The royal landscape is set for a significant shift as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle prepare to return to the United Kingdom with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. This move, which will begin this month, marks a notable change in the family’s lifestyle since they stepped back from royal duties in 2026.
The decision comes as a surprise to many, including members of the royal family. Prince William, in particular, was reportedly blindsided by the announcement. The news was first revealed in the U.S. media, which has raised eyebrows among royal insiders who believe the announcement should have come from the palace.
The Sussex Family’s New Chapter in Britain
The entire Sussex family will be relocating to the UK for an extended period. Prince Archie, 7, and Princess Lilibet, 5, are set to start school in England this coming September. The family’s new home and the children’s school are being kept private for security reasons.
The couple will maintain their homes in Montecito, California, and Portugal while establishing a private, non-royal base in Britain. This will be their first UK home since they gave up the lease on Frogmore Cottage in 2026. King Charles was informed of the couple’s plans on August 16 and has expressed his willingness to see more of the family in a private capacity.
Security Concerns and Legal Battles
The move follows years of public tension over the Sussexes’ security in Britain. Prince Harry lost his automatic taxpayer-funded police protection after stepping down as a working royal in 2026. This led to a lengthy legal battle over the security arrangements provided during his UK visits. In, the Court of Appeal upheld the bespoke, case-by-case security arrangements established for his visits to Britain.
Despite the legal setbacks, Prince Harry has continued to press the government for a fresh risk assessment. He believes that the security picture has improved enough to base Meghan and the children in the UK again. A spokesperson for the couple declined to comment on security matters.
Rebuilding Relationships and Royal Duties
The Sussex family’s move comes weeks after they visited the UK for the first time in over four years. The family met with King Charles and Queen Camilla at Highgrove House and also visited Althorp House, the childhood home of the late Princess Diana.
Prince Harry has expressed a desire for his children to spend time in British schools. He raised the subject last September with singer Joss Stone, who had recently moved her own family back to the UK from Nashville, Tennessee. While Prince Harry has worked to rebuild ties with his father, his relationship with his brother, Prince William, remains unchanged.
The couple’s move to the UK does not indicate a return to royal duties. They will continue to live as private, non-working members of the royal family. Prince Harry is expected to spend more time supporting British charities such as WellChild and the Invictus Games, while Meghan will continue to lead her lifestyle brand, As Ever, from their international bases.
