Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, are reportedly making arrangements to return to the United Kingdom with their two children later this month, approximately six years after they stepped back from their roles as senior members of the royal family and established residence in California.
Reports indicate the couple intends to settle in a private home located outside of London. Their children, Prince Archie, aged seven, and Princess Lilibet, aged five, are anticipated to begin attending a British school starting in September.
King Charles III was reportedly informed of the family's impending move on Sunday and is said to welcome the chance for more private time with the Sussex family. Prince William and Catherine, the Princess of Wales, have also been apprised of the decision.
Harry did think that there was a hybrid version that they could do. And I think, in years to come, there will be a hybrid version. I think he's right. There has to be a hybrid version of this where people don't get accused of cashing in but can support their cousins or their brother or whatever.
A commentator noted that the Sussexes initially believed they could maintain a dual role, balancing a business and private life with periods spent in the U.K. supporting the Queen. Prince Harry reportedly felt this option was ultimately denied to him.
Recent Family Reunions and Strained Relations
This development follows a reunion in July between the Sussexes and King Charles at Highgrove House, the monarch's private estate in Gloucestershire. This occasion marked the first time King Charles had seen his grandchildren, Archie and Lilibet, in person in over four years.
Prince Harry and Meghan had not made a joint visit to the U.K. since the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022.
The couple's decision to step away from royal duties in 2020 led them to settle in Montecito, California. Their relationship with the wider royal family has faced increasing strain following public discussions of their grievances, shared in various interviews, their documentary series, and Prince Harry's 2023 memoir, Spare.
Security Concerns Remain a Key Issue
Despite previous challenges, Prince Harry has frequently expressed a wish to reconcile with his family. However, the matter of security has consistently presented a significant point of contention.
The Duke of Sussex pursued a legal challenge in 2025 concerning the level of police protection afforded to him and his family during their stays in the U.K. He has previously stated that safety concerns were a primary reason preventing him from bringing Meghan and their children to Britain.