour round the Pavilion, seeing the banquet room in which Harry joked about the task of cleaning the high ceiling.

They also visited the newly-restored saloon, which Meghan described as “really special”. The couple were gifted a scarf made from the same material as the saloon’s magnificent carpet.