Meghan Markle Spotted at U.K. Pub with Longtime Friends Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi

The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, was spotted enjoying a leisurely afternoon with close friends in Oxfordshire on Monday, September 21, while her husband, Prince Harry, attended the WellChild Awards in London. The outing featured Markle alongside Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi, both longstanding friends and previous neighbours from their time in Montecito, California.

Photographed at The Three Horseshoes, a charming 18th-century pub near Burford, the trio appeared relaxed as they gathered for what is likely a much-needed social event. This public appearance comes nearly a month after the Sussex family relocated back to the UK for an extended period, marking a significant transition for the couple and their two children, Archie, aged 7, and Lilibet, aged 5.

Though Markle has not yet attended an official public engagement since the family’s return on August 26, it is noteworthy that she was sighted shortly after their arrival at Soho Farmhouse in Oxfordshire. An insider previously conveyed to PEOPLE that the Duchess is eager to embrace her new life in Britain and plans to be more visible in the coming weeks.

As Prince Harry took to the stage at the WellChild Awards, he continued his dedication to charitable efforts, making this one of several public appearances since their return. The couple’s focus during this transition appears to be on ensuring a smooth adjustment for their children, who are experiencing schooling in the UK for the first time. Reports indicate the children switched schools shortly after two days due to issues surrounding safety and logistics in their commute.

Meghan and Harry’s friendship with DeGeneres and de Rossi extends across the Atlantic; the couples have maintained a close relationship since their time together in Montecito. Meghan famously appeared on The Ellen DeGeneres Show in November 2021, which further solidified their bond. Following their own move to the Cotswolds in late 2024, DeGeneres expressed to the BBC that their reason for leaving California stemmed from the political climate, specifically the re-election of Donald Trump.

In addition to their public appearances, the former talk show host has shared sentiments about the English countryside, remarking on how much joy her wife, de Rossi, experiences being able to engage with horses amidst the picturesque landscape. Real estate sources previously suggested that the couple could see themselves splitting their time between California and England, especially as de Rossi is known to have a deep passion for equestrian activities.

Prince Harry’s decision to return to the UK has been described as a long-standing consideration of his. Sources close to him have indicated that he feels a strong desire for his children to connect with their British heritage and understand the environment in which he was raised. Meghan, with roots in California, shares the sentiment, believing it benefits Archie and Lilibet to experience both sides of their family backgrounds.

While Prince Harry has been active in several charitable events recently, including the spectacular Invictus Spirit Gala Dinner and the WellChild Awards, Meghan has plans to continue managing her lifestyle brand, The Tig, and directing the couple’s philanthropic efforts through Archewell. Furthermore, industry insiders have hinted that she may be contemplating a return to acting, with discussions regarding a possible role in the third season of the Netflix drama, The Gentlemen, emerging shortly after their UK return.

In summary, as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex acclimatise to life in Britain, their social outings and charitable engagements seem to indicate a commitment to balancing their public duties with family life. Meghan’s latest gathering at the pub reflects her efforts to reconnect with friends while transitioning into this new chapter. As the couple continues to navigate their dual existence between the UK and the US, they express hope that their children will benefit from experiencing the rich culture and heritage of both their parents.