The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are set to return to the United Kingdom after spending several years in California. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who have resided in the United States since 2020, will relocate with their two children, Prince Archie, aged seven, and Princess Lilibet, aged five. Reports indicate that the children will begin attending school in the U.K. following the family’s move.
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While the couple prepares for this significant transition, they will maintain their residence in California, as well as a holiday home in Portugal. Their primary residence in California is a nine-bedroom mansion in Montecito, which they purchased for approximately £11 million. This affluent area is known for its celebrity inhabitants, including the likes of Oprah Winfrey and Ellen DeGeneres.
Meghan and Harry first moved to California shortly after stepping back from their royal duties. Initially, they stayed at the estate of filmmaker Tyler Perry in Los Angeles, relying on the safe haven as they navigated the COVID-19 pandemic and the changes in their personal lives. The purchase of their Montecito property came shortly after this period of transition.
Reflecting on their new home, Meghan recalled how Prince Harry was drawn to the two palm trees on the property during their initial tour, remarking that their connection at the base symbolised their relationship. The family has shared a glimpse into their Californian lifestyle through social media and their Netflix series, showcasing their domestic life and even their unique chicken coop, affectionately named “Archie’s Chick Inn.”
In addition to their home in California, the Sussexes are believed to have a holiday property in Portugal. This country has become a cherished retreat for the family, allowing their children to have a normal childhood filled with outdoor play and relaxation away from the limelight. Recently, they visited Portugal during a European trip, further indicating their fondness for the region.
Princess Eugenie, a cousin of Prince Harry, also spends time in Portugal with her family, having relocated there part-time since 2022. Her husband’s new job has allowed them to divide their time between the U.K. and Portugal, where they enjoy a low-key lifestyle. Eugenie has shared her enjoyment of the tranquillity that Portugal offers, expressing contentment in being able to conduct mundane activities without the pressure of public scrutiny.
Harry’s connection to the United Kingdom remains strong, despite his endeavours to establish a life in California. An insider has noted that he has “always had one foot” in Britain, revealing that his past remains intertwined with his current life. The return to the U.K. presents an opportunity for the family to reconnect with their roots while balancing their unique circumstances.
As Prince Harry and Meghan embark on this new chapter, the public will undoubtedly be watching closely to see how their return impacts their family dynamics and any ongoing engagements with their royal relations. There remains uncertainty about the specific nature of their living arrangements in the U.K., particularly as they have confirmed that they will not be residing in a royal property.
The announcement of their move back to the U.K. has generated varied reactions. Supporters are excited about the potential for greater involvement in British affairs, while critics remain sceptical about their ongoing relevance to royal life. Regardless, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex appear determined to navigate their return on their own terms.