The couple, who have lived in California since 2020 after stepping back from their roles as senior working royals, are expected to settle in a private residence outside London. Their return could mark a significant new chapter for the family, particularly as their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, are expected to begin at a British school in September.
Harry and Meghan stepped back from their royal duties in 2020, saying they wanted to become financially independent and spend more time away from the pressures of life as senior royals. Their decision came amid growing tensions over media coverage, privacy and their position within the Royal Family. They later settled in California, where they have lived for more than six years.
The latest move has reportedly surprised members of the Royal Family. King Charles was informed about the plans last weekend and is said to welcome the opportunity to spend more private time with his son and grandchildren.
Royal commentator Robert Hardman summed up the surprise surrounding the news, telling BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “Surprise is an understatement.” He added that the Sussexes “have always been very good at delivering surprises”.
Hardman also highlighted the importance of Archie and Lilibet starting school in Britain, saying it suggested the children would be raised as “British rather than American”.
There are no plans for Harry or Meghan to return as working royals. They will remain private individuals.
The news comes after Harry’s visit to the UK in July, when he met his father at the King’s Highgrove home in Gloucestershire. The meeting was described by the Palace as a private family occasion and was reportedly the first time the King had seen Archie and Lilibet in person for more than four years.
However, the return also raises questions about security. Harry has previously expressed concerns about bringing his wife and children to Britain and lost a legal challenge over the level of protection provided to him after he stepped down as a working royal.
It remains unclear what security arrangements will be in place when the family moves back. Hardman suggested some security issues may have been resolved, although details of the arrangements and who will pay for them remain unknown.
The Sussexes have not yet publicly commented on their plans.
Their return is likely to attract considerable interest in Britain and beyond, particularly because of the couple’s complicated relationship with the Royal Family and the British press. For their young children, meanwhile, the move could mark the beginning of a new chapter as they experience life and education in the country where their father was born.
Leave a Reply