The Duchess of Cambridge calls the engagement "exciting news" and a "really happy time" for the Prince and his American fiancee.

The Duchess of Cambridge said she and Prince William are 'absolutely thrilled' at Harry and Meghan's engagement
Video: Duchess 'absolutely thrilled' over engagement

The Duchess of Cambridge has said she is "absolutely thrilled" at the "exciting news" of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's engagement.

The couple announced on Monday that they are to wed after a 16-month romance. More details about Harry's wedding to his American fiancee are set to be released later.

On a visit to a London museum, the Duchess, who is pregnant with her third child, said: "William and I are absolutely thrilled.

"It's such exciting news. It's a really happy time for any couple and we wish them all the best and hope they enjoy this happy moment."

:: Meghan Markle: It was an immediate 'yes' to Prince Harry proposal
:: The Church, the dress, the ring...

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are engaged to be married
Video: Harry and Meghan's relationship - in their words

The Duchess of Cornwall said "America's loss is our gain".

"We are all absolutely delighted," Camilla said, speaking during a visit with the Prince of Wales to Stoke-on-Trent.

"As you can see, they are so happy."

A March or May wedding date is thought to be most likely, given the number of Royal events next year.

April is not considered the best month as that is when the Duchess is expected to give birth and the Queen is occupied with the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

:: Prince Harry's 'romantic' proposal to Meghan Markle
:: The joy of getting to know Meghan Markle

Prince Harry poses with Meghan Markle in the Sunken Garden of Kensington Palace
Video: Meghan shows off the ring Harry designed

The wedding venue for the church service could also be confirmed, with St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle thought suitable.

A smaller venue, it is considered appropriate for the Prince, the fifth-in-line to the throne.

However, the couple may go for a full-scale fairy tale ceremony instead and choose Westminster Abbey, where William and Kate wed, or St Paul's Cathedral, where Harry's parents married.

More top stories