Summary (tl;dr)

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have returned to the United Kingdom with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, for an extended period, marking their first alleged return after six years of living in the United States. This move comes as their children are set to begin school in Britain this September.

Essential Background

In 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stepped down as senior working members of the British Royal Family, a decision widely dubbed "Megxit." They subsequently relocated to California, citing intense scrutiny from the British media, alleged racism, and bullying from within the royal institution as key reasons for their departure. During this period, their relationship with the Royal Family, particularly Prince William, became strained, and Prince Harry also lost his entitlement to automatic police protection in the UK. Their time in the US saw them pursue various media ventures, including a best-selling memoir for Harry, though their Spotify deal ended and Meghan's Netflix show was not renewed for a third season.

The Full Story

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, along with Prince Archie, 7, and Princess Lilibet, 5, arrived in the United Kingdom on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, landing at Birmingham Airport on a private charter flight from California. They are reportedly planning to settle in a private, non-royal residence outside of London, with some media reports suggesting the affluent Cotswolds region as a potential location. Their children are enrolled in British schools and are expected to start classes in September. It is understood that Harry and Meghan will not resume their roles as working royals and will continue as private citizens, while also retaining their home in Montecito, California, and a vacation home in Portugal. King Charles III was reportedly informed of their plans the Sunday prior to their public announcement and is said to welcome the opportunity to see more of his son and grandchildren in a private capacity.

Why It Matters

This extended return to the UK is significant as it marks a potential new chapter for the Sussexes after years of living abroad and public criticisms of the monarchy and British press. While some view it as an opportunity for reconciliation with King Charles III, particularly given an apparent improvement in their relationship, Prince Harry's relationship with Prince William reportedly remains strained. The move has also reignited discussions surrounding the couple's security arrangements, with some arguing that British taxpayers should fund their protection despite their non-working royal status. Local residents in potential settlement areas like the Cotswolds have reportedly expressed concerns about the couple's arrival, anticipating increased visitor numbers and potential disruption. Meghan Markle's immediate focus is reportedly on settling the children into their new environment and schools, though rumors about a return to acting have been largely dismissed by industry sources.

Geographic Location

• Van Nuys Airport, Los Angeles, California, United States (departure point of private flight)
• Birmingham Airport, Birmingham, West Midlands, England, United Kingdom (arrival point of private flight)
• Cotswolds, England, United Kingdom (reported potential residential area)
• Montecito, Santa Barbara County, California, United States (retained primary residence)